For a business owner or facility manager evaluating CCTV for the first time, the terminology alone can be a barrier. This guide breaks down the fundamentals in plain language.
Camera Types
- Dome cameras — discreet, vandal-resistant, common in indoor common areas and retail floors.
- Bullet cameras — a visible deterrent, well suited to perimeters, yards and loading docks.
- Turret cameras — flexible mounting without a dome cover, useful for glare reduction.
- PTZ (pan-tilt-zoom) cameras — can be actively repositioned to track activity across larger areas.
Indoor vs. Outdoor
Outdoor cameras are weather-rated for temperature and moisture exposure, and are often paired with low-light or night-vision capability for after-hours coverage. Indoor cameras are typically optimized for consistent lighting and closer-range detail.
How Recording Works
Most commercial systems use an NVR (network video recorder) that receives video over the network from IP cameras and manages local storage and retention. Depending on the platform, some systems also support cloud-connected recording.
The Network Behind the Cameras
Modern commercial CCTV runs on a PoE (Power over Ethernet) network, which delivers both power and data to each camera over a single cable. This simplifies installation compared to older systems that required separate power and video cabling.
Remote Viewing
Depending on the equipment and network configuration selected, footage can typically be viewed remotely from a desktop or mobile device over a secure connection.
Where to Start
The right combination of camera types, recording setup and network infrastructure depends on your facility. A commercial CCTV assessment from SecXpert will walk through these choices for your specific building.