Video surveillance is an effective way to secure your home. It’s also the easiest and most cost-effective, saving you hundreds on homeowner’s insurance.

Digital security cameras increase the value of your preexisting alarm system. They add an extra layer of protection by monitoring your home 24 hours a day.

The presence of a camera like this reduces the risk of theft and damage to your property. That’s more than enough reason to install one. But first, you’ll need to learn how.

When it comes to protecting a home, there’s no better method than digital surveillance. Here’s how to install a digital security camera.

Decide Where to Install Your Digital Security Camera

You might not be able to install a camera in every desired location in your home. Save yourself some time and money, and survey your home first. Pick and mark the hot spots – the zones you want and can install a camera.

After you’ve chosen some viable installation points, make sure there’s nothing obstructing the view. Check for things like:

• Trees
• Tall fences
• Spotlights – LED lights on a neighbor’s property could blind your security camera if it’s pointed at it
• Dim areas – Zones around the house without outside light

Some common locations to watch are the doors, driveways, and backyard views. Double check the lighting in these areas, label them, then gather what you need.

Gather Your Tools and Prepare for Installation

Most digital cameras come with standard packaging and instructions. Before you plunge right into the job, gather your tools and organize everything you need.

If this is your first installation, keep it simple. You’ll need two or three cameras, a digital recording device (DVR), ethernet cables, draw tape, and a computer.

Depending on where you’re installing the camera, you’ll also need some basic tools. Make sure you have a working drill with drill bits and some masking tape. You might need other tools along the installation, but these are the basics.

Install the Equipment

As with any new product, before you drill anything, test your equipment first. Connect your equipment then plug each one into a power source. Make sure they power up and all light indicators work as they should.

Your DVR will store and record all video surveillance. Test it against whatever computer or TV you’ll be using to watch the recordings.

Also, DVRs have different memory capacities. Be sure you’ve selected a surveillance kit with a DVR that fits your monitoring strategy. If your goal is around the clock recording, choose a DVR with 24-hour recording capability.

After you’ve tested the equipment:

1. Choose a convergence location (where all the cables will converge).
2. Drill holes for your cameras’ cables (if necessary).
3. Run the cables to each of your cameras’ locations. Use the draw tape (fish tape) to run cables to your converging location (only for inaccessible locations).
4. Run cables to your DVR box.
5. Mount and install the cameras. Attach the cables from step three to your cameras. Then use your drill and mounting screws to mount the cameras where you want it.
6. Connect everything else. Once you’ve mounted and connected the cameras, running cables to the DVR is smooth sailing. It’s a matter of securing the cables into the device then plugging them into a power source.

At this point, you’re done, except for setting up a username and password for the system interface.

Note, you’ll need time and patience for the first three steps. Take your time to avoid creating double work for yourself. Make adjustments as needed.

Set up a Camera

Installing a digital security camera ensures your family’s and your property’s safety.

Shop the market for a digital surveillance kit that suits your needs and the needs of your household.

Check out our nanny camera advice for more ways to secure your home!