When you buy a security camera, there are several factors to consider such as the installation and setup. Before buying a security system for your home or business, here are 4 things you need to know.

1. Type of Camera

Cameras used in surveillance systems may be analog or digital and use different wires and infrastructure than traditional phones and computer networks. Analog cameras will normally require more expertise to install since they generally require more complicated wiring with cables, power supplies, and other devices. Analog video is not digitized which means that at least two analog-to-digital converter boxes (one at each end) must be used with each cable run creating an added cost.

2. Installation

If you are buying security cameras, you need to decide whether to hire an installer. If you do not want the hassle of installing the security system yourself, hiring an experienced camera installation company can be well worth it.

3. Cloud Storage

Cloud storage is different from local storage in that video files are saved in online servers located in data centers rather than directly on the DVR system's hard drive. The benefit of this is that when your business goes offline after hours or when there is an event at night, videos will still remain accessible 24/7 so long as your internet connection remains up and running. Local storage systems will not record anything while the system is unplugged or if there is no power supply regardless of whether the cameras are still operational.

4. Set-Up

Depending upon your needs, you can choose between analog and digital security camera systems which have different features and functionalities. Security camera systems generally require professional installation unless you buy a do-it-yourself (DIY) kit that comes with everything including the necessary tools to get started. However, it is important that you know exactly what type of system you need before going through all of the trouble setting things up yourself. A simple mistake when installing a wireless network storage device for example could end up costing more money than having a professional set it up in the first place.

Before deciding to buy any kind of security system, be sure to research your options thoroughly before committing to anything specific. With this knowledge, you should have more than enough information to make an educated choice about which type of system is right for you whether analog or digital and local storage or cloud-based. Remember, there's no such thing as overkill when it comes to protecting your family or business.