NETGEAR PoE Switches for IP Surveillance
IP Surveillance
If your business uses any recording equipment to monitor buildings or areas, then having a reliable system is paramount. IP surveillance has entered the scene and with it came some fantastic improvements: high-quality images, fast processing, and easy monitoring.
This is where Netgear’s PoE and PoE+ switches come in. Fast, reliable and easy to install, Netgear’s PoE Switches are a sure-fire way to help boost your IP surveillance network and transfer high amounts of data.
What is IP Surveillance?
IP (Internet Protocol) surveillance is similar to CCTV but uses an internet connection to transfer data, rather than as a voltage. Switching over to IP surveillance can be costly, depending on the size of your network. However, changing to an IP surveillance system or even expanding your existing network is worth it, both short term and long term.
- Easier to use
- Higher image quality
- Can automatically highlight events for easy searching
- Smaller file sizes
- Can connect to existing networks and servers
- Flexible and easy to scale
- Future-proof
- Can set up remote access for all parts of the network
- Easier to power
- Stored and accessed anywhere in the world
- Low barrier to entry for simple setups
What does an IP Surveillance set up consist of?
IP surveillance systems will differ from business to business. Each company will have its own needs, requirements and technology budgets. But there are some common elements to consider.
An obvious point for an IP Surveillance Network. An IP Camera is a video recording device which can send data over the internet. Most of these cameras use PoE connections to power them and transfer data.Some cameras offer features beyond just recording video. Some higher-end cameras can offer two-way audio, which can be used to listen and speak to the subject being recorded. Other cameras can be remotely controlled to track an area. Many can analyse data to automatically detect instances which may be of interest to security management.
Video Servers
Once your cameras have been set up, they will need somewhere to record, aggregate, process, and broadcast video streams. These video servers can allow multiple people to access recordings in real time. But they can also pass the video through to the network.
You will also need a way to monitor your video from your IP Surveillance. This is usually a PC equipped with dedicated surveillance software to enable real-time viewing and review of the stored video.
Network Attached Storage (NAS)
Once you’ve got your video recorded, you’ll need to store it somewhere. For huge IP Surveillance Networks, you may want to use a dedicated server. For smaller surveillance, a NAS device will be perfect.
Netgear ReadyNAS is a fantastic way to store your videos.
You’ll need some PoE Switches to manage the network traffic. When buying your Network Switch, you’ll need to check which features will suit your needs. Make sure your switch has the right bandwidth and features that you need to manage your network.
Netgear have a wide range of PoE and PoE+ Switches that will cover all your IP Surveillance needs.
Cabling
You will need to cable up your network. You will need high-quality Ethernet Cables to ensure your network doesn’t lose any power. We recommend CAT5 cables/wires or above. Aim for the best cable/wires you can afford.
Considerations when building an IP Surveillance network
The Benefits of Deploying PoE
Lower Infrastructure and Installation Costs
Fewer, seperate power adapters are needed and only one cable run is required, rather than two
No Need for Electricians
Uses existing IT networking infastructure
Overcomes hard to wire environments
Including old or ‘protected’ buildings
Centralises Control
Manage power to devices from a centralised switch. Power down/up devices as required for energy and cost savings
Extends Wired and Wireless Network Reach
Not limited to fixed power outlet placements
Reliability
Redundant Power Supply (RPS) backups options helps keep devices running even in the event of a power outage. Important for business critical services, such as IP Telephony based Call Centres.
The Key to a Successful Surveillance Network
Adequate Bandwith
Allow enough bandwidth for high quality footage capture. You’ll need to ensure your network can provide a high enough bandwidth to ensure that high-quality footage can be passed through without causing problems. A strong internet connection, high-quality router and good switch will all help keep bandwidth high.
Resilience
Provide a secondary power source in case of power failure. You don’t want your IP surveillance to drop if the power goes out. Ensure you have a backup plan in case the power goes out. Uninterrupted Power Supplies can help keep you going even when the power is out.
Security
Prevention from digital and physical hacking. You’ll need to ensure your network is secure. Use strong passwords, firewalls and avoid using public WiFi on your network. There are plenty of other factors in Network Security which you should aim to cover.
