ELI5: What is Video Surveillance (CCTV)?
Security cameras are like extra pairs of eyes that never blink. They watch the building all day and night, scaring off bad guys and recording everything so you can see what happened later.
Definition
Video surveillance using Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) systems provides continuous monitoring and recording of physical areas within and around a facility. Modern systems use IP cameras, digital video recorders (DVRs/NVRs), and AI-powered analytics to monitor access points, perimeters, server rooms, and common areas. CCTV serves as both a deterrent (visible cameras discourage criminal behavior) and a detective control (recordings provide evidence after incidents).
Key Details
- Deterrent AND detective: Visible cameras deter attacks; recorded footage enables post-incident investigation.
- IP cameras: Modern systems use networked cameras—must be secured (change default credentials, encrypted streams, separate VLAN for camera traffic).
- Retention: Organizations must balance storage costs with legal and investigative needs—typically 30-90 days retention.
- Lighting: CCTV effectiveness depends heavily on adequate lighting—poor lighting makes footage unusable.
- AI analytics: Modern systems can detect unusual behavior, recognize faces, count occupants, and detect perimeter breaches automatically.
Connections
- Parent: physical-security — a surveillance-based physical security control
- See also: lighting, security-guards