Internet Based Video Surveillance, A New Security Strategy    

By Ryan Heglund       

           Have you considered using a web-based digital surveillance camera system? This system sends digital video signal over the Internet to a designated I.P. (Web) Address, hosted by a remote server where video is stored electronically for up to 35 days. The only equipment necessary on site is the cameras. With this system, property management, tenants, residents, security officers and anyone else authorized can monitor the surveillance video from any Internet connected PC, anywhere in the world.

This puts tenants in much greater control over their own security by allowing them to monitor building activities from home, their unit, or while away. Any suspicious activity can be reported to your private security service and a patrol officer will respond to investigate; quickly, discreetly and effectively. Or, if police officers are necessary, the Monitoring Center can advise responding police officers on the situation as it happens, and inform them of exactly what to expect upon arrival.

This system will add value to the property and will be an additional selling point for rental units. Outsourcing your surveillance video monitoring off site can save significant money over on site security personnel, while maintaining efficient response time to any suspicious situation.

            The system can be integrated with other sensor equipment, and can alert managers or security officers electronically of any alarms, via telephone, FAX, pager, cell phone or Internet. The cost of a basic 4 camera (color) system is about $2,500. Monitoring service may cost about $50 per month. This type of system can help build highly effective security coverage for most any property.