What Are DVR Security Systems And How Do They Work?

Standing for a digital video recorder, DVR security systems allow you to record footage captured from a CCTV security camera, and watch it back on demand.

What Are DVR Security Systems And How Do They Work?

This level of security is super beneficial for any home, business, or premises where security needs to be top-notch because the threat of invasion is real.

In this article, we will explain, in great detail, exactly what DVR security systems are and how they operate.

Whether you’re interested in protecting your home and family or your beloved business – you’ll be ready to protect your premises today and feel more at ease tomorrow.

What Is A DVR Security System?

A digital video recorder is tasked with the all-important responsibility of recording footage to, in essence, identify thieves and assailants (hopefully before they’ve done their dirty work).

They are especially useful in a court of law when a perpetrator needs to be brought to justice – there is no better proof than a video recording of a person being caught in the act.

Businesses are especially vulnerable without an up-to-date DVR security system.

When your livelihood is at stake, it will certainly pay to back up your DVR data on a regular basis. Why?

Because this will safeguard you in the untimely event of a break-in that may result in both damages to your property and theft.

The best digital video recorders of today are now capable of collecting footage from multiple CCTV security cameras simultaneously.

These modern tools of the security trade are known as multi-channel recorders, recording 16 CCTV cameras at one time and helping to make your business safe.

Their in-built hard drives allow you to store this vital footage, while the most technically advanced systems even come app-compatible.

Their live streams now enable you to monitor your home or business while away from the premises, giving you 24/7 eyes on the ground.

What Is the Difference Between A DVR And An NVR?

You may have heard or seen the abbreviation “NVR” in the security industry before and wondered whether it had any relation to DVRs?

In essence, yes, they are both video recorders.

However, an NVR (network video recorder) is the technologically advanced option of the two.

Where DVRs are unable to store and record video footage captured from CCTV, an NVR has the ability to do both of these things on its lonesome.

It does require a stable internet connection to function, but the associated benefits of this modern technology mean most high-end security firms now use strictly NVR systems.

The difference lies in the camera.

DVR systems use analog cameras which process footage through a cable, whereas NVRs store footage that their cameras encode.

Both security systems work just fine, but if you’re willing, able, and happy to splash more cash on security then NVRs are the superior system.

What Are The Pros And Cons Of A DVR Security System?

What Are The Pros And Cons Of A DVR Security System?

Now that you know what a DVR security system is, it’s time to take a look at its pros and cons.

Yes, DVR systems may be considered outdated when compared to NVRs.

However, don’t discount them just yet, their time-honored success in the security industry is a testament to how reliable DVR systems are.

Pros Of A DVR Security System

Cost-Effective Setup

Perfect for small business owners and homeowners alike, regular DVRs come with a more stomachable price tag when compared to NVR and other hybrid cloud systems.

However, this will depend on how many security cameras you need to be implemented as well as whether a professional is required for installation.

Or, if you’re willing and able to give the installation a go yourself.

Secure Connection

Tying in nicely with their time-honored legs, a DVR system is akin to a reliable workhorse.

Unlike more techie systems, a DVR is not reliant on a good internet connection to work, all they need is a power source.

This makes them particularly useful in remote locations and any kind of premises where internet supply is thin.

Sticking to DVR also ensures that your security system can’t be hacked, and no business owner can argue with that.

Instant Access

Because DVRs are hardwired with real-life cables to CCTV cameras, they are able to instantly store footage.

This footage can then be watched by you or a security officer as soon as it’s being recorded.

Modern Features

Yes, even though DVRs are thought to be inferior when compared to tech-centric NVRs, they are continuing to be modernized in their own right.

Modern features like motion detection and time stamping capabilities are now becoming the norm for DVRs.

This will go a long way in ensuring they remain relevant and up to date moving forward into the future of security.

Cons Of A DVR Security System

Maintenance Fees

The trouble with DVRs is when there’s a defect or glitch, it’s typically a hardware issue and not a software one.

This not-so-fun fact essentially equates to higher maintenance fees.

Low Image Quality

It’s often true that you get what you pay for in life, and although they are being modernized, DVRs still lack high image quality (unlike NVRs).

And unfortunately, lower image quality could be the difference between identifying a suspect or not.

Storage Capacity

DVRs are trustworthy tools of security, there’s no argument there, but where they are lacking the most is storage.

Compared to internet-driven systems which have access to storage clouds, DVR hard drives pale in comparison in terms of storage capacity.

Conclusion

As you can see, DVR security systems will certainly protect your premises, but they do come with their flaws and potential setbacks.

For anyone who is lacking in good internet and wants to keep their security costs down, then an old and faithful DVR will go a long way in keeping your place safe.

David Jones