Suppose you possess a security camera for your business or residence. In that case, you are aware that there is always a potential that it will go offline at specific points throughout its lifespan. Even if a security camera goes offline, it automatically reconnects as quickly as feasible. Due to the possibility of your security system going offline, you, as the security camera owner, must know how to troubleshoot issues and get your camera back up. Therefore, it is necessary to understand the common causes and how to address them.
In this article, we will be going over the many reasons why your security camera keeps going offline so that you can prevent it from jeopardising you and your safety.
Common reasons why security camera goes offline
- The camera’s power is not stable
Often the problem might be as simple as a disconnected wire, or the network could be currently down. Internet protocol (IP) cameras feature LED indicators that convey data to the network, however, these indications may be concealed within the camera. If the camera’s LEDs do not illuminate, you should verify that the camera is powered externally (plugged into the wall). If electricity rather than a battery powers your camera, you will need to confirm that it is receiving the correct wattage. Keep in mind, a more advanced camera requires more watts than a standard outlet can provide.
- Problems with your camera’s network connection
In order to stay online, the camera must connect to your private network through Wi-Fi or Ethernet. A router or connection issue can prevent the camera from connecting, causing it to go offline. Many connectivity difficulties, including wireless network interference and improper router settings, might impair an IP camera. Again, you must enter the right password to connect the camera.
If the password changes, the camera will disconnect and go offline automatically. Simply log in to your network with the right password to resolve this issue. If you utilise the incorrect setup settings, the IP camera will be unable to connect through the router, either because the router has never been installed or because the settings have been altered. Infrequently, a router may also reject the Wi-Fi channel used by the camera if it is not supported or if the channel is overloaded.
- Monitor for interference from different Wi-Fi networks
Interference can be a potential issue for your security system if multiple networks operate on the same channel. If you think this is the case for your situation, we suggest that you change the router’s channel setting. Please consult the user manual for your router in order to change channels.
- Corrupted Software
It is usual for either the router or the camera’s temporary files to become corrupted. Restarting the device will remove any temporary files. Firmware corruption or obsolescence might cause the IP camera to go offline occasionally. If this is the issue with your camera, the firmware must be updated to the most recent version. You can accomplish this by connecting to VMS and going to the web page for the camera’s software.
- Weak Bandwidth
You may not have a strong enough broadband connection at home. This may result from a low-tier broadband service or excessive bandwidth consumption, which includes downloading, uploading files or streaming from your PC). You may need to improve your broadband package if you use many cameras or motion-activated recordings frequently.
- Interference from other household appliances
Check for electromagnetic interference from any of your home electronics. Multiple household equipment and devices (television sets, refrigerators, baby monitors, cell phones) are capable of causing wireless interference. To increase the performance of your router, position it several feet away from these devices.
Tips on how to get your cameras back online
- Unplug the Camera from the Power Source and Restart It
Disconnecting your camera from its power source is the first step towards restoring its functionality. Unplug the camera and let it sit for a few minutes, then reconnect it after a few minutes have elapsed. If it fails the first time, try it a couple more before moving on to the next suggestion. Performing a power cycle on the device should resolve any software glitches and overheating issues.
- Do a Factory Reset on your Camera
The next step is to reset your camera to factory settings. This is a harsh measure to take, as you may lose all of your camera’s history, but it will help you debug any problems. Find the manual that came with your camera. If you do not have the handbook, you can find the majority of modern product manuals on the manufacturer’s website. Once you have the manual in front of you, repeat the camera setup instructions to restore the camera to its factory settings. Hopefully, this will erase what is corrupting your camera, making it work normally again.
- Reboot Your Wi-Fi Router and Modem
If the camera’s power source is not the issue, your wireless internet connection may be faulty. To troubleshoot this issue, shut down your camera and power down your Wi-Fi router and modem. Wait one minute before turning on the modem. After 30 seconds, restart the router. Wait thirty seconds before turning the camera’s power back on.
Conclusion
There will be moments when your security system is offline, regardless of its quality. It cannot be avoided, especially when employing cameras connected to wireless internet networks. If you own a security camera or system that a third party manages, then troubleshooting and reactivating your cameras will be their responsibility. But if you are still unsure how to fix your cameras, consult an expert who can guide you through each step and help fix the underlying problem.
If you or someone close to you is in need of a professional security camera specialist in Perth, then Casa Security is the team you’ve been looking for! Casa Security is happy to offer video verification solutions for its industry-leading, 24-hour alarm monitoring services. Whether you are at work or on vacation, you can be confident that our operators are constantly monitoring your alarm system and are prepared to respond to any security danger.