Do Security Cameras Work If Unplugged? (Explained)

The advantages and need for quality security systems for commercial and residential purposes can’t be overemphasized.

These devices help monitor movements and activities around the vicinity where they’re installed.

Notwithstanding, have you ever wondered what happens if they’re disconnected due to power failure? 

Here is what happens when security cameras are unplugged

Security cameras will basically cease to record when unplugged from the power source. Of course, they continue to work when they’re also powered by backup batteries. Cameras also need to transmit captured video and audio which is over a data cable and/or wireless. In case your camera has both capabilities (batteries and wireless) then they will continue to work even when unplugged.

Incorporating security camera systems is a great way to oversee activities on your property via recorded videos or live footage.

However, this article is for you if you’re concerned about how well your security cameras will function without power or an internet connection.

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What happens if I unplug my security camera?

This will depend on the type of security camera. For example, a low-level camera will cease working until its cable is reconnected. 

Most security cameras save their settings, so they stay intact even when disconnected. Once plugged back to power, the cameras will resume running like they were before the disconnection.

A smarter security camera will forward a notification. This notification can be sent as text, email, or through the camera’s software. The report may also describe the suspected problem, such as video error, power outage, etc. 

There are more sophisticated camera systems that’ll not only notify the owners when an issue arises. These cameras can also send a 15 to 20 seconds video recording captured before the issue occurred. So it all boils down to the specific security camera in use.

However, whenever your security camera is unplugged, you should expect to be sent a warning. If someone intentionally tampered with them, you’d likely catch them approaching, exiting, or in the actual act of tampering.

Can security cameras work without being plugged in?

Security cameras cannot function effectively without an electricity source. However, some systems can keep recording a few minutes after a power outage. 

During installation, the cables of the security cameras are passed through the walls and connected to the power. This is made possible by wiretapping into the previously installed electronic cables inside the wall. The internet device is then linked to the cameras via network cables, and this device also requires electricity to function.

Some security cameras are designed to anticipate possible disconnection from the power source. These cameras have onboard memory and a reserve battery that keeps them on for a while on such occasions. However, they’d eventually go off because their battery’s short life span limits the extra power and recording time.

If you have security cameras with inbuilt memory and reserve battery, you can’t view them when unplugged. You’ll have to wait for these cameras to reconnect when the power is restored before you can access them.

If the system’s memory is detachable, you could remove them and watch the recording on your personal computer. Nonetheless, you should note that removing the system’s memory will impair the security camera’s ability to record. The impairment is temporary until the storage is replaced and CCTV is plugged back in.

Alternative power backup for security systems

A significant deficiency in most security cameras is the absence of a durable backup medium. Therefore, the most effective means to keep your cameras running constantly is to incorporate an additional power source. 

This will provide your property with stable electricity, especially during emergencies. Installing this reserve power source will ensure that the cameras and the entire security system operate optimally.

Another great alternative you should consider is to fix reserve batteries on all security devices. Backup batteries will power up the whole security camera system, so you don’t need an emergency backup generator.

The only challenge with such battery backup alternatives is that they can only sustain the security system for a short duration. This option is less efficient than using a backup generator. 

You’ll have to recharge backup batteries as soon as they run out if you must keep your CCTV system functioning.

Essential commercial facilities like banks and hospitals install high-capacity generators to keep these security cameras connected. In addition, these facilities use UPS devices alongside generators as emergency backups should the generators malfunction at any time. That way, an uninterrupted power supply is guaranteed in any case.

On rare occasions, facilities install similar but more complex power replacement, which is quite expensive to set up.

What to note when choosing your security camera power backup

The complex programming of most security cameras requires incorporating a stable power source around your property. It’s important to provide your facilities or residential apartment with maximum security.

Thankfully, there are excellent options that can help you achieve this without the usual power source. They’ll suffice as an emergency power supply for your CCTV cameras.

Before and during installation, it’s advisable to carefully consider the type of backup power that’s more suitable for your specific setup. 

Some of the most improved power backup systems will require their production company to install them. Unfortunately, local security technicians may not understand some sophisticated features, and you’ll risk installing them wrongly. 

Usually, these companies will recommend their professional technicians to assist with the setup to ensure a smooth setup.

Can wireless cameras work without the internet?

If your security system requires an internet connection to run, it won’t function optimally. Most times, the internet connection is automatically severed when using backup power. The only exception to this is having a more sophisticated backup system available.

That said, some wireless security cameras don’t always need an internet connection to operate. This is because some security camera options record footage internally on hard drives or micro-SD devices for viewing later.

Examples of security camera models that don’t require internet usage are Reolink and Arlo-Go products. These cameras are referred to as IP cameras, although some don’t have a landline or cell phone backup.

When they can’t connect to the internet, they can make do with proficient monitoring teams if accessible. This way, they’re able to react to the slight detection of movement.

Even if your IP cameras don’t have cloud storage features, you save the local storage data in a cloud server. This can come in handy if the hardware device is lost, stolen, or destroyed.

In general, some wireless security cameras can function without the internet, but most models do. Nevertheless, internet-linked security cameras are highly recommended for maximum security.

How to connect your wireless cameras to computers without the internet

It’s possible to watch your recorded footage on the computer in the absence of an internet connection. To achieve this, you’ll need some extra cables and equipment such as a power adapter, router, UTP cables, and ethernet cables.

• Connect your security camera to your PC using the UTP cable.
• Set the IP address of your camera in a similar range as your PC.
• Open your camera’s mobile app or web and input the IP address to see your footage.

Pros of wireless cameras without internet

As with most installations, using wireless security cameras without an internet connection comes with its benefits and perks. Below are some of the advantages of using wireless cameras:

Safe from hacking

The chances of experiencing cyber theft or digital data hacking with wireless security cameras are completely reduced.

No fees attached

Most internet-linked security cameras require you to pay for cloud storage, which could be a monthly or annual payment. Whereas, if they come without cloud storage, you won’t be charged extra fees after paying for the equipment. Instead, your recordings will be saved onto a local hardware device.

Independent power source

Overall, a significant benefit of wireless security cameras is that they can be independent of your main power source. Hence, they’ll keep running even if there’s a power failure.

No bandwidth effect

As opposed to cameras that use WiFi connections, an IP camera doesn’t slow down the network by consuming much bandwidth.

Cons of wireless cameras without internet

Using wireless security cameras has some limitations that are included below: 

Limited availability

Most of the IP cameras obtainable in the market require an internet connection to operate fully, with only a few available exceptions.

Unable to access or regulate footage remotely

This is a common feature lacking in most wireless security cameras, limiting their function. In addition, without an internet connection, it’s impossible to access features like the live stream from your cell phone.

No alerts or warnings

Depending on its Al abilities, you may not receive notifications or warnings should the camera detect any movement.

No cloud storage function

Although security footage may be saved onto internal memory, there’s no cloud storage backup to store data. This implies that you have to devise and create a manual storage backup setup.

Limited battery capacity

Another huge drawback of wireless security cameras is their limited battery capacity. Their batteries require recharging to keep functioning and don’t last so long. In most cases, you’ll need to replace them someday.

The only feasible solution for backup battery frailty is on rare occasions when powered using a solar panel.