How To Build Your Own Security Camera System?

DIY security systems are perfect for anyone looking to protect your home and loved ones. However, with the ongoing cost of living crisis everyone is tightening their budget. This doesn’t mean home security has to be overlooked due to cost.

You’ll no longer have to opt for a professionally installed CCTV system which could set you back a few hundred pounds. Thankfully, DIY smart home security cameras are readily available today and for very reasonable prices so it’s not hard to find cheap outdoor security cameras.

If you’re worried about the set-up process, what to buy and how it works we’ll take you through exactly how to build your own home security system.

Step 1: Choosing your devices

First things first; choose the devices you need to make up your home security system.

To start with, assess where around your property you want to place security cameras. This will impact the type of device you’ll want to buy so you can look for a cheap outdoor security camera or indoor.

If you need a camera to monitor your front drive, a floodlight security camera might be a good choice. This will illuminate your drive and vehicles whenever motion is detected.

If you want to attach your camera to a shed for example, a battery-powered security camera will be a good choice so you won’t have to worry about powering the device.

If you need a camera inside your property, think about the size of the room and the angle the camera will need to cover. If it’s a large room then a rotating security camera will ensure you don’t miss anything.

Take into consideration whether you’ll have to drill holes into your property to power the camera. Remember, smart security cameras usually need a strong internet connection to function, make sure wherever you plan to place the camera will have an adequate WiFi signal.

If you want to record the footage your home security camera records you’ll need to think about storage. You have two main options here: local and cloud.

Local storage comes in the form of an SD card and varies in size and price. The only thing to consider here Is that I your camera is damaged or stolen then you won’t be able to recover that footage.

With Cloud storage you’ll need to a pay a monthly subscription fee weekly, monthly or annually to use the service. This means you can access your recordings from anywhere, anytime.

Step 2: Setting your system

The majority of smart home security cameras are manufactured with ease-of-setup in mind. Depending on where you want to place the camera you might need to drill some holes to feed power cables through, but this should be as complicated as it gets.

Your device will come complete with set-up instructions so follow these closely.

If the device utilises WiFi, make sure to have your password routers password handy.

Depending on where you’ve bought the security cameras, you’ll be able you’ll connect it Amazon Alexa, Google Home or the device may even have its own associated app. You’ll need to download the app from the App Store or Google Play store then follow then instructions to connect your devices to the app.

Step 3: Using your new home security system

Now you’ve got everything set up you’re ready to start using your new home security system. You’ll want to get the best out your new security network so makes sure you’re familiar with all the features you have access to.

Some of the features you can expect are:

Instant motion and audio alerts: With alerts set up directly to your smartphone, you’ll be notified any time movement or sound it detected so there’s no need for you keep checking your live feed.

Two-way audio: You can communicate with people at your property from wherever you are. Using the two-way talk function, you can check on your loved o ones or scare away intruders without putting yourself in harms way.

Customisable activity zones: Minimise false alerts by setting up activity zones to decide which areas of your property will trigger alerts.

Your home is now secure

After you’re all set and using your new security system you should hopefully feel safe and sound inside your home.

The best security systems have a mix of indoor and outdoor cameras as well as security alarms and smart tech such as WiFi plug sockets and bulbs.

And remember, you don’t need to spend top dollar to have an effective security system, you can get an indoor security camera for a reasonable price and a cheap outdoor security camera is easy to find.

Time2's family of simple yet clever, connected devices includes our Home Alarm System, indoor and outdoor home security cameras, smart bulbs and smart plug.