When it comes to DIY business security cameras, usually the Cons outweigh the Pros. Unless you own a small business that only needs a few cameras, you have experience with wiring, or want to do a deep dive into learning the ins and outs of security camera configuration and installation, odds are you should ask a professional for help with installing a (that’s right) professional-grade security system. Although installation costs will most likely cost more than your system, you’ll have access to much better quality security cameras that offer more features, and longevity, and you’ll have support from your installer before, during, and long after the installation is complete. Here are some more cons of installing your own surveillance system:
You want complete control. Do you want to know all of the ins and outs of your security system? While professionals will be able to assist you with setting up each feature, you probably won’t have an opportunity to learn exactly how the features or cameras were configured. So if you have a lot of time on your hands and want to know every little thing about your security cameras, including how to repair them if any issues arise with your electronics or cabling, consider reading the instruction manual or going online to find out which DIY systems are the best to install yourself. (We recommend Nest, but this won’t work for every business due to the limitations these cameras have as far as features and connected cameras available.)
You’ll get the best advice. The best advice comes from wisdom, and the best wisdom comes from experience. Camera Security Now has been installing cameras for businesses around Ohio and the rest of the continental United States for over 30 years.
You have experience with wiring cat5e ethernet cables. Do you feel confident with running your own cabling for security cameras? This could save a large percentage of your total security camera budget when it comes to installation costs. If you can wire your own cameras, we recommend requesting a preconfigured security system. With a preconfigured system, your security cameras will arrive to you tested and configured in advance – with whichever features and specifications you require. In addition to receiving a ready-to-go surveillance package, you’ll also be able to consult with us on the installation process and have an opportunity for remote support once your system is up and running. If you’re not sure how confident you are, check out this guide for troubleshooting security camera failure due to cabling and other issues.
At the end of the day, if you know what you’re doing and only need a few security cameras, a DIY solution can work for you. However, if you don’t have any experience, prior knowledge, or need an extensive security system – it probably isn’t worth it to try to complete the job on your own.
Your business only needs a few security cameras. If your business only needs 2 or 3 cameras to monitor various entrances, exits, or other sensitive areas, sometimes it makes sense to install a system yourself. For example, Google Nest security cameras cost about the same as a professional-grade security camera (sans installation). As long as you feel confident enough to install a nest camera on your own, these surveillance cameras can offer basic features* that are enough for small businesses that don’t require a lot of security. (*Basic features: HD video, smart alerts, voice talk)
Consult with a Security Expert Today
Here we discuss the Pros and Cons of installing your own security cameras at your place of business.
While “you get what you pay for” has never been more true than when purchasing security cameras, sometimes the juice isn’t worth the squeeze. While professional-grade security cameras are becoming more advanced and affordable, consumer-grade security cameras have come a long way as well.
To contact Johnny and Camera Security Now directly over the phone, call 800-440-1662 or fill out a fast, easy online quote form.
No tech support will be available. When you have a professional like Camera Security Now install your cameras, you’ll receive free lifetime support if any issues should arise in the future. But if you install your own cameras, you’re on your own when any issues arise in the future (they always do eventually). Although you may be good with technology, you’re compromising time to troubleshoot your cameras when you could be running your business or doing something more productive with your time. And if you aren’t good with technology, you’ll be stuck reading how-to videos online until you can solve the problem yourself – and if you can’t solve it yourself, you’re going to have to pay for a security technician to come out anyway.
Pros of DIY Business Security Cameras
In most instances, it makes more sense to spring for professional installation. For example, when your business has large facilities, needs extensive security systems, or needs advanced features like facial recognition, access control, or the highest definition recording available.
Cons of Having Security Cameras Installed by a Professional
Although we almost always recommend using a professional-grade security system put in place by a certified installer, sometimes it just doesn’t work due to either budget, location, or time constraints. Here are a few instances in which having a security system professionally installed isn’t the best option:
One of our technicians, led by Johnny Beagle, will assist you every step of the way. We will start by giving you a free site survey, which helps us understand the best possible solution for you. Next, one of our technicians will walk you through what kind of cameras would work best for your business.
Cons of DIY Business Security Cameras
You have to work with your installer’s schedule. Obviously, when you order your own security system, you can start installing it as soon as it arrives. However, if you consult with a professional you’ll have to take the time to get a free consultation, get a free site visit, and schedule an installation date.
You aren’t an expert. Although you may have done all of the research required in selecting the very best consumer-grade security camera, you’ll never have enough time or videos to watch to make you as informed as a certified security camera installer. Assembling a security system is a lot different than assembling furniture from IKEA – and the instructions that come with DIY systems often don’t include all of the information necessary to effectively install, run, and maintain your surveillance cameras. On top of that, many consumer security camera retailers use tricky marketing terms to make you think their cameras perform better or have more features than they actually do.
Pros of Having Security Cameras Installed by a Professional

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