I think this is a question that comes to mind when we see a CCTV camera at someone’s house or shop. We wonder how it works and if it needs wifi to record or show video. I had the same question when we were planning to install a camera at our gate. So I started learning about it and now I want to share everything I found in a simple way.
What Are CCTV Cameras
CCTV means closed circuit television. These cameras are used to watch places like homes, shops , schools and offices. They help us see who came when and what happened. We can check the video later if something goes wrong. Some cameras show live video and some just record it.
Do CCTV Cameras Need Wifi
The short answer is no not all CCTV cameras need wifi. But some do. It depends on what kind of camera you are using and how you want it to work.
We installed a camera at our home last year and we were confused too. We thought that every camera needs wifi but that is not true. Some cameras work without wifi and some need it for special features.
Types of CCTV Cameras
There are two main types of CCTV cameras when it comes to wifi
Cameras That Do Not Need Wifi
These cameras record video on a memory card or a DVR. They do not need wifi to work. You can watch the video later by checking the card or the recorder. These are good for places where wifi is not available.
We used this type at our gate. It records everything and we check the video on the screen inside the house. It works fine and we never had any problem.
Cameras That Need Wifi
These cameras are smart cameras. They connect to your phone or computer using wifi. You can watch live video from anywhere. If you are not at home you can still see what is happening. These cameras also send alerts if they see movement.
We tried this type at my uncle’s house. He wanted to see the video on his phone. So we connected the camera to wifi and now he gets alerts when someone comes near the door.
Why Some Cameras Use Wifi
Here are some reasons why wifi is used in CCTV cameras
- To watch live video on phone
- To get alerts when something moves
- To save video on cloud
- To control the camera from far away
If you want these features then you should choose a wifi camera. But if you only want to record video then you do not need wifi.
What Happens If Wifi Stops
I think this is also important to know. What happens if wifi stops working
If your camera does not need wifi then nothing happens. It keeps recording as usual. But if your camera uses wifi then some features may stop. You may not get alerts or live video. But some cameras still record on memory cards even without wifi.
We had a power cut once and wifi stopped. Our camera kept recording and we checked the video later. So it depends on the camera model.
What You Should Know Before Buying
If you are thinking of buying a CCTV camera here are some things you should think about
- Do you have wifi at home
- Do you want to watch video on your phone
- Do you want alerts for movement
- Do you want to save video on cloud
- Is the place busy or quiet
We asked these questions before buying and it helped us choose the right camera.
Are Wifi Cameras Safe
Yes they are safe if you use them the right way. You should set a strong password and keep your wifi secure. That way no one else can see your video. We did the same and never had any issue.
Should You Use Wifi Camera
I think it depends on your needs. If you want to watch video from far or get alerts then yes you should use a wifi camera. But if you only want to record video then a normal camera is enough.
We use both types. One at the gate without wifi and one inside the house with wifi. Both work well for us.
FAQ
Q1. Do all CCTV cameras need wifi?
No. Some cameras work without wifi and record video on a memory card or DVR.
Q2. Can I use CCTV without the internet?
Yes. You can use it to record and watch videos later. But you cannot see live video from afar.
Q3. What happens if wifi stops?
Wifi cameras may stop sending alerts or live video. But some still record on memory cards.
Q4. Are wifi cameras better?
They are better if you want smart features like alerts and remote viewing. But they need the internet.
Q5. Should I buy a wifi camera?
If you want to watch video on your phone or get alerts then yes. Otherwise a normal camera is fine.
Meta Description
I think many people ask if CCTV cameras need wifi to work. In this easy to understand guide we share our own experience and explain how CCTV cameras work with or without wifi and what you should know before buying one.
Final Thoughts
I think CCTV cameras are very useful. They help us feel safe and protect our homes. But we should know how they work before buying one. Not all cameras need wifi. Some work without it and still record everything.
We use both types and they help us in different ways. If you are planning to get a camera I hope this guide helps you choose the right one. Just think about your needs and what features you want. That way you will not be confused and you will get the best result.
