Keep an eye out at all times
Installing security cameras can give you peace of mind even when you’re not at home. And luckily, learning how to install security cameras is easy enough for most handy homeowners, especially if you opt for a wireless system. Setting up a security camera system will take you a weekend and provide you with a long time of peace and quiet.
Determining which type of cameras you’ll purchase and where to put them is crucial to choosing a security system that meets your needs and is simple to use.
After choosing your ideal camera locations and figuring out how you'll power the devices, you'll need to mount the cameras with screws or adhesive pads, power them on, connect them, and complete the configuration process. Here's a closer look at all the steps.
Consider your goals and needs when choosing where to place your security cameras. Do you want to check on deliveries, see who stops by your house, or check in on your pets?
Identify specific spots for your cameras with a clear line of vision and no obstructions. Placing your cameras higher up allows for a better range of vision and prevents others from tampering with the device. Nine to 10 feet from the ground is ideal.
Popular spots for outdoor cameras include above the garage door, front door, back door, and in view of vehicles. Some homeowners also install a security camera above a side entrance or walkway.
If your cameras are outdoors, they should be able to withstand temperatures and conditions in your area. You might consider installing a weather shield to protect your camera from the elements. If your cameras are indoors, consider hiding them from view and ensuring the cord isn't in a high-traffic area to avoid tripping and entanglement. Avoid installing security cameras that infringe on your neighbor's privacy.
If you have wired cameras, determine which outlet or power source they’ll plug into. You can drill a hole in the wall, ceiling, or roof to thread the cables through to a power source and the DVR device. Make sure your wired security cameras can reach an outlet and the DVR. If not, purchase cable extenders and power extension cords, or choose a different location for your camera.
Hiding the wires through a wall or ceiling is a more complex job. If you don’t have experience drilling into siding and walls and fishing wires, it’s best to have a professional security camera installation crew handle the job.
If you don’t have an outlet nearby and want to add one, hire an electrician. They can also hardwire the system through a wall or ceiling for less cord visibility. If your camera requires an Ethernet hookup and you don’t have one nearby, an electrician can also add that.
If you have wireless cameras, ensure the batteries are charged and ready to go before installing them.
Since the ideal location for most cameras is at least nine feet high, follow ladder safety tips, including ensuring the ladder is level and stable and having another person assist you.
Some security cameras need to be mounted with screws, while others come with an adhesive pad that sticks to the wall.
If using screws, find a wall stud with a stud finder or another method. You’ll want to screw your device into the wall stud for stability. Some cameras may come with drywall anchors, allowing you to install the device in a location without a stud. With a pencil, mark the spots on the wall where you want to mount the camera.
If using screws, pre-drill holes in the wall where your screws will go, or follow the drill template that came with your device. Place the camera on the wall and screw the device in place.
If using adhesive pads, follow the manufacturer’s instructions. In general, remove the plastic covering, press the adhesive into the wall for at least 60 seconds, and wait at least 12 hours before sticking the camera to the wall to ensure the adhesive pad is secure.
If you have a wired camera, connect your camera to the power source and your video cables to your DVR. Hide the cables behind a tall bookshelf, a piece of furniture, or secure it along the edge of a wall to keep the cord discreet.
For wireless cameras, connect your camera to Wi-Fi and enable Bluetooth connection. Install and activate the software that comes with your device, and connect the security cameras to a larger home security system, if applicable.
With your cameras turned on and connected, check to make sure the cameras are capturing what you want. Adjust the camera angles and settings, such as motion detector sensitivity, facial recognition, and night vision.
To help plan your installation, determine which type of security camera is best for your home. Here's a breakdown of both types.
Wireless security cameras offer plenty of advantages for homeowners and are a great option for those needing only one or two cameras around the home. Due to the lack of wiring or special installation equipment, many homeowners find installing these cameras much less daunting than the wired option. Another major advantage of wireless security cameras is the ability to install them anywhere without positioning them near a power source. This can be a game-changer for those whose homes don’t have electrical outlets in convenient locations.
Wireless cameras are typically less expensive than wired ones, but they may require a cloud storage subscription for full operation. Before you select a wireless security camera, you should note it does require a consistent Wi-Fi connection.
The other choice for homeowners is a wired security camera. Wired cameras offer advantages like better coverage for a large area and higher image quality. Any homeowner with a large property or multiple buildings will likely appreciate the robust coverage area from a wired security camera network, plus the reliability a power source offers.
Wired security cameras are typically more complicated to install, requiring a nearby power source or outlet. Once installed, you must use a physical location for data storage, such as a digital video recording (DVR) box, further adding to the equipment needed with wired cameras. Plus, wired security cameras are generally more expensive than wireless versions, but you won’t have the expense of cloud storage.
Before you DIY your way through installing your security cameras, you may want to stop and consider a few things to help save yourself time, money, and frustration. To ensure you have the most useful security system, consider factors like the type of property you have, the kind of cameras you need, and how you plan to monitor them.
Think about the type of property you’re working with. For example, are you in a cozy apartment or a spacious single-family house? Each of these homes comes with its own security challenges. If you live in a multi-unit apartment building, you’ll want to be mindful of shared areas and your neighbors’ privacy. A single-family home, meanwhile, gives you more freedom to choose where to place your cameras. Understanding your property’s layout helps you figure out the best spots for coverage, making sure that areas like your front door and driveway are well-protected.
Start by asking yourself whether you need an indoor or outdoor camera (or both). Outdoor cameras are usually weatherproof and designed to perform well in low-light conditions, so they can capture clear footage day or night. Indoor cameras blend seamlessly into your living space so you can monitor what’s happening inside without being intrusive. They’re great for keeping tabs on kids and pets, or just making sure everything is secure while you’re away.
When figuring out the type of security camera you want to install, you should also consider whether you prefer wired or wireless. Wired cameras tend to be more reliable, with higher-quality footage. Wireless cameras are easier to install as a DIYer, which could save you some money. They transmit footage over Wi-Fi, which means they can be more vulnerable to hackers if your internet security isn’t up to par.
Not all cameras are created equal, so it’s important to know what features you really need. Start with resolution and image quality. Aim for at least 1080p so you can capture crisp, clear images that help you identify faces or license plates. Look for extra features like night vision and motion detection. Plus, having the ability to integrate your cameras with your smart home system allows you to control everything from one convenient app.
Start by pinpointing vulnerable areas that need extra attention, like your front and back doors, driveway, garage, and the sides of your house. And don’t forget about your yard—both front and back. A well-placed camera can cover multiple angles and help you minimize the number of cameras you need while still keeping watch over your property. For larger properties, you might find yourself using anywhere from six to 18 cameras to make sure you have every area monitored.
For indoor cameras, think about special rooms that could benefit from extra surveillance. Hallways are also areas to consider monitoring, as they can serve as entry points to other parts of your home. With thoughtful placement, you can create a security system that keeps your entire property safe.
Decide whether you want a self-monitored or professionally monitored camera system. Self-monitoring is the more budget-friendly option and gives you control over your footage and alerts. However, keep in mind that this means you’re on call for any alerts, and it’s up to you to react when something happens.
A professional monitoring service offers extra peace of mind. For a monthly fee, you get 24-hour surveillance and an immediate response from a security team. They’ll alert both you and authorities if there’s an emergency, which is invaluable if you’re not always able to keep an eye on things.
Security cameras vary widely in price, so set a realistic budget that covers everything—not just the cameras themselves, but also installation and any ongoing monitoring fees. On average, security camera installations cost $1,298 but typically range between $594 and $2,040. While higher-priced options often come with advanced features, you want to find a balance between cost and quality. Think of your camera system as a long-term investment in your security. It can potentially save you money—from potential losses from theft or damage—in the long run.
If you’re tech-savvy and handy, you may be able to install a wireless system yourself. If you’re considering a wired system, it’s generally best to leave the job to a professional.
Remember to respect your neighbors’ privacy when setting up your security cameras. Familiarize yourself with local laws regarding surveillance to avoid any legal headaches. While you generally can angle your cameras toward neighboring properties if they’re within view, there are specific regulations about privacy expectations that you should keep in mind.
Make sure your cameras aren’t positioned to capture private areas, like your neighbors’ backyards or patios. And definitely avoid pointing them toward windows or the interior of someone’s home.
Installing a wireless security camera system is straightforward and can be done by most homeowners. A wired camera system can be a bit trickier, especially if you don’t have easily accessible outlets or want to hide the cords in the wall. A local security camera company can help plan your layout, set up a hard drive, connect your devices, and ensure everything works properly. The typical cost of professional security camera installation ranges from $600 to $2,100, but this will vary depending on the cost of the cameras you’ve chosen.
You can sometimes install security cameras yourself, but it’s usually a job best left to the pros to ensure everything’s done right and your home is properly protected. Wireless security cameras are the most DIY-friendly to install. If you need any electrical work to get up and running, such as adding an outlet or other power source, contact an electrician or home security camera installation pro to help with the job.
Security cameras do not need wiring if they are wireless, meaning they are battery-operated and can connect through Wi-Fi. You’ll need to change the batteries on a wireless camera and ensure you have a steady connection to Wi-Fi for video storage. If you have a wired security camera, you’ll need to plug it into an outlet or other power source and a DVR device.
