While we continuously monitor and fine-tune the availability of our cloud infrastructure, it's important to understand that many network elements exist between your camera and our cloud. These include:
Your router or modem
Your ISP’s network infrastructure
Multiple intermediate routers and switches
And finally, our cloud servers, which span across multiple data centers
Any disruption along this chain — whether it's a power outage, network congestion, or hardware failure — can affect your camera’s ability to stream and record video to the cloud.
How to Increase the Chances of Successful Video Recording
To improve reliability and ensure your footage is captured even during unexpected events, consider the following strategies:
1. Use a Battery Backup (UPS)
Install an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) for your cameras and router. This ensures they stay online during short power outages.
Especially effective for PoE (Power over Ethernet) setups, where one UPS can power multiple cameras through a centralized switch.
Entry-level UPS units start around $40 and can provide enough backup for several devices.
2. Choose Cameras with Local SD Card Recording
Many cameras support onboard recording to SD cards, allowing them to store footage locally even if the internet connection drops.
Brands like Axis, Hikvision, and Reolink offer models with built-in SD card slots.
Axis cameras, for example, feature a user-friendly web interface for accessing and managing recorded video.
3. Install a Local NVR (Network Video Recorder)
A local NVR can record video from multiple cameras on your local network without relying on internet connectivity.
Ideal for setups with multiple cameras or where long-term storage is needed.
Works independently of cloud services, ensuring continuous recording even during internet outages.
4. Use Dual-Path Connectivity (Advanced)
Some advanced camera systems support dual-path recording, where footage is sent to both a local NVR and the cloud simultaneously.
This provides redundancy and ensures footage is available even if one path fails.
5. Monitor Network Health
Regularly check your network for:
Signal strength (especially for Wi-Fi cameras)
Bandwidth usage
Router firmware updates
Consider using network monitoring tools to detect outages or performance issues early.
Why These Solutions Matter
While cloud recording offers convenience and remote access, local solutions provide resilience. The first option — using a UPS — is the most cost-effective and elegant, especially for PoE setups. The other two options (SD card and NVR) are completely independent of internet infrastructure, meaning your video will still be recorded even if your ISP experiences downtime or your router fails.
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