Nowadays, driven by social development demands, surveillance is required in an increasing number of scenarios, which keeps pushing up market demand for network cameras. A network camera is a new‑generation device that integrates traditional camera technology with network technology. It transmits video footage across the internet to remote locations. Remote users can view live feeds via a standard web browser (such as Microsoft IE or Netscape) without installing specialized software. What are the main types of network cameras currently available? Below is an introduction compiled by the editorial team of Kaimorui.

There are three primary types of network cameras on the market:

1. Wired Network Cameras

This type only provides video surveillance functions. It resists signal interference and delivers stable and reliable performance. However, wired network cameras involve complicated installation and cabling work. Access is limited to computers, restricting their application scenarios. They are gradually phased out of the market and are no longer suitable for modern households.

2. Wireless Network Cameras

Wireless network cameras feature megapixel high‑definition resolution, PnP plug‑and‑play capability, and multi‑view video monitoring. They support preset position configuration, remote monitoring and video recording via mobile phones, as well as remote arming and disarming on mobile devices. Equipped with motion detection alarm, they can push alert notifications or emails to mobile phones.

The motion detection alarm of wireless network cameras works through built‑in passive infrared sensors. An alarm is triggered when people or objects pass through the detection zone. Even minor disturbances such as wind may activate the infrared sensor, resulting in a high false‑alarm rate and frequent alert notifications. Mid‑to‑high‑end wireless network cameras support guard position and preset position settings as well as auto‑cruise functions. They can be configured with 4 or 8 defense zones and generate alarm notifications pushed to mobile phones. Nevertheless, the specific triggered defense zone cannot be identified, so users cannot tell where the abnormality occurs. In addition, when alerts are sent as SMS messages, users may fail to view and respond to alarms in a timely manner.

3. Wireless Linked‑Alarm Network Cameras

Wireless linked‑alarm network cameras embed the encoding information of FSK‑coded smart home alarm devices — including door contacts, wireless sensors (wireless infrared sensors, wireless smoke sensors, wireless mist sensors) and remote controllers — into the firmware of network cameras. This builds a video‑linked alarm system that realizes both video surveillance and alarm functions. Its motion‑triggered alarm is activated only when anomalies are detected simultaneously by door contacts or sensors.

Compared with other alarm solutions, linked alarms achieve much higher accuracy. The network camera raises an alarm only after receiving alarm signals from door contacts or sensors. The accuracy rate of wireless linked‑alarm network cameras can reach 99%, while that of ordinary network cameras stands at merely 80%. As a new product category, wireless linked‑alarm network cameras are undergoing continuous hardware and software optimization. Further derivative smart‑home product lines are expected to create a safer and more comfortable living environment.

To sum up, these are the three common types of network cameras on the market, each with distinct characteristics. Users may make selections according to their actual requirements.