IP CCTV and door access control
Older CCTV systems often record to a box in a cupboard that nobody checks until something has happened. By then the footage is grainy, the camera was pointing the wrong way or the disk filled up months ago. Door access tends to be keys and codes that never change when staff leave.
I start with what you need to see and record, and who needs to get in where. Then I recommend and install IP cameras, such as UniFi Protect or Hikvision, on your network, so footage can be viewed securely from a phone or computer. Door access with UniFi Access replaces keys with fobs, cards or phone entry, managed from one place. Footage can be kept on a recorder on site or in the cloud.
Cameras and door readers run over your network, so it’s worth checking your WiFi and network can carry them.
What it involves
Advice on coverage
A walk round the site to agree what each camera needs to see, at what level of detail, and how long footage should be kept.
IP camera installation
UniFi Protect or Hikvision cameras cabled, mounted and set up on your network, with recording checked and storage sized for how long you keep footage.
Remote viewing
Live and recorded footage available on your phone or computer, set up securely so the cameras aren’t left open to the internet.
Door access control
UniFi Access readers on the doors that need them, with fobs, cards or phone entry, and access removed in one step when someone leaves.
Questions about CCTV or door access
Is IP CCTV worth it over an older analogue system?
For most businesses, yes. IP cameras give clearer pictures, run over standard network cable, and are easier to view remotely and to add to later. If your analogue system still does the job, I’ll tell you so, and it can be replaced when the time is right.
Can I view the cameras from my phone?
Yes. UniFi Protect and Hikvision both have apps for live and recorded footage. I set up remote viewing securely, with proper accounts and passwords, so the cameras can be reached by you and not by anyone scanning the internet for open ones.
What happens to door access when someone leaves?
Their fob, card or phone access is removed from one screen and stops working straight away. There’s no need to collect keys or change codes, and the system keeps a record of who opened which door and when, which helps if there’s ever a question.
Related services
Business WiFi and networks
Networks and WiFi planned around your building and how your staff work, with secure links between sites and for home workers.
Structured cabling and building works
Data cabling and office moves, with advice before building work starts on where everything should go.
Network and cyber security
The basics that stop most attacks, done properly: firewalls and UTMs, network separation, access rights and endpoint protection with EDR.
Interested in CCTV or door access?
