NVR - Network Video Recorder

NVR Buying Guides

• How To Choose Security Cameras

   

  
• How To View Over the Internet

   

  
• Intro To Smart Security Cameras

   

  
• How IP Security Cameras Work

   

  

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an NVR and how does it work?

NVR stands for Network Video Recorder. An NVR recorder is responsible for receiving, displaying, and storing surveillance video from IP cameras in a modern security camera system, and serves as a central hub for remote monitoring via smartphone apps or PC. Despite the name, network video recorders do not require internet access and can be used as part of a standalone closed circuit surveillance system.

Power over Ethernet (PoE) technology is used by NVR security recorders to send power and receive data from PoE cameras. PoE is extremely convenient because it does not require the use of an external power supply or difficult and expensive coaxial cabling. To connect to cameras, network cabling can be run up to 300ft away from a PoE NVR. External extenders and PoE switches are available for cameras installed farther than 300ft away. There are also NVR systems with a built-in wireless network for WiFi security cameras, which we discuss in greater detail below.

Is there a Universal NVR? Can I use any security cameras with any NVR recorder?

The short answer is no; there is no Universal NVR that works with any security camera on the market. The reason for this is that each manufacturer has their own proprietary software and video transfer protocols. Even minor differences in firmware within the same brand or manufacturer can cause compatibility problems.

The long answer is that some NVRs provide enhanced compatibility via a loose industry standard known as ONVIF. ONVIF is a protocol that provides a video stream between a camera and an NVR but does not guarantee audio, motion detection, PTZ control, and other features that would otherwise work with truly compatible equipment. More information about the protocol can be found in our Understanding ONVIF and its Limitations article.

If you already have cameras or an NVR and want to buy new equipment, please contact our support department or give us a call for compatibility guidance.

What is the best NVR?

Some of the most important things to ask when selecting the best NVR for your needs are discussed in the following questions:

Are you replacing an NVR?

Please send us an email or call us with the model number of your old system so that we can recommend the best replacement.

Are you stuck with an old QSee NVR? See our How to Replace a QSEE DVR or NVR guide for more information.

Do you want to get away from Lorex? Look no further than our article on How to Replace Lorex Security Cameras and Systems.

Are you planning to buy a new IP security camera system?

If you need assistance deciding which NVR to purchase, please call our tech support phone number to speak with a knowledgeable representative.

How many channels do you need?

There are security NVRs that support up to 4, 8, 16, 32, 64, or 128 channels.

Do you think you might add more cameras in the future?

Even if you only have 2 to 4 cameras at first, an 8-channel NVR allows you to expand your system without purchasing a new recorder. Starting with six or more cameras with an 8-channel? Purchase a 16-channel NVR for future growth.

Are you interested in the best video quality that is offered by 8MP 4K IP cameras?

All of the NVRs we sell support the cutting-edge best video quality available from 8MP 4K PoE security cameras.

Are you looking for the real king of the hill? Our NVRs in the 5 and 6 series support even higher 4K video resolutions at 12MP. That’s right, 4000x3000 pixels with unrivaled image clarity and digital zoom!

Do you want advanced features like AI Smart Motion Detection, fisheye lens dewarping, people counting, etc?

While many of our network camera models include basic Smart Detection features such as digital tripwire and intrusion detection, not all of them support the advanced features offered by some of our better cameras. The NVR must also support the advanced features in order to configure and record the cameras that have smart detection.

Fisheye lens dewarping for 180 and 360 degree cameras, people counting, abandoned and missing object detection, face detection, and AI Smart Motion Detection are just a few of the features available on our high-end IP cameras. These features are available on a limited number of cameras and are only supported by our top-tier NVRs.

What does the encoding rate or mbps mean?

The Total Encoding Rate, also identified as "Mbps Encoding Bitrate" or "Total Mbps Encoding," refers to the recorder's ability to process video data from cameras. When selecting a NVR recorder, make sure it has sufficient encoding power to handle the number of cameras you intend to connect to it.

The Mbps used by a camera is determined by the codec (H.264 or H.265), resolution, framerate, and bitrate. 1080P cameras, for example, typically use 2Mbps to 4Mbps. 2K cameras consume between 4 and 6Mbps. 8MP (4K) cameras can use up to 12Mbps but typically use 8Mbps.

You can calculate the total encoding bitrate your cameras will use by adding their individual bitrates. Pick an NVR that supports the total encoding rate needed. Encoding limitations are generally not an issue unless you plan on purchasing 4K cameras for each channel. For easier calculations, we suggest using our NVR DVR storage calculator.

Which hard drive should you purchase? How many days of video storage are you looking for?

The amount of time a security camera recorder can record and store surveillance footage before it is overwritten is determined by three factors: the cameras, the hard drives inside the recorder, and the recording strategy. Depending on these factors, systems can record for a few days, a couple weeks, or months.

Cameras with high resolution cameras such as 4K consume more storage space than cameras with lower resolution. The same can be said for higher vs. lower framerates.

The hard drives you buy will eventually determine how much video the system can store. A larger capacity drive can store more footage. Buying multiple large capacity drives will give you plenty of space for video. To plan for your storage requirements, feel free to use our Security NVR and DVR Hard Drive Calculator. Please contact us if you need assistance determining how much storage to purchase.

Setting up a recording strategy will significantly increase the amount of time you can record. Creating a strategy involves carefully planning when your system will record continuously, on video-based motion, or when Smart Detection features are used. Only record continuously during the day when there is a lot of activity in and around your business or home, and only record based on motion detection at night. A more advanced and powerful recording strategy involves continuously recording the lower resolution substream while only recording the full resolution mainstream when motion is detected or a detection rule is triggered.

How can I access an NVR?

NVRs by CCTV Camera World are accessible in several different ways. Customers access an NVR for the first time by connecting it to a computer monitor or HDTV via an HDMI or VGA cable using the included mouse to access menus. After the system is configured, you can access it using smartphone apps or computer software. Both the app and the software can listen to audio from IP cameras with microphones and interact with two-way audio security cameras.

The smartphone app can be downloaded from the Apple App Store and the Google Playstore. In our Dummies Guide for watching security systems over the Internet, we have a tutorial on connecting the app to one of our systems. Check out our Remote Viewing App article for a sneak peek at how the app works and overview of features it has to offer.

A Central Monitoring Software for Windows and Mac users is available for download. The software is a powerful all-in-one solution for customizing live views, and it is capable of playing recorded video from multiple high-resolution cameras at the same time with the help of a powerful computer processor. A typical NVR can only play back a maximum of two or four 4K cameras at once, whereas a powerful PC can watch up to eight or more over a fast network connection.

Is there a monthly charge?

There are ZERO monthly or recurring fees for owning an NVR from CCTV Camera World. Free, fast, and efficient email support is available Monday through Friday during business hours, with response times ranging from 30 minutes to 90 minutes, which you won't find with any other company. If you require direct assistance with the product after purchasing it, we do offer a paid remote support service.

Can I get alerts on my iPhone or Android?

With push notifications, you can receive alerts from an NVR camera system directly to your iOS or Android device. You no longer have to worry about the hassle of configuring email alerts.

Can I use an NVR without the internet?

Yes, NVRs DO NOT require internet access to function. Despite the word "network," NVRs can function as standalone CCTV systems without an internet connection or outside access. However, systems can only be viewed remotely off-site if an internet connection is available.

Is there a wireless NVR?

Yes, a wireless NVR with built-in wireless radios is available to provide a WiFi network for wireless security cameras. To make installation as simple as possible, the WiFi cameras will automatically pair with the NVR. This system can cover up to 250 feet in a small home or office with few obstructions. We recommend using a wired NVR over a local network to connect cameras to a WiFi router or access point in larger areas. Wireless cameras are not wire-free and must be powered by 12V DC power adaptors from nearby.

Can more than one person have access to my NVR if needed?

Yes, you can create multiple user accounts. However, if multiple people are remotely viewing the system, you must consider the upload bandwidth limitations of your Internet connection and limit access to only one or two people at a time. When several users try to access the system simultaneously, a slow Internet connection will throttle the viewing experience.

Can an NVR be hacked?

Modern NVRs cannot be hacked because of security enhancements such as secure passwords, limited recovery options, and built-in firewall. Before shipping, we test, update, and initialize all of our NVRs with a secure password to ensure they are not vulnerable to hacking. Unless you are an IT professional, we do not recommend enabling the firewall. While they are beneficial, they are not required to prevent hacking if the system is located behind a firewall on a router.

Our systems support smart features and AI

One of the many benefits of purchasing an NVR system from CCTV Camera World is the Smart Detection capabilities of our recorders and cameras. Smart Detection enables you to tailor your system to record areas of interest with far greater accuracy than traditional video-based motion detection. Shadows, insects, or small animals do not trigger basic AI rules such as tripwire and intrusion detection. Smart motion detection, face detection, people counting, and missing or abandoned object detection are excellent choices for businesses and enthusiast home users.

Which is better: NVR or a DVR?

An NVR is the best choice for new installations to take advantage of the new and improved technology offered by IP cameras. A DVR is a better option for older systems where replacing the cable or cameras is too difficult. Check out our DVR vs NVR - Which is Best? article to learn more about the differences between the two.

What is a NDAA compatible NVR?

The 2019 NDAA (National Defense Authorization Act) prohibits the use of several Chinese chip and electronic product manufacturers by the US Government. The ban also prohibits the installation, purchase, and use of a vast majority of CCTV equipment imported from China by organizations that receive direct federal funding. Contact us for NDAA compliant products if you are purchasing for the military, government, or your institution receives federal funding.