In the world of IP-based video surveillance and closed circuit TV (CCTV), wherever the network reaches, you can also distribute your infrastructure IP cameras or video encoders, network video recorders (NVRs), and workstations.

IP-based video surveillance is similar to regular analog CCTV, but it uses technology and acronyms usually reserved for the IT department. Like traditional CCTV, Internet-based video surveillance requires four key components:

• Image capture
• Image transmission
• Storage
• Video management

There are a number of differences between IP-based and traditional video surveillance.

• Analog cameras and miles of coax cable are replaced by networked IP cameras connected to the Internet.
• VCRs and DVRs are swapped with racks of hard disks, resulting in economies of scale.
• Static security rooms with monitor walls and fixed operator workstations are exchanged with networked keyboards, monitors, and PCs.