Surveillance System Features

Knowing what surveillance system features to look for will help you choose a security camera solution that is scalable, secure, and up-to-date.

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Surveillance System Features

With the modernization of video surveillance technology in recent years, security camera systems offer increasingly advanced features and cutting-edge capabilities.

A challenge in choosing the right surveillance system for your organization is knowing which security camera features to prioritize. There are seven factors that modern surveillance systems need in order to be secure, efficient, and scalable: intuitive video management system (VMS) software, remote accessibility, low bandwidth consumption, reliable video storage, data security, calculable total cost of ownership, and ease of maintenance.

While every organization has different security needs, understanding these top considerations can help guarantee the staying power and total lifetime value of your company’s surveillance system.

  • Video Management Software (VMS)

    A security camera's video management software (VMS)⁠—also known as its video management system or server⁠—is the control center for recording, storing, and managing surveillance footage. Learn more about what to look for when evaluating solutions.
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  • Secure Remote Access

    With traditional video security, a company would typically set up, manage, and operate its entire surveillance system onsite. Today, these aspects are often handled remotely and secure remote access is the key to it all. Understand what remote management features should be a part of your security solution.
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  • Data Security

    Data breaches are among the biggest cyber-threats for CCTV cameras today, and this makes data security paramount for operating a video surveillance system. Know what features to look for in a protection checklist as you look to purchase and operate cameras you can trust.
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  • Preventative Maintenance

    After setup and installation, every video camera security system requires ongoing maintenance to ensure that it continues to operate optimally. Evaluate the features that can extend the lifespan of your investment, and make preventative maintenance easy and automatic.
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  • Bandwidth Reduction

    Bandwidth availability is a primary concern for any network, and video security systems are not immune. Uncover features that can help reduce the bandwidth requirements for IP cloud, hybrid cloud, 4K, and NVR camera systems.
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  • Total Cost of Ownership

    A surveillance system's total cost of ownership includes upfront line items⁠—like security camera installation⁠—as well as long-term expenses and resource outlays in the years ahead. Know what aspects to look for and questions to ask to protect your investment from hidden costs that aggregate over time.
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  • Video Storage

    From local NVRs and DVRs to unlimited cloud archiving, learn what video storage features to look for — and avoid — to best optimize your surveillance system.
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  • Contact Tracing & Occupancy Management

    Security cameras with built-in features for contact tracing and occupancy management can prevent overcrowding and the spread of COVID-19. Learn more in this guide to video surveillance.
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  • PCI Compliance

    Discover how implementing security cameras can enhance your PCI compliance efforts. Explore the benefits of surveillance technology in safeguarding sensitive data and maintaining a secure business environment.
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  • PoE For Security Systems

    Learn how Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) simplifies the installation and operation of security cameras. Discover the advantages of PoE technology for enhanced surveillance and seamless integration.
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  • PPF (Pixels Per Foot) explained

    Pixels per foot / Pixels per meter is the most fundamental metric for specifying video surveillance image quality. Learn how it is calculated and how it impacts video quality.
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  • Symmetric vs Asymmetric Bandwidth

    Symmetric vs asymmetric bandwidth: a closer look at data transmission. Discover how these two bandwidth types impact your online experience, from speed to stability.
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  • LPR & Advanced Analytics

    Camera positioning and proximity to the subject/object analyzed is critical for advanced analytics, and might differ from a normal deployment for the purpose of regular CCTV coverage.
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  • What is Lens Distortion Correction?

    Lens Distortion Correction (LDC) is a digital image processing technique used for rectifying the distortions introduced by the inherent optical properties of camera lenses. When deploying a security surveillance system, LDC should be enabled to ensure proper undistorted coverage and optimal analytical performance.
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  • External IR illuminators

    External IR illuminators can improve video quality in dark environments by introducing infrared (IR) light. IR-enabled cameras capitalize on IR light to produce detailed images in the absence of visible light, and IR illuminators can enhance visibility across wide areas.
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  • The Exposure Triangle Explained

    The exposure triangle combines all three elements of exposure and shows the relationship between ISO, shutter speed, and aperture.
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  • Asymmetric and Symmetric Encryption

    For any communication of potentially sensitive information, encryption methods are crucial for protecting confidentiality. Learn about encryption methods and why it is crucial for video security.
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