Do Security Cameras Record Without Internet? Understanding Offline Camera Footage
Learn if security cameras record without internet. Get facts, tips, and key details on how offline camera systems capture footage, with examples and expert advice.
NVR & DVR Storage: What You Need to Know for a Reliable Security System
When you set up a CCTV system, the biggest question after picking cameras is usually: where does all that video go? The answer depends on whether you use an NVR (Network Video Recorder) or a DVR (Digital Video Recorder). Both store footage, but they do it in different ways and each has its own pros and cons. Below we break down the basics, help you figure out how much space you’ll need, and point out the smartest ways to keep your videos safe without blowing your budget.
How NVR and DVR Storage Differ
An NVR works with IP cameras that send video over your network. It stores the data on a hard drive, SSD, or a network‑attached storage (NAS) device. Because the recording is already digital, you don’t have to worry about converting signals.
A DVR, on the other hand, talks to analog cameras that feed a raw video signal. The recorder converts that signal to digital and then writes it to its internal drives. This extra conversion step can add a tiny bit of delay, but many people still like DVRs for their lower upfront cost.
How Much Storage Do You Really Need?
Capacity planning starts with three numbers: camera resolution, frame rate, and how long you want to keep the footage. A 1080p camera at 15 fps uses roughly 1 GB per hour on a typical H.264 codec. If you have four cameras and need 30 days of storage, you’re looking at around 2.9 TB of space. Drop the resolution to 720p or reduce the frame rate to 10 fps, and you can cut that need in half.
For NVRs, you have the flexibility to add larger drives or even connect a NAS for petabytes of capacity. DVRs are usually limited to the slots built into the box, so plan for the maximum drive size they support.
Don’t forget to factor in future growth. Adding a camera later or switching to a higher resolution can double your storage requirements overnight.
Local vs. Cloud Storage: Which is Right for You?
Local storage (hard drives, SSDs, or NAS) gives you instant access, no monthly fees, and full control over your data. It’s ideal if you have a reliable power supply and can keep the recorder in a secure spot.
Cloud storage moves the video to a remote server. The upside is you can view footage from anywhere and you’re protected against theft or fire that destroys the on‑site drives. The downside is a recurring cost and reliance on a stable internet connection. Some hybrid systems let you keep a short‑term buffer locally and push older clips to the cloud.
If you’re on a tight budget, start with a decent local drive and add cloud backup only for the most critical cameras.
Tips to Get the Most Out of Your Storage
- Use motion‑activated recording. Instead of recording 24/7, set cameras to save video only when they detect movement. This can slash storage needs by 70‑90%.
- Choose efficient codecs. H.265 (HEVC) compresses video much better than H.264, letting you store more footage on the same drive.
- Set a clear retention policy. Decide whether you need 7, 30, or 90 days of video and configure your recorder to overwrite older files automatically.
- Regularly check drive health. Use the recorder’s health monitoring tools or run a simple SMART test every few months to avoid surprise failures.
- Consider RAID for redundancy. A RAID 1 (mirroring) or RAID 5 (parity) setup can keep your videos safe even if one drive dies.
By matching your camera count, resolution, and retention goals with the right storage type, you’ll get a reliable system that doesn’t waste money. Whether you go with an NVR and a big NAS, or a compact DVR with a few terabytes inside, the key is to plan ahead and keep an eye on how much video you actually need to keep.
Got more questions about NVR vs DVR storage? Our team at Birmingham Security Command Center can help you design a solution that fits your home or business perfectly. Reach out and we’ll walk you through the options, no jargon, just straight answers.
