A wired camera uses a cable for its network connection; a wireless camera usually sends data over Wi-Fi. Power and recording are separate choices, so check the complete system rather than the connection label alone.
In this guide
Separate network, power and recording
A Wi-Fi camera may still need a power cable. A suitable wired system may use Power over Ethernet, which carries power and data on the network cable. Other cameras use separate power connections or batteries. Check the actual model’s requirements.
Our security systems and CCTV service can help plan the camera positions, routes and recording arrangement together.
Compare the installation choices
| Choice | What it can suit | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| Wired network | Fixed locations with a practical cable route. | Route access, equipment compatibility and network capacity. |
| Wi-Fi network | Locations where radio coverage is suitable. | Signal at the camera, interference and power supply. |
| Battery power | Selected locations without permanent power. | Charging access, recording behaviour and maintenance. |
| Local or cloud recording | Different storage and access needs. | Retention, access permissions and ongoing service costs. |
Test the view and connection
Describe what you need to see: the entrance, a gate, a vehicle area or activity at a particular doorway. Consider daylight, backlighting and the night-time view. A high mounting position may show a large area but less useful detail at the place that matters.
Check the proposed Wi-Fi position before choosing a wireless camera. Our Ethernet and Wi-Fi guide explains why walls and placement can influence a connection.
Plan maintenance and interruptions
Think about safe access for cleaning, battery charging and future replacement. Ask what happens to recording during a power cut or loss of internet access; this depends on the equipment and storage arrangement. Remote viewing and local recording do not always depend on the same connection.
If new cabling is needed, use the cabling specification guide to frame routes, termination and testing. Confirm camera and network equipment compatibility before ordering components.
Keep the view focused and access controlled
Position cameras to serve your security purpose while limiting unnecessary views into neighbouring property or private spaces. For a workplace, discuss privacy responsibilities, staff communication, notices and access to recordings before installation. These depend on how the system is used.
- Mark intended views on a simple site plan.
- Identify power, network and recording locations.
- State who needs access and from which devices.
- Discuss retention and ongoing service requirements.
- Agree handover, account ownership and maintenance tasks.
Questions about Camera connections
Does wireless mean the camera has no cables?
No. Wireless commonly describes the network connection; the camera may still need a power cable. Check the model's power and recording arrangements.
Will a wired camera record if the internet fails?
That depends on the recording system and configuration. Ask the installer to explain local recording and remote access separately.
Tell us which entrances or areas you want covered and how you want to review recordings. We can discuss a camera layout and connection method that fit the property.