CCTV & Security
How to Choose a CCTV System for Your Home or Business in Kenya
Short answer
For most new installations, choose IP cameras with an NVR, 4 MP or higher resolution, good night vision, Power over Ethernet (PoE) cabling and remote viewing on your phone. Analogue HD systems can be a sensible lower-cost option when reusing existing coax cable. Place cameras at entrances, perimeters, parking and cash points, and size the hard drive for the days of recording you need.
IP vs analogue HD
| IP (network) cameras | Analogue HD cameras | |
|---|---|---|
| Recorder | NVR | DVR |
| Cable | Network cable (Cat6) with PoE | Coaxial plus power |
| Image quality | Higher resolution options, smart features | Good, usually lower than IP |
| Best for | New installs, larger or growing systems | Upgrading an existing coax system |
What to look for
- Resolution: 4 MP gives a good balance. Higher resolution helps for wide areas and reading plates, but needs more storage.
- Night vision: Infrared range suited to the distance, or colour night vision where there is some light.
- Weather rating: IP66 or better for outdoor cameras.
- Lens: Narrower lenses see far; wider lenses cover more area.
- Recorder and storage: Enough channels for growth and the right hard drive size. See CCTV storage.
- Remote viewing: Phone app access with secure passwords.
- Power backup: A small UPS keeps recording through short power cuts.
Where to place cameras
- Main gate and entrances, at face height as well as wide views.
- Driveways, parking areas and perimeter walls.
- Cash points, counters, stores and server rooms in businesses.
- Corridors and stairwells.
- Avoid pointing straight at the sun, bright lamps or glass.
Protect the system itself
Change default passwords, keep firmware updated, and keep recorders in a locked, ventilated place. Do not expose the recorder directly to the internet without proper security.
Plan before you buy
A site survey saves money by choosing the right number and type of cameras. See our CCTV installation service.
Common questions
How many cameras does a home need?
A typical house covers the gate, driveway, front door and back door with four cameras. Larger plots need more.
Can I watch my cameras on my phone?
Yes. Most modern recorders offer secure app access over the internet.
Do CCTV cameras work at night?
Yes, through infrared or colour night vision. Range depends on the camera and conditions.