Having Problems With Your Security Camera? Here Are 9 Tips That Can Help

July 13, 2023 by Anas Mustafa

Security cameras are an integral part of any home or business security system. Unfortunately, like all technology, they can experience the occasional hiccup in their function. However, this doesn’t mean the whole system has failed and needs to be scrapped.

Luckily, most issues are easy to fix and won’t take you away from your whole day. First, though, you must identify the problem you are experiencing, and then you can look at troubleshooting to see what you can do to fix it. In this article, we will examine nine common issues with security cameras and how you can solve them.

1. Shifted position

One thing that can happen when a camera has not been properly installed outside is it can shift. If you have experienced high winds or a storm recently, check the positioning of the camera, and make sure it is still in place.

You may need to replace the wall mounting, remove debris such as fallen branches, or reposition the camera if it moved during the storm.

2. Incorrect login information

When you go to log in to your security system, make sure you have your credentials right. Your username and password need to be correct for the system to know who you are.

If you have changed or updated the password recently, ensure you are using the new one, not the old one. Too many failed attempts and you can get logged out. You may then need to call the security company to help you reset it.

3. Power failure

If all you see is a black screen with no indicator light then first check the power.

Maybe the breaker tripped or a power cable became loose. Check the power at both ends, the camera and the power source. It could be that the power was disconnected, or there is a faulty connection, and the cable/wire needs to be replaced.

Remember, with great power comes the ability to operate your system.

4. Networking issues

If there is power and everything looks good, check to see if there is an issue with the network. Take the camera off the network and determine if you can get the camera to work. If it does, then the network will be the culprit.

If the camera still doesn’t work, or only partially works while connected to the network, your security company should be able to assist you in fixing this problem.

5. Cable and wiring problems

As part of your regular maintenance, you should always check the cables. In the event of a camera failure, double-check them again to make sure that they have not been the target of rodents looking for a snack or someone attempting to damage them.

While many cameras can now be wireless, it is a great idea to check any camera-related cables you have, as well as the cameras for the rest of the system.

6. IP conflicts

When your wireless cameras are set up, they are given their designated internet protocol (IP) address. Every device should have its own, but should there be two devices on one address, this can cause an issue and conflict.

Once you have identified the different IP addresses for the cameras, you can then search to see what other devices share the IP address(s) and change it.

Another part of this issue is to check the ARP (address resolution protocol). This will not only help you in locating the IP addresses but will also display any other conflicting factors to be addressed.

If you are unsure how to do this, your security company can either locate the IPs for you or talk you through the process while you’re at home or work.

7. Outdated software and firmware

All security camera systems will require regular software and firmware updates to keep operating at optimal performance and speed. This is especially true for home security systems.

Make sure you haven’t missed any notifications about required updates. If you have, take a moment to run them and then recheck your cameras.

Depending on how old your cameras are, you might need to update them as well. Older technologies are not always compatible with newer software updates. Your security company will be able to advise you if the updates fail.

8. Time for a reboot

“Have you turned it off and on again?” is the most commonly used phrase in the IT support world. Some glitches just like to hang around and won’t clear until you do a full reboot of the system. Rebooting will remove any glitches and the majority of faults.

Make sure that when you turn off the system, all devices are shut down. Next, leave it this way for five minutes or more if possible. When you restart the system, ensure all your devices reconnect, and you get all the green lights.

9. Factory reset required

You have checked everything: the IP addresses, positioning, and cables, and rebooted the system. However, there is still something wrong with your cameras.

A factory reset may be required. This means you will lose any personalized settings you have implemented, but this will give you an idea of the problem. You can always reprogram your settings later once the issue has been addressed.

Fortunately, the majority of cameras come with their own reset button, so you do not have to reset the entire system.

Consider Getting Professional Help

There is nothing wrong with calling your security company. Not only do they install your system, but they are there to help and support you if you notice a problem with any part of the system.

Sometimes, they can fix the problem remotely. If they can’t, they can send someone to your rescue.

Canadian Security Professionals are your go-to experts, with 24/7 monitoring and expert help just a call away. We lead the industry with the latest technology and home security solutions, and we can have your cameras working again in no time. You can call us at 1-877-494-9911 for a free quote, or contact us online.

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