Choosing the Right IP Camera Software

When it comes to IP video surveillance, the IP cameras themselves are only part of the picture. Beyond the physical cameras is the IP camera software you use to monitor and record video. Oftentimes cameras will not come with this software included, and it will be up to you to pick the right software for your needs.
IP Camera Software Features
One of the major things to look at when choosing software for your IP camera software is the features included with that camera. Take some time to think about what exactly you want your software to do. If you want nothing more than for video to be recorded to look at later, then just about any piece of IP software will do. However, if you are looking for something more advanced you will find there are many options.
Many pieces of IP camera software come with a variety of features. For example, oftentimes they come with advanced video analytics such as motion detection, object recognition, even facial recognition. The software can then be programmed to do things such as send out notifications or alerts should an intrusion happen via e-mail, text or other signal. Software can also be programmed to only record, for example, upon motion detection.
Make a list of the things you would like your IP camera software to do, then look for a piece of software that has the features which will make these things happen. This is your first step in choosing the piece of software that is right for your security system.
Give the Software a Try
Like most software these days, it is often possible to download a free demo of IP camera software from a company's web site. Generally these demos will be limited either in features or in the time you are able to use them. Such demos are an excellent way of getting a taste of exactly what the software is like and what it can do.
Gauge the demo software on whether or not it provides the functions you are looking for. Also look at how easy it was to install as well as how easy to use. Every person is different and will find different pieces of software easier or more difficult to use depending on their own skills and expectations.
Perform tests on all the different features that led you to choose this software in the first place. If all goes well in these tests, most likely you have the right piece of software in your hands.
Checking Out the Company and the Software
Before making the final purchase, however, you should try to find out more about the company and the software. Look for reviews of the software as well as of the company itself. You might find that even though the software looks good, there might be hidden problems such as poor technical support, or bugs which don't appear in the system until it has been in use for a little while and are difficult to remove. Reading the opinions of others who have used the software and worked with the company can give you a lot of information on whether or not this is the right piece of IP camera software for you.

By Wes Fernley