The complete guide to CCTV monitoring systems

What is CCTV monitoring?

CCTV monitoring transmits video footage from security cameras to a central location for recording and observation purposes. In the past, monitoring live CCTV required cameras to be physically connected to displays and recorders in a nearby CCTV monitoring station. Still, footage can be sent over the internet to remote and on-site locations.

Monitored CCTV systems are commonly used to improve safety and security in commercial environments like retail stores, offices and manufacturing sites. Cameras can be installed to cover high-traffic and high-risk areas like parking lots, accessways, workspaces and storage rooms to provide security teams with continuous, high-quality footage of events in real-time.

These systems can act as a visible crime deterrent by demonstrating to potential intruders that their actions will be identified and recorded. CCTV cameras can also be used to enhance the operation of wider security systems through integrations with video analytics tools, allowing teams to instantly activate alarms and locks in response to suspicious activity.

The main components of CCTV monitoring systems

CCTV monitoring solutions contain multiple key components that each contribute different capabilities to the wider system. Business owners and security staff must carefully consider which types of hardware and software solutions will be most appropriate for their unique needs and think about how components should be installed, integrated and managed.

CCTV cameras

CCTV cameras capture footage to be monitored. Different types of cameras are best suited to different areas. For example, dome cameras capture wide-angle footage that can be great for open spaces, while bullet cameras are best suited to long-range surveillance operations.

Some cameras have extra features that make monitoring in certain spaces easier. Cameras with night vision and thermal imaging features support CCTV monitoring in low-light conditions. PTZ cameras can be adjusted remotely to track objects in real-time and wireless IP cameras can be installed where wiring infrastructure is unavailable. 

Monitors and displays

CCTV cameras are connected to central CCTV monitoring room displays that allow staff to view and analyze captured footage at will. If a cloud management system is used, feeds can also be sent to secure smart devices to support remote CCTV monitoring operations.

Monitoring stations usually contain multiple monitors so operators can view feeds from different cameras simultaneously. Monitors should be large and capable of displaying high-resolution images to support operators in analyzing and reviewing surveillance footage.

Video recorders

Video recorders enable organizations to store captured footage for later review. Depending on which type of camera is used, either an NVR or a DVR will be required, with each device operating slightly differently.

• NVR: Compatible with digital equipment like PoE and IP cameras. NVRs cannot process footage internally, meaning the camera must process files natively.
• DVR: Compatible with analog cameras. DVRs can convert analog footage into digital video files, so no processing or encoding needs to be done natively by the camera.

Power and connectivity

Every component in a monitored CCTV system needs to be connected to a power supply and wider system elements. Monitors and video recorders can be powered by a mains supply in the CCTV monitoring room, but cameras can receive power in a few ways.

Analog, wireless and IP security cameras are usually wired to a power source near where they’re installed. In contrast, PoE cameras can send files and receive power over a single Ethernet cable. Cameras must also be connected to monitors and recorders by coaxial cables (analog), Ethernet cables (IP/​PoE) or via secure Wi-Fi connections if wireless IP cameras are in use.

Video Management Software (VMS)

VMS systems enable operators to manage, access, and adjust video files after they’ve been recorded and alter camera settings to help ensure captured footage is as high-quality as possible. An effective VMS solution will combine feeds from multiple cameras in a single, easily accessible platform, with options to flag and organize files to aid future investigations.

These systems usually feature built-in analytics tools that enable operators to zoom in and out of surveillance footage and scan images for specific stimuli like weapons or unusual events, with options to set up custom alerts and integrations to improve incident responses. 

Camera mounts and enclosures

CCTV cameras can be susceptible to intentional and accidental damage, so it’s important to ensure they have appropriate mounts and enclosures. Mounts should be sturdy and difficult for intruders to manipulate, with anti-vandal features like tamper-proof screws and housings.

Monitored CCTV cameras installed outdoors, in public spaces or dusty/​dirty areas usually require IP67+ water and dust-resistant enclosures to protect them from damage. Enclosures with an IK10 impact-resistance rating can also help to prevent damage caused by vandals.

How does CCTV monitoring work?

CCTV monitoring works by capturing real-time images through cameras, transmitting the footage to a central station, analyzing the video for potential threats and storing it for future reference. Advanced systems also integrate with other security devices, such as alarms and smart locks, to create a comprehensive security network. 

Below, we outline the key steps of a typical CCTV monitoring process:

Image capture

Commercial CCTV cameras that cover high-risk and high-traffic areas continuously capture clear footage of real-time events. Some cameras may have additional sensors programmed to flag footage in response to certain actions, like unusual motion or sounds. In contrast, others may be programmed to flag footage in response to the use of wider devices like access readers.

File transmission

Captured footage is sent to a central monitoring station or control room via coaxial cables, Ethernet cables or a secure Wi-Fi connection, depending on the types of cameras in use. If digital cameras operate, the camera will process files before transmission. In contrast, files sent by analog cameras will be sent in a raw format to be processed by a central DVR.

Monitoring and analysis

Captured images will be displayed on monitors in a central CCTV monitoring room, as well as made accessible via secure smart devices if a cloud management system is in operation. Camera operators can analyze and review this footage for signs of security threats, with VMS tools leveraged to adjust images and camera settings to aid investigative efforts.

Recording and storage

Camera footage is then sent straight to a central NVR or DVR to be appropriately processed, recorded and stored for later reference. Most CCTV monitoring systems will contain banks of hardware storage devices to ensure all footage is kept for at least 90 days, with some organizations also deploying cloud-based storage solutions as an extra backup.

Additional integrations

Monitored CCTV systems may also utilize wider integrations with additional security devices like smart locks, alarms and environmental sensors. Automations may be explored whereby triggered alarms and sensors instruct cameras to immediately flag and record footage of the target area, or camera-detected motion may be used as a trigger for smart locks to engage.

Key features and benefits of monitored CCTV systems

By monitoring CCTV systems continuously and supporting investigations using additional hardware and software tools, business and property owners can enjoy significant benefits in terms of safety and physical security improvements. Below are a few key features and benefits of monitored CCTV systems that help stakeholders effectively address and mitigate threats.

Crime deterrence 

The presence of visible CCTV cameras installed in high-risk areas can act as an effective crime deterrent, demonstrating to intruders that their actions will be identified and addressed. Studies show as many as 60% of burglars will avoid targeting a property if CCTV is in use, with monitored cameras contributing to a 50% reduction in crime in some situations.

Real-time surveillance

Developing installations where monitoring CCTV cameras is made possible continuously enables security teams to identify and respond to potential threats in real-time. Security personnel are offered a holistic view of entire sites from a central CCTV monitoring station. This enables them to relay vital security information to on-site teams to support swift responses.

Incident investigations

Monitored CCTV systems imbued with analytical tools enable security teams to analyze and review captured footage intelligently. Footage of suspicious events may be flagged and sent to operators to support prompt investigations, with wider analytical tools enabling teams to compare footage from different angles and viewpoints to gain clearer pictures of incidents.

Data-backed decisions

When CCTV is monitored with support from integrated analytical tools, operators gain further insight into anomalous and suspicious events. Video analytics software can help teams spot precursors to potential security threats like the presence of unknown vehicles or contraband items that may otherwise have been overlooked, enabling them to make informed decisions.

Remote CCTV monitoring

Monitored CCTV systems deployed as part of a cloud-based security management platform support implementing remote monitoring solutions. Property owners can ensure key areas remain secure ²⁴⁄₇. With alerts sent to admins via SMS or email and options to access live feeds remotely, vital security details can be relayed to on-site staff to support responses.

How to develop an effective CCTV monitoring solution

Multiple components must be carefully selected to develop an effective CCTV monitoring solution, and various infrastructural decisions must be made. To help business owners and security teams navigate these tasks, below are some best practices worth considering.

1. Assess present security requirements

Risk assessments should be conducted to highlight key areas and positions in which CCTV cameras should be installed. Teams should review previous security events, identify areas commonly frequented by the public and take inventory of all valuable assets stored on site, with these locations noted as prime candidates for CCTV monitoring systems to cover.

2. Consider camera types and placements

Analyze areas identified as high-risk and consider which types of cameras would be most appropriate in each spot. For example, dome security cameras with wide-angle lenses can secure great coverage of open areas like offices and parking lots. In contrast, cameras with PTZ capabilities and adjustable viewing angles best suit areas where objects of interest often move.

3. Account for power and connectivity needs

Power and connectivity requirements will vary depending on the type of cameras chosen and the infrastructural limitations of different sites. For new installations, PoE cameras that can receive power and transmit files over one Ethernet cable may be best, but it may make more sense to retain existing wiring infrastructure and simply upgrade old camera hardware.

4. Develop storage and recording solutions

Storage and recording solutions support CCTV monitoring after the fact and enable teams to meet compliance regarding retaining security footage. Consider how many cameras will be in use and how long footage should be kept to determine how much storage space will be required, with hardware and software storage systems deployed to support backups.

5. Factor in privacy and compliance rules

Different facilities in different industries and areas will be required to comply with legal requirements regarding surveillance operations. Access controls must be used to help ensure stored files remain secure, encryption software should be deployed to defend against cyber-attacks and teams must ensure CCTV monitoring systems comply with relevant data privacy laws.

6. Plan around long-term costs and scalability 

Fees associated with data storage, equipment maintenance and software subscriptions will all impact the cost of developing a CCTV monitoring system. These expenses must be factored into the project’s budget, alongside plans for future expansions that may require the purchase of additional hardware, software upgrades and installing new equipment.

Conclusion

Business and property owners can help ensure people, property and assets are reliably protected by developing a bespoke, easy-to-use and scalable CCTV monitoring system. It allows security teams to identify threats in real-time, enact quick and informed responses and improve vital investigative processes via analytics solutions.

To implement an effective CCTV monitoring system, stakeholders must assess their unique security needs, select appropriate hardware and software and make efficient use of financial resources. Ultimately, these solutions can help teams measurably improve their security capabilities.