Choose the best approach for securing your clients’ sites. Detailed overview of the differences between wired and wireless security systems (such as Reconeyez).
What is the difference between wired and wireless security cameras?
Wired security cameras use a wired connection to communicate between the cameras and a central server. They are also directly connected to the power grid.
Fully wireless security cameras are not connected to the power grid–they rely on batteries and can be supplemented by solar or other renewable energy sources. They use wireless communication to transmit images.
Pros and cons of wired security cameras
Wired security cameras can easily record and transmit 24/7 high-resolution footage. They are a great option for worksite monitoring, documenting and investigation, and other use cases that require 24/7 footage and exceptional quality video.
While the installation is more complex and costly than for battery-powered cameras, wired security cameras can require less maintenance, especially battery changes. Wired security cameras are a cost-effective solution for long-term sites with stable security needs.
Pros
- Can have very high audio and image quality
- Supports a long distance between any camera and the central
- No Interfering Signals From Competing Devices or Appliances
Cons
- Complex, time-consuming, and expensive to install
- Less scalable and flexible
- Long-term power cuts may lead to the system being unavailable
- Cables can limit camera placement
Pros and cons of fully wireless security cameras
Fully wireless security cameras are well-suited for remote sites with no access to power or WiFi. Battery-powered devices are a great alternative to thousands of meters of cabling that would be needed to deploy wired security cameras. Wireless security cameras often have battery-conservation features in place and can be supplemented by solar panels to minimise the need for maintenance visits.
Another great use case for wireless cameras is for temporary sites. For example, a large proportion of Reconeyez cameras are used to secure construction sites and vacant properties. Easy installation that requires no cabling makes them a great choice when the security needs are constantly changing.
Pros
- Fast and easy to install with low labour costs
- Easy to scale or change layout
- Flexible placement locations
Cons
- Relies on batteries or possibly inconsistent energy sources like solar
- Cameras need to be placed within the signal range of the central hub
- Large data transfers may impact battery life
- Can be susceptible to interference from WiFi systems
Are wireless security systems less reliable than wired security systems?
Wireless security system are just as reliable as a wired security system, when certain precautions are taken.
System disconnects
Wireless security systems run the risk of the system being down if the mobile network connection is dropped or the batteries on the devices die. Reconeyez sends automatic notifications when the batteries are getting low and when mobile connectivity is lost. We also make it easy for you to find the place with the strongest mobile network when installing the devices.
Unlike wireless security systems, wired security systems do not run the risk of downtime during power cuts.
Information security
Our data is encrypted at all times. We also use firewalls and Intrusion Detection Systems to monitor and secure data transmissions. Our devices come pre-configured with device-specific security certificates, making them hack-proof.
Analog CCTV security systems, are hard to intercept without physical access to cabling. But most modern wired security systems use IP cameras, which require an additional security layer, just as wireless security cameras do.
Malicious disruptions
The Reconeyez devices have a tamper alarm, which notifies you if someone attempts to intervene with the detector. The tamper alarms can be automatically linked with our siren to deter thieves in seconds.
Wireless devices are all prone to jamming, but installation methods and directional antennas can lower the risks.
Most wired cameras are connected to some kind of network, making them vulnerable to hacking. Firewalls and VPNs are needed to secure the communication, compared to mobile networks, which are not as easily hackable.
What is Reconeyez?
Reconeyez is the ideal security system for remote outdoor sites with no access to power or WiFi.
Reconeyez was originally developed to protect remote stretches of the NATO border. Our system is designed to be secure and reliable at a low total cost of ownership, and to require minimal human intervention.
What makes us stand out:
- Battery life up to 400 days
- IP67-rated
- HD-quality images
- 35m (115ft) detection distance
- 95% false alarm reduction with world-class AI