The word wireless can refer to the data connection, power supply or both. Before choosing a camera, check how it receives power, where it records and what happens when the connection is interrupted. Sentinel5 can help assess those details for your property.
Wired PoE cameras
Power over Ethernet can carry data and power through a compatible network cable between a camera and PoE equipment. This provides a defined connection and avoids relying on WiFi coverage at each camera. Installation needs a suitable cable route, compatible power equipment and enough capacity for all connected devices.
WiFi cameras
A WiFi camera still needs power unless it uses a battery or another local supply. The wireless connection depends on signal, interference and capacity at the actual mounting point. A good connection beside the router does not prove a camera on an outside wall or in a garage will be reliable. Building materials and other wireless traffic can affect performance.
Battery cameras
Battery-powered products can be useful where permanent cabling is impractical. Recording behaviour, wake-up delay, charging needs and available storage vary by model. Check whether the requirement is continuous recording or short event clips. Do not assume every battery camera records continuously or that all recordings remain available during an outage.
Local recording and internet dependence
The data connection and recording destination are separate choices. A local recorder can continue to store footage during a broadband outage if the cameras, network and recorder remain powered and connected. Cloud-dependent functions and offsite viewing need connectivity. Subscription charges and retention limits should be checked for the exact product.
Outbuildings and difficult routes
For detached garages or separate buildings, a survey can compare protected cabling, fibre or a suitable wireless link. The distance, power at the far end and physical route matter. Wireless should be a planned network connection rather than an assumption that the house WiFi reaches everywhere.
Compare the whole installation
Consider installation access, recording behaviour, ongoing charging or subscription needs and how a fault will be diagnosed. A camera that is simple to mount may still create ongoing work. See our home CCTV service and network infrastructure page for help with the complete system.