Best Locations to Install IP Security Cameras for Your Home

These are the most commonly used type of IP security cameras. They use what is called a fixed lens that offers a wide viewing angle. These cameras must be adjusted manually, therefore they are usually used in fixed positions where changing the camera's view is not required. Fixed lens cameras usually come in two types. The Bullet style is great for homes as they are slightly larger and more noticeable. This gives you added protection because people are more likely to see that you have cameras which will deter most would be criminals. The dome style security camera is slightly smaller and less intrusive which makes it better suited for situations where you don't want your cameras to be as noticeable. It really comes down to a matter of preference as to whether you choose to use a bullet or dome style fixed lens camera.

A Vari-Focal lens security camera is equipped with a motorized lens. This allows the lens itself to move forward allowing you to zoom in without losing any clarity or detail. This can be done remotely using an app on your phone or on the NVR. This way you can adjust the camera's view without having to physically move the camera closer. However, you will still need to manually adjust the camera's view to the left, right, up and down. These cameras are great when attempting to capture license plates as you can zoom the camera in closer and have a better chance of getting a clear image of the plate number. These cameras are also great when you need coverage of an area that is too far away from a suitable mounting surface. Vari-Focal cameras also come in two styles similar to the fixed lens cameras.

PTZ is short for Pan-Tilt-Zoom. These Ip security cameras have the unique ability to change the cameras view remotely using either your phone or the NVR. They can rotate (pan) left or right, tilt up or down as well as zoom in like a vari-focal. This makes them very versatile and easier to install because you can adjust the view anytime without having to physically move the camera. Pan-Tilt-Zoom cameras can also allow you to cover a much larger area because they can be programmed to look at different areas for different amounts of time. This is done by creating what is called a tour. Pan-Tilt-Zoom cameras are a great all-around camera as they can be used in multiple different situations. These cameras usually only come in one style which is the dome pictured above. however, the size and shape of the dome can vary depending on the camera.

Your front door is probably the most beneficial place to install a security camera. This is especially true if you receive a lot of packages. Stealing packages from peoples porches has become a growing problem and installing a security camera at your front door will greatly reduce the chances of this happening to you. Surveillance cameras like those sold by Montavue also have a useful feature called tripwire which can alert you anytime someone approaches your front door. This can allow you to contact law enforcement while a crime is occurring rather than after which will greatly increase the chances of catching the criminal. Installing a security camera at your front door also has the added benefit of being able to see who is ringing your doorbell from anywhere with our Free mobile app MontavueGO. When installing a security camera at your front door make sure not to place the camera too high as this can prevent the camera from capturing a clear images of faces.

Another common area to install security cameras at your home is first floor windows. These are one of the most common ways that burglars enter your home. They are often not locked and many times are secluded from public view. This makes it very easy for a criminal to enter and exit your home undetected. placing security cameras to monitor windows can sometimes be difficult. Sometimes the solution to this is to mount the cameras on a corner of your home looking down the side of the house where your windows are. This will ensure that you have an unobstructed view of any potential criminals. This can also prevent infrared night vision cameras from reflecting off of the glass and blinding the camera. Mounting your cameras this way will also allow you to cover a larger area and possibly more than one window.

Many people tend to store expensive equipment or vehicles in their sheds or garages. Combine this with the fact that these areas are usually not occupied very often it makes them a prime target for thieves. This also makes your garage or shed a great place to install a surveillance camera. You will want to have two cameras in this area if possible. Placing a security camera outside watching any entrances will give you a heads up when a potential criminal approaches your garage or shed. Installing another security camera inside will allow you to have proof of what was stolen if the criminal is not deterred. This can greatly help when filing insurance claims and reporting the crime to your local authorities. 

Probably the most common way criminals enter your home is through your backyard or back door. This is because these areas are usually secluded to offer privacy to you and your family. This means it also offers privacy to criminals and an easy entry and exit to your home without anyone noticing. Try looking for a place that will allow your camera to have the widest unobstructed view of your backyard. If you have a very large backyard you may want to invest in a PTZ camera which will allow you to cover a larger area with a single camera. Look for areas that offer a lot of cover for criminals to hide as they approach your property. If you have a fence look for areas that might be easy to climb over. In addition to preventing criminals from entering your property having an IP security camera installed in your backyard can help you keep an eye on children or capture funny moments when entertaining guests.