How to Connect Security Camera to Wi-Fi? Step-by-Step Guide

Jul 10
02:01

2024

Viola Kailee

Viola Kailee

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After buying a Wi-Fi camera, people struggle to connect it to their home or office Wi-Fi. And without a stable connection, it can't work. In this article, we will explain how you can connect a security camera to Wi-Fi. We will show the step-by-step process of connecting a camera. We will discuss how you can configure it and connect it to a new or existing Wi-Fi network. We will highlight some issues and how you can troubleshoot them.

Is it Easy to Connect a Security Camera to Wi-Fi?

It actually depends on the security camera. Most of the IP cameras are quite easy to configure and connect to the Wi-Fi. Some have really complicated processes.

But once you understand how it should be done and look at the steps or a tutorial,How to Connect Security Camera to Wi-Fi? Step-by-Step Guide Articles you can connect to the Wi-Fi without any hassle, given that there is no issue with the camera or the network itself.

Choosing Reliable Wi-Fi Cameras Before Connection

You also need a reliable security camera that can offer a reliable and fast connection. Here are a couple of recommendations.

Dual-band Wi-Fi Security Camera - Reolink Argus PT

Reolink Argus PT is a battery-powered Wi-Fi security camera that captures everything in 2K+ resolution for optimal details and clarity. With its pan and tilt, it can cover a massive area. At night and in low-light conditions, it offers color night and black-and-white night vision, and you can choose any of them. It can detect persons, vehicles, and pets automatically and send real-time alerts to your devices.

Pros:

  • AI detection for persons, vehicles, and pets
  • Dual-band Wi-Fi camera that offers a stable and fast connection
  • Deters intruders via a built-in siren and spotlights
  • Multiple storage options
  • Can be powered using a solar panel

Cons:

  • Not IP rated but weatherproof

Wi-Fi 6 Security Camera - Reolink Argus 4 Pro

Reolink Argus 4 Pro is a state-of-the-art Wi-Fi 6 camera that ensures blazing-fast speed without any lag. It has a dual lens to capture a 180⁰ wide view and eliminate any blind spots. It contains Reolink ColorX technology that offers 4K all-day color night vision. It unveils true colors even in the dimmest lights.

Pros:

  • Extremely easy to connect and install
  • Covers a wider area and captures more details due to its wide field of view
  • 30% more battery life and longer stand-by duration compared to IR cameras
  • Enhanced AI detection to offer accurate real-time alerts
  • IP66 weatherproof to work in all conditions

Cons:

  • Minimal distortion to stitching of images

How to Connect Security Camera to Wi-Fi?

The Wi-Fi connection process of cameras from different brands requires distinct steps to follow. However, they are nearly the same if you are using the app to connect them.

Here, we are taking Reolink Wi-Fi cameras as an example to learn how to connect a security camera to a Wi-Fi network.

Before you follow the steps, make sure your camera is powered on or connected to the adapter. If it is a rechargeable camera, recharge it before getting started.

How to Connect My Security Camera to Wi-Fi?

Step 1: Download the Reolink application from the Play Store or App Store.

Step 2: Open the app and tap the "+" button at the top right corner.

Step 3: Scan the QR code of the device through your smartphone.

Step 4: You will see multiple options. Tap "Choose Wi-Fi Connection" to configure the settings. Tap Next.

Step 5: Once you hear the voice prompt from the camera, tap Next.

Step 6: Select the Wi-Fi network. Enter the credentials to connect. Tap Next.

Step 7: You will have a QR code on the app. Scan it using the camera lens. You will hear a beep sound; tap Next.

Step 8: You will hear, "Connection to the router succeeded." Tap Next.

Step 9: Create the login password and set the name for the camera. Complete the initialization setup.

How to Reconnect My Security Camera to Another Wi-Fi?

Step 1: Launch the Reolink application.

Step 2: You will see the connected cameras there. Tap the settings icon.

Step 3: Tap Network.

Step 4: You will see all the available Wi-Fi networks. Select the one you want and enter the password.

You have successfully connected your camera to a new Wi-Fi network.

How to Connect Camera to a Wi-Fi That Has Not Been Configured?

Step 1: Install the antennas of the camera and power it up using its adapter.

Step 2: Use the given Ethernet cable to connect the camera to the router.

Step 3: Open the Reolink app. Tap the "+" button at the top right corner.

Step 4: Scan the QR code at the back of the camera.

Step 5: Create a login password. Tap Next.

Step 6: Name the camera and tap Next. Set up your Wi-Fi by entering the password.

Step 7: Tap Finish.

Why Won't My Security Camera Connect to My Wi-Fi?

If you can't connect your security camera to the Wi-Fi after following the steps, try these troubleshooting tips to resolve the issue.

Power: Check the power of the camera. Make sure it is connected to an adapter or fully charged if it is a battery-powered camera.

Antenna Connection: Connect the antennas of the Wi-Fi camera properly to receive signals.

Wi-Fi Range: The camera should be within the Wi-Fi range to connect to it. Try changing its location.

Wrong Password: Make sure you are entering the right password for the Wi-Fi. Try resetting the Wi-Fi password once and then connect again.

Frequency Band: Not all cameras can work on 5GHz, so try 2.4GHz for the connection. Ensure whether the camera is single band or dual band.

Reset: If the problem still persists, you can try resetting it. There is a reset button at the back of the camera. Follow the guide of the manufacturer to reset the device.

FAQs

How to tell if a camera is connected to your Wi-Fi?

Go to the camera applications and tap on the settings of the camera. Go to Network. Here, you will see the name of the Wi-Fi your camera is connected to.

Do home security cameras have to be connected to Wi-Fi?

Wi-Fi cameras need to be connected to the Wi-Fi for networking. Otherwise, they won't be able to offer the features such as remote view, real-time alerts, etc. But if you have a 4G LTE camera, it won't need a Wi-Fi connection as it works on a SIM card. Another option would be a PoE camera as it uses an Ethernet cable for networking.

Final Words

You can connect a security camera to Wi-Fi on your own by following a few simple steps. It is a DIY process for most cameras. We have explained the step-by-step process you can follow. You can set up the camera initially and then connect it to a new Wi-Fi. You can also change the Wi-Fi connection of the camera to a new one. Check out the troubleshooting tips we have shared to resolve any issues. And if you are looking for a security camera that is easy to install and connect to Wi-Fi, you can go with Reolink cameras.