How to Install a Security Camera All By Yourself

Knowing how to install a security camera is a good skill, especially if you want to carry out the installation all by yourself. In this article, I will be showing you how to install a CCTV camera step by step, be it a wired or wireless security camera. All that is required from you is to read through this post, and then get all the information you need.

Installing a security camera in your residence or office is always a good idea; this is because of the increased rate of crime in our world today. It gives you assurance and peace of mind knowing your family members, pets, and belongings are secured from intruders at all times. If you are new to CCTV, one of the first things you will need to learn is how to install a security camera.

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The process of installation is dependent on the type of security camera you bought. So, to make it easier for you, I will be showing you how to install different security cameras – both wired and wireless. After reading through this article, you will know if it is actually possible to install them on your own or not.

How to Install a Security Camera

Most security cameras come with an installation manual, which makes the installation process easier. But a task that might be easy for one person can be difficult for the other, depending on their skills and relevant knowledge. Having this in mind, some security cameras are generally easier to install than others.

The factor that plays a major role in the security camera’s installation is the camera’s power source. Security cameras are categorized into two: wired and wireless.

Wired cameras are connected to the internet and powered by a cable. While this enables excellent image and video quality and offers a reliable connection, it makes the installation process a bit difficult.

Wireless cameras are also powered by a cable, but they connect to the internet via a Wi-Fi network. You should have in mind that wireless cameras are not totally wire-free, all it has is just a wireless internet connection. When a wireless camera runs on batteries instead of being plugged into a power source, it is called a wire-free camera. Wireless cameras are easier to install because they only require a power source.

How to Install a Wired Security Camera

As I mentioned earlier, this type of security camera is connected to the internet via wires. Since most of them need to be hardwired into your house, installation can be a little bit complicated. Also, they need to be connected to both the internet and a power source, this limits the areas where they can be installed.

Follow the steps below if you want to install a wired security camera.

• Find a suitable and stable spot on the wall.
• Double-check for existing wiring in the wall. You do not want to drill a hole and damage some of the wires.
• Drill holes. Be careful about their size. The holes should be big enough to fit a wire but not too big to compromise installing the mounting. Some cameras come with a drilling template to ease this process and reduce the possibility of making a mistake.
• Pull the wiring through the wall to connect it to the correct source.
• Connect the end of the cable to the camera. I recommend securing the connection with electrical tape.
• Set up the camera mounting.
• Connect everything together and set up the camera interface.

Except you have all the necessary drilling tools at your disposal, I highly recommend hiring a professional to install the cameras. Once you make any mistake in the process of installation, it could result in serious injuries or damage to your property and wiring. To complete the installation, you will need a wide range of tools of which you may not have some. Purchasing these tools just for installing one camera is an unnecessary expense you can avoid by just hiring a professional.

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How to Install a Wireless Security Camera

Wireless security cameras are not wired into your house, which gives more flexibility in terms of where they can be installed. These types of cameras can be easily installed both inside and outside, and you can even transfer them to different places. With a wireless camera, you do not have to run cables through your walls or climb to your ceiling. The only thing that is needed is a power outlet (that is if you are not using a wire-free camera), and you are good to go.

Below are steps you can follow if you want to install a wireless security camera.

• Find the right spot for your camera. Ensure it is close enough to a power source if the camera does not work on batteries. Plus, be careful that the area you choose has a strong Wi-Fi signal. Otherwise, the camera will often lose connectivity, which affects its functionality.
• Double-check for existing wiring in the wall and drill holes for the mounting.
• Connect the camera to your Wi-Fi network.
• Place the camera onto the mounting.

From the steps I outlined above, you will agree with me that installing a wireless camera is a relatively straightforward process. You do not really need the help of a professional to install this type of camera. But if you feel you do not have what it takes to carry out the installation, then seeking assistance is always advisable.

FAQs on Security Cameras Installation

How Much Will a Professional Charge to Install a Security Camera?

The cost of installing security cameras varies, and it depends on the number and type of camera you want to install. Since wired cameras are more difficult to install, it will cost more. The cost of installing a wired security camera ranges from $150 to $200 to hire a professional. If you have a wireless security camera, hiring a professional will cost you around $100.

You should note that these are the average costs of installing a single camera. The more cameras you have, the more you are expected to spend.

Do I Need a Permit to Install Security Cameras?

in most cases, you do not really need a permit to install security cameras in your home or property. There are a few exceptions, though. If your property is listed, you will need a listing building consent to install security cameras. Moreover, if you want to install a security camera in a rented property, you will need permission from the owner.

The situation becomes more complicated if you are installing security cameras and alarms. In most cities, you will need to obtain an alarm permit. This permit gives you a unique registration number that puts your property on the map for emergency responders. In case the alarm goes off, the number enables the responders to contact you and check on the situation quickly. If you do not have an alarm permit, you will have to pay high fines if there is a false alarm.

Conclusion

Whether you want to monitor your home or ensure no intruders roam around your property, installing security cameras is the way to go. The installation process and fee to hire a professional varies between the two different types. Reading to this point, you must have gotten some important information on how to install a security camera be it wired, or wireless.