PoE (Power over Ethernet) cameras get power and data through one network cable. Wi-Fi cameras send video over your wireless network and get power from a plug-pack, a hard-wired supply or a battery. Both can work well; they suit different homes and expectations.
Ring 0421 772 661 to plan a camera system. CCTV installation in NSW is licensed security work, and we hold NSW Security Licence S00014414.
A PoE camera runs a single Ethernet cable back to a PoE recorder (NVR) or PoE network switch. That cable powers the camera and carries the video, so there's no power point needed at the camera and no reliance on Wi-Fi signal strength. Wired connections are generally the most dependable way to record continuously.
A Wi-Fi camera only needs power at its location. That makes it quicker to install where cabling is hard, and many Wi-Fi cameras record to the cloud or an onboard memory card. The trade-off is that video quality and reliability depend on your Wi-Fi coverage, and a busy or weak network can cause dropouts. Battery models avoid wiring altogether but need recharging and often record only when motion is detected.
Homes wanting reliable continuous recording, multiple cameras around a property, and owners renovating with walls or ceilings open.
One or two cameras, renters or apartment owners who can't run cables, and spots where a power point is already nearby.
Temporary or hard-to-reach spots where you accept event-only recording and regular charging.
Wi-Fi cameras commonly go offline when the router is moved or replaced, the Wi-Fi password changes, or the camera sits at the edge of coverage behind brick walls. Double-brick terraces and garages at the back of long blocks are classic weak spots in the Inner West.
PoE systems are less affected by signal problems, but a damaged cable, a failed PoE port or a recorder that loses power will take cameras down. See PoE camera no power for that scenario. Putting the recorder and router on a surge-protected circuit helps.
Most of the work in a PoE system is cabling: routing Ethernet from each camera back to the recorder through ceilings, walls or conduit, with weatherproof entries outdoors. Older homes with accessible roof spaces are often straightforward; slab-on-ground extensions and finished walls take more planning.
Wi-Fi cameras still need sensible mounting height, a weather-rated position and, for wired-power models, a suitable power supply. We can add a power point or hard-wired supply where needed. Our security camera installation guide covers placement, privacy and recording.
Many homes use PoE cameras for the main entry points and a Wi-Fi or battery camera somewhere cabling isn't practical. Brands such as Hikvision and UniFi Protect are mainly wired systems, while others focus on Wi-Fi and battery products. Choose the system first, then the cameras that suit it.
Yes, unless they're battery-powered. Wi-Fi only replaces the data cable, not the power supply.
Standard Ethernet has a distance limit of around 100 metres per run. Longer runs need extra network equipment.
They keep recording to a local recorder. Remote viewing stops until the internet returns.
In NSW, installing CCTV is licensed security work. We hold Security Licence S00014414 and Electrical Licence 332956C.
Usually, yes. Send us the brand and model and we'll advise what the installation involves.
NSW Electrical Contractor Licence 332956C · Fully insured · Since 2016 · Based in Hurlstone Park
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