HomeInspireDown to Business

The Best Security Cameras for Businesses

4 min read

The Best Security Cameras for Businesses
Physical security has always been a top concern for businesses. No matter the size of the organisation, all employers have a responsibility to protect their staff, properties, and assets from physical threats. From natural disasters and hazardous weather to fires and targeted attacks, businesses must have systems in place to identify and address threats effectively.
In most cases, security cameras will act as a primary tool for both detecting and assessing threatening incidents. This means business owners and security teams must make sure the systems they choose are fit for the job and of the highest quality. However, with so many different types of devices to choose from, finding a fitting solution can often be challenging.
To help employers simplify this task, and to ensure that businesses remain well-protected from physical threats, here’s a rundown of the best security cameras for businesses today.

Pelco Spectra Enhanced 7 Series - PTZ Dome Cameras

When designing an effective physical security system, coverage is key. However, installing hundreds of individual cameras to cover all areas of a commercial property isn’t usually the most cost-effective solution. Modern pan-tilt-zoom (PTZ) cameras, such as Pelco’s Spectra Enhanced 7 Series models, address this issue by enabling teams to adjust viewing angles in real time.
This advanced business security camera has a wide-angle lens designed to provide clear views of large open spaces. Remote access controls allow for long-range optical zoom, 360° adjustments, and video quality of up to 4K. In addition, these cameras come with built-in video analytics software capable of detecting threats autonomously, with low-light settings and a rugged outer casing ideally suited for both indoor and outdoor use.

Arlo Ultra - Small-Scale Wireless Security Cameras 

For small businesses, installing high-end commercial security cameras isn’t always a feasible option, meaning small-scale wireless security cameras may be more appropriate. Thankfully, modern wireless systems are surprisingly powerful for their size, with several smart features and customisable controls perfectly suited for smaller business locations.
Arlo’s Ultra wireless cameras, for example, cover the foundations of an effective security camera system for a reasonable price. These models can produce 4K HDR footage, offer 12X digital zoom functionality, and come with built-in colour-enhancing software to clean up images captured in low-light conditions. Most importantly, there’s no need for costly wiring work, just fix the cameras in place and view captured footage via a dedicated phone app.
These affordable cameras are also well-suited to residential environments, perfect for any property owners thinking about developing their own home automation system.

Avigilon H6A - Long-Range Bullet Cameras

For larger businesses in need of cameras to cover large facilities like warehouses and car parks, long-range bullet cameras are something of a necessity. Security teams will need to reliably assess potential threats approaching from long distances, meaning effective devices must be able to produce clear footage at long ranges and in adverse weather conditions. 
High-quality bullet cameras like Avigilon’s H6A models are designed to capture clear footage at a distance of up to 230ft. With a casing rated to withstand impacts of up to 20 joules and built-in IR illumination to improve image quality in low-light conditions. Additionally, H6A units come with internal video and audio analytics software, meaning staff can set up instant alerts warning of suspicious actions such as crowds forming or sounds consistent with a break-in.

D-Link DCS - Thermal Health-Screening Cameras

Finally, for customer-facing businesses and highly populated office spaces, thermal security cameras may be of benefit. These devices can use a combination of thermal imaging and AI-informed software to identify signs of illness in the workplace. This enables businesses to perform quick health screenings that could limit the spread of illness in enclosed workplaces.
D-Link DCS models also come with facial recognition technology and built-in data analysis features, meaning integrations with access control systems can be developed to improve security in high-risk locations. Where appropriate, high-level employees can use biometric credentials to limit access to highly sensitive areas like file storage or cash counting rooms.

How to choose the right business security cameras

  • Number of cameras - A site survey must be conducted to work out how many units will be needed, experts will be able to locate blind spots and suggest suitable models
  • Types of cameras - Consider where cameras are to be installed and the purpose of these cameras, bullet models for long-range use, dome models for 360° coverage etc
  • File storage and management - Will the business benefit from cloud storage and management systems? Or will a secure on-premises solution be more appropriate?
  • Required functionality - Will AI video analytics and instant alerts help to improve incident responses? Are wider security system integrations planned for the future?
  • Installation considerations - Can the business afford to have new cameras wired into the property? If not, smart wireless models may be a more appropriate option

Summary

Business security cameras are an essential part of any effective physical security system, but choosing an appropriate array of devices can be more complicated than many business owners may expect. Provided chosen systems include durable hardware, can provide ample coverage of key locations, and enable security teams to easily view live footage and adjust installed devices, developing a bespoke and effective security system is certainly possible.
Business owners should consider the merits of different types of cameras, with dome models well-suited to large open spaces and bullet models ideal for long-range applications. Extra features should also be considered, including whether AI-informed analytics will help teams to better identify threats. With these factors in mind, business owners can improve existing security systems to protect their staff and properties from common threats.
Keep up with the top stories from Reader’s Digest by subscribing to our weekly newsletter.
Loading up next...