Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV)
What is Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV)?
CCTV is a video surveillance system that captures, records, and displays camera feeds on a closed network for deterrence, real-time monitoring, and post-incident investigation.
Examples
- An office uses PoE IP cameras on a dedicated VLAN, recording 30 days of footage to an NVR; security reviews motion-flagged clips after alarms.
- A warehouse installs varifocal cameras with infrared (IR) illumination at loading bays; footage is exported with hashes and a chain-of-custody form for police.
Discover 🔎
CCTV provides eyes where people can’t be all the time. It deters opportunistic threats, helps operators respond in real time, and creates evidence when incidents occur. Modern systems are largely IP-based (network cameras streaming to a Video Management System), though legacy analog (coax to DVR) still exists. Good CCTV isn’t just lots of cameras—it’s clear views of the right places, reliable recording, and secure handling of footage.
Summary 📝
CCTV strengthens physical security by capturing, storing, and presenting reliable video where it matters most. Effective systems pair thoughtful placement and image quality with robust recording, clear retention and privacy rules, and strong cybersecurity on cameras and VMS. The result is useful real-time awareness and trustworthy evidence when incidents occur.
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