Why Mobile Internet Is Not Recommended for Security Cameras

Answer: Unstable connection and high data charges are some of the reasons why mobile internet is not recommended.

DISCLAIMER: Our technical support can only help you ensure the connection between your security system and modem or router; an unstable or slow internet connection must be reported to your ISP.

 

When it comes to connecting these devices, some people may turn to mobile internet, which uses a SIM card for internet access. While mobile internet can technically work with many security cameras, it’s not always the best option. It’s important to clarify that we’re not saying mobile internet is incompatible with security cameras—most systems will work as long as the connection meets basic requirements. However, using mobile internet often leads to stability issues and inconsistent performance, which can compromise the reliability of your security system.

Below, we’ll outline why mobile internet is not recommended for security cameras, share common issues you might encounter, and help you make an informed decision.

 

Reasons Why Mobile Internet Is Not Recommended

It Can Work, But Stability Is a Challenge

Most security cameras and recorders only require a stable internet connection to function properly:

• For recorders with an Ethernet port, they just need a wired internet connection.
• Wireless recorders and stand-alone cameras only require a 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi network to connect.

As long as these conditions are met, the cameras can stream video or upload clips to the cloud. However, mobile internet often struggles with providing consistent connectivity, which can lead to intermittent issues. If the connection drops or becomes unstable, you may experience delays in accessing live feeds, incomplete uploads, or missed events.

 

Common Scenarios with Mobile Internet

Using mobile internet with security cameras can result in the following challenges:

• Buffering During Live Feeds: Streaming live footage can become frustrating if the connection struggles to keep up, resulting in constant buffering or interruptions.
• Inconsistent Monitoring: During peak hours, mobile internet providers often throttle speeds, causing your cameras to lose connection or struggle with performance.
• High Data Charges: Mobile internet often comes with data limits or expensive overage fees, leading to unexpected charges if your security cameras use more data than your plan allows, especially with continuous streaming and cloud uploads.
• Missing Video Clips: If your internet connection drops during an upload, the clip might fail to save to the cloud, leaving gaps in your footage.
• Delayed Notifications: Imagine receiving an alert for motion detection, but the notification arrives late because of high latency on mobile internet. This delay could reduce your ability to act in time.

 

A Better Solution: Wired Internet Connection

The key to ensuring that your security cameras operate smoothly is a reliable internet connection; here's why:

• Stable and Consistent Speed: A wired connection, such as fiber-optic or a standard broadband connection, offers faster and more consistent speeds compared to mobile internet. This means your cameras can stream and upload footage without interruptions.
• Less Interference: Mobile internet is prone to issues like signal interference or congestion, especially in remote areas or during peak usage times. A wired internet connection doesn’t face these challenges, providing a more reliable connection overall.
• No Data Caps: Unlike mobile internet, which often comes with data limits, a wired internet connection typically offers unlimited data or much higher data caps, ensuring you won’t experience slowdowns due to exceeding your limit.

DID YOU KNOW? While your security device can be either wired or wireless to the modem or router, it’s the source of the internet connection that should come from a wired source for the best performance.

 

Conclusion

A wired internet connection is the better choice for security cameras because it offers more stability, faster speeds, and fewer disruptions than mobile internet, ensuring consistent performance for streaming and uploading footage.

However, if mobile internet is the only option available in your location, you must be prepared for potential drawbacks such as intermittent connection, slower speeds, and higher data usage, which could impact the reliability of your security system.