There are two security camera systems available: analog and IP (network). Both are designed to record footage continuously but the differences in the way each function will determine which is best for different circumstances.
Analog surveillance systems are the most popular choice among security camera buyers. It consists of cameras connected to a digital video recorder (DVR), which can store the footage on a hard drive to be accessed later.
Advantages
Cost – cheaper than IP systems, especially as you add more cameras.
More installers – analog cameras have been around for decades and are relatively straightforward to install, making it easier to find an installer and vendor.
Simplicity – DVRs are simple to set up and keep running. This system relies on the DVR to do all the work as the cameras merely act as the eyes for it.
Advancements – picture quality and resolution has developed tremendously allowing you to get four or five-megapixel cameras in HD analog.
Disadvantages
Quality – The frame rate is higher on IP cameras than of analog, making it problematic for surveillance in areas with lots of motion or that must be seen in high detail. Images may appear blurry or grainy, and you cannot digitally zoom in. Although, a high frame rate is not necessary for several circumstances and is not a must-have feature.
Less coverage – You may need more analog cameras to cover the same area as one IP.
More cables – IP cameras require one cable while analog needs at least two.
No encryption – A hacker could access your information more easily or replace your signal with an alternate one.
IP security camera systems are different from analog in that each camera acts as its own DVR. Each camera can compress its own video and stream it online. Some even have their own SD slot so it can store video directly on an SD card.
Advantages
Several sensors – Able to cover a larger area with its three to four cameras in one. They go through one signal in one cable only costing you one license as well.
Decreased costs – Like most technology, the price of an IP system has gone down considerably since it was first introduced. Also, you likely need fewer IP cameras to do the same as analog cameras making it a worthwhile investment.
Easy installation – Because an IP camera only needs one wire to connect to a network switch, it requires less time to install. You can also zoom and focus it remotely as long as you have it angles the way you want.
Resolution – You have more options to choose from with IP cameras regarding resolution and aspect ratios depending on your needs.
Analytics – These cameras are like mini-computers that can be programmed to show different analytics. The can detect smoke or motion, count people, track colors, sense if something disappears, and set off alarms. This camera comes with all the bells and whistles.
Security – Transmission is secured with encryption and authentication.
Fewer parts – Analog cameras need an encoder and decoder while IP cameras do not need for that.
Open platform – IP cameras are universal making it easier to add new functions.
