How Do Wireless Security Cameras Work?
Gone are the days of long, obtrusive wires running across floorboards or walls. Many of today’s security cameras are wireless, using Wi-Fi to communicate with a control panel or connected smart device. Wireless security cameras are easier to install, and they give you greater flexibility for placement.
How do wireless cameras work?
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How wireless cameras work
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Wired vs. wireless home security cameras
When security cameras first hit the market, they required a wired electrical source to work. Some multi-camera setups still work this way. These wired cameras rely on video cables to transmit video signals to a viewing device, like a computer monitoring or television.
With a wireless security camera, the video signal—and, with some, the audio signal as well—transmits over the internet or other wireless network to a receiver that connects to your viewing and recording device. Many people use computers or cloud storage accounts to save the video footage for later viewing.
Wireless security camera benefits
As mentioned above, wireless security cameras are easier to install than the wired alternative. Many wired cameras connect to your home’s electrical system, so you’ll need to hire a professional for the installation. Wireless cameras rely on Wi-Fi or other networks. Follow the instructions, and you can set up and connect most cameras in less than 15 minutes.
Wireless security cameras are often more ideal for renters, people new to home security, or those on a budget. Not only are wireless security cameras less expensive than wired systems, but they’re easier to move and transport. Just unplug them, and you’re ready to go!
Wireless security camera limitations
It’s important to note that there are limitations to a wireless security camera’s capabilities:
Battery power
If the camera is completely wireless, it needs a battery for power. In this kind of arrangement, you need to replace or recharge the battery before it dies. Solar cameras also use a solar panel to charge the batteries during the day.
Distance from router or hub
Don't place a wireless camera too far away from the main hub or wireless router. If there’s a direct line of sight, a wireless camera’s range may reach up to 500 feet or more. Within a house, the range is usually lower—around 150 feet—though not always.
The signal range depends on a few factors, including your home’s building materials, other wireless devices in the area, and any walls or objects through which the signal has to pass.
Standard drywall and glass windows may not impact the strength of the camera’s wireless signal, but brick and concrete will. If there are brick walls, concrete floors, and large trees in between the camera and receiver, your signal strength will likely weaken.
Final word
Wireless security cameras are a great addition to your home security system, as they offer you 24/7 viewing access to your home, no matter where in the world you are.
Now, explore the best home security cameras on the market and see which ones can integrate with your home security system.
Compare the best home security systems
| Luxury smart home pick | Reader favorite | Whole-property pick | Pro monitoring pick | No-contract DIY pick | |
| Brand |
 Vivint |
 SimpliSafe |
 Frontpoint |
 ADT |
 Blue by ADT |
| Lowest monitoring price | $29.99/mo. | $14.99/mo. | $49.99/mo. | $27.99/mo. | $19.99/mo. |
| Starter equipment price | $599.00 | $229.00 | $99.00 | $0.00 | $199.15 |
| Contract required |
 No * |
No |
No |
 Yes |
No |
| Installation | Pro | DIY | DIY | Pro | DIY |
Smart home compatibility |
Amazon, Google, Z-Wave |
Amazon, Google | Amazon, Google, Z-Wave |
Amazon, Google, Z-Wave |
Amazon, Google, Z-Wave |
| Learn more | View Packages | View Packages | View Packages | View Packages | View Packages |
| Read review | Read review | Read review | Read review | Read review | Read review |
Info current as of 07/15/2021. Offers and availability may vary by location and are subject to change.
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