IP Camera Software

IP Camera Software Overview

IP Network Video Surveillance software can encompass many different features and capabilities depending on the software developer and software applications available. Many IP network cameras or network video encoders come bundled with very basic network video monitoring and recording software. Bundled software is usually very limited in design however and can lack some of the more advanced capabilities found in software that is purchased separately. There are a few network camera and video encoder manufacturers that bundle full featured software with their products. This software may include basic monitoring and recording or may expand to include full remote management and surveillance. Bundled software is usually limited to the amount of devices that can be monitored. The amount of devices tends to be limited to 16 or 32 channels (devices). It is also important to note that bundled software is almost always proprietary in design and will only support the manufacturer’s brand that the software came bundled with. Some manufactures may include basic software with their products but will offer a full featured software application for separate purchase.

When looking to purchase an IP network video surveillance software package you will need to ensure that the IP cameras or video encoders you wish to monitor or record video from are compatible with the software you intend on purchasing. There are many third party software developers that support multiple manufacturers’ devices under a single platform. This is usually one of the first recognized benefits for purchasing a third party software application. Support can vary from full support to partial support of a network device. Device support information can always been found on the software developer's website or by request. Other benefits may include advanced device management capabilities, advanced remote surveillance capabilities, video analytic applications or add-on software packages. Video Analytic software capabilities may include license plate recognition, facial recognition, object tracking, people counting as well as POS application support. Although many third part network video surveillance software application developers support up to an unlimited amount of devices within one accessible software platform, it is important to note that there is usually a license fee attached to the actual amount of devices you intend to monitor and record at one time.