_There are two different types of IP cameras. These include decentralized IP cameras and centralized IP cameras. Decentralized IP cameras include a network video recorder or NVR functionality that is integrated into the camera and therefore does not require the installation of video management software. The data can thus be recorded directly to network attached storage, flash or SD and hard disk drive. The centralized IP security cameras are mostly used for surveillance purposes and therefore need to be connected to a network video recorder to enable alarm management and the proper recording of the entire video.

IP security cameras or Internet Protocol Cameras are quite different from CCTV or closed circuit television technology. The former enables data transmission through a computer network and are slowly taking over as one of the most popular products in the surveillance market. Their popularity can be attributed to the fact that these offer high resolution images and have therefore given a new dimension to home security systems. 

The advantages of using IP security cameras as part of your wireless property protection strategies are many. In fact these can be broadly classified as flexible image format, increased functionality, cost advantages and extensible network infrastructure. 

Flexible Image Format: 

Enabled to offer digital zoom in case of high resolution megapixel images 

Compatible to different modes of video compression like H.264, Motion JPEG or MPEG-4 Part 2.

Offering support for different image resolutions

Progressive scan options

Selection of particular resolution and frame rates

Increased Functionality: 

Remote maintenance, diagnostics and configuration

You can place the camera anywhere as IP security cameras are wireless

Encryption of audio and video data and camera control data 

Compatible to different compression formats and for streaming media

Can be locked with a password to restrict unauthorized access to the images and tampering with the camera configuration 

Cost Advantages: 

Low costs involved even in case of cabling comparatively larger installations

High image resolution

The IP networking equipment infrastructure ensures that the system has a reduced system cost 

A 1MP camera can cover much more in comparison to an analog camera

Less space requirement for installation

Extensible Network Infrastructure: 

Capable of using power over Ethernet

Commands for tilt, zoom and pan are transmitted through a one network cable

Can be used on legacy coaxial cables along with suitable converters

Can be installed at an already existent IP cabling infrastructure 

Has the ability to utilize fiber optic links with suitable fiber converters 

IP security cameras ensure that the business owners and homeowners can keep a tab on their property and belongings even when they are not physically present. All that is required is a computer or even a 3G phone. Article by Jenny at Inter-Dev SEO Companyon behalf of Visonic Wireless home security