By: Damion Dick
CCTV systems can now be bought online or in stores and is no longer exclusive to installation professionals and wholesale distributers.
This means that a lot of average Joes are going to be installing CCTV systems themselves and if you are one of them, Good for You!!!
Now that the deed is done, here are some tips to make sure you system is secure while you view it from your internet connected devices.
Secure your DVR/NVR
Follow these steps to secure your DVR/NVR:
- Check Password – Ensure that you change the password from the one it came with. Some manufacturers enable forced password change upon start-up (activation).Make sure you have a strong password/passphrase in accordance with password best practices -> 10 characters, Upper case, Lowercase, Numbers and Symbols.
- Check Firmware – Ensure your DVR/NVR is up to date with the latest firmware from the manufacturer. Each System will be different so consult your manual for directions.
- Check Recording status – Navigate your system to the Storage/Recording section and make sure that recording is turned on or set to a schedule. Once confirmed do a test (see manual for your device)
- Also if your DVR/NVR has it, enable the Intrusion Prevention on the device. This will set a limit to the amount of times someone can enter an incorrect password/login credential.
Secure Your Router
Often overlooked is the network router. This is your DVR/NVRs access to the internet and your connection to your system when you are home and away.
- Make sure that your router password (not the Wi-Fi password) is not set to default; in other words, if you never changed it before DO SO NOW!!! Usually it would be admin: admin but if not google it or check out https://www.routerpasswords.com/
- Also like the DVR/NVR, check the router firmware (see manual for your router) and make sure it is up to date.
Check your APP
Firstly, make sure you are using the manufacturer’s recommended application otherwise you can experience some weird issues and have a bad experience all together.
Next, Ensure your App is up to date. In most apps you can go to a “Check for Updates” tab, find yours and make sure it gets done. These updates usually have security and bug fixes.
Make sure your notifications are turned “ON”. Consult your start-up guide for directions as each app varies and there may be additional things to do in addition to enabling it on the application.
Please keep in mind when it comes to CCTV do not take a “set it and forget it” approach. Every now and then make a check and see if the firmware needs updating that may enable a new feature or if there is a new update for your app. Check the users that have access and make sure that they are who you allowed that access. Do regular physical maintenance (every three months or so) to clean the camera lenses, etc.
Hope these tips help you in your D.I.Y. journey and keep you and your system secure.
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