What is network video?

Network video, often referred to as IP-Surveillance for specific applications within security surveillance and remote monitoring, is a system which gives users the ability to monitor and record video over an IP network (LAN/WAN/Internet)

Unlike analog video systems, network video uses the network, rather than dedicated point-to-point cabling, as the backbone for transporting information. The term network video refers to both the video and audio sources available throughout the system. In a network video application, digitized video streams are transferred to any location in the world via a wired or wireless IP network, enabling video monitoring and recording from anywhere on the network.

Network video can be used in an almost unlimited number of situations; however, most of its uses fall into one of the following two categories:

• Security surveillance
  Network video's advanced functionality makes it highly suited to the applications involved in security surveillance. The flexibility of digital technology enhances security personnel’s ability to protect people, property and assets. Such systems are therefore an especially attractive option for companies currently using CCTV.
• Remote monitoring
  Network video gives users the ability to gather information at all key points of an operation and view it in real-time. This makes the technology ideal for monitoring equipment, people and places both locally and remotely. Application examples include traffic and production line monitoring, and the monitoring of multiple store locations.

The main vertical markets where network video systems have been successfully installed are:

• Education
  Security and remote monitoring of school playground areas, corridors, halls and classrooms, as well as security of the buildings themselves.  
• Transportation
  Remote monitoring of railway stations and tracks, highways and airports.  
• Banking
  Traditional security applications in high street banks, branch offices and ATM locations.  
• Government
  For surveillance purposes, to provide safe and secure public environments.
• Retail
  For security and remote monitoring purposes to make store management easier and more efficient.
• Industrial
  Monitoring manufacturing processes, logistic systems, warehouse and stock control systems.