Use Laptop as Security Camera: DIY Security Made Easy

Laptops are versatile computing devices with a wide range of features, including built-in cameras for online video meetings. While that's what these cameras are present in the laptop for, people often want to use laptop cameras as security cameras. Tons of DIY guides help you use your laptop this way. While things may work out, is it effective by any means, and is it a reliable solution? Stick with us and learn all the technicalities.

Can I Use My Laptop as a Security Camera?

Yes, it is possible to use your laptop as your security camera, and it is very effective in certain situations. However, before we move to those situations, you must understand that using your laptop as your security camera will require you to use some additional software. That software will enable you to use the special feature of wireless surveillance in the following situations:

• While you are working in a public space and need to leave your stuff instead of packing it or leaving it under a stranger's watch.
• When you are staying in a hotel or an Airbnb and want to ensure proper security of your stuff, especially when you are out.
• You want temporary indoor surveillance at your home while your main security cameras are malfunctioning.

How to Use a Laptop Camera as a Security Camera?

You first need to choose a laptop security camera app, and then you will set it up for wireless or wired operation. So, learn how to use a laptop camera as a security camera with our guide below:

Laptop security camera app

The part is selecting an application that turns your laptop's camera into the security camera, and our top picks are:

• AlfredCamera
• Contacam
• iSpy

Steps for turning the laptop into a security camera

Let's assume that you selected the AlfredCamera app to turn your laptop into a security camera. Now, you must follow the steps below to successfully get a wireless surveillance experience:

1. Visit the AlfredCamera WebViewer and click WebCamera
2. Turn your camera on and allow access to the microphone and camera (it may only ask for permission the first time).
3. Now, use another device to check the AlfredCamera video stream via WebView or download the app on your smartphone.

Now you will get the smart surveillance feature through your laptop's camera, and it also supports intuitive features like motion detection notifications.

Drawbacks of Using a Laptop as a Security Camera

Using a laptop as a security camera may come with many benefits, but it does have certain drawbacks as well. While it may be a great option in some use cases, it is not the perfect choice in every use case, and here are some drawbacks of using this system that you must be aware of:

Limited camera quality

The first major drawback is limited camera quality since most laptop cameras have low resolution, limited field of view, bad low-light performance, and no option to move to cover a large area. Hence, you will be unable to cover all important details for the best security.

High dependence on third-party software

Most laptops do not come with built-in software that allows such usability. So, your usage will be completely dependent on third-party software. It means that you are more vulnerable to limitations, bugs, security compromises, privacy, and system failure.

Physical security risks

There are a lot of physical security risks associated with this idea. For example, your laptop can be a theft target. Moreover, the laptop may face overheating and other durability problems due to harsh usage environments and being on 24/7.

Lack of power and networking efficiency

Replacing dedicated security cameras with laptops is never efficient in terms of power and networking. Bandwidth or connectivity issues with the laptop can lead to dropped connections or lag in the video feed.

With these drawbacks, if you want a reliable, secure, and better option then you must stick with your professional security cameras. They not only provide a better streaming experience but also provide several smart features that are unavailable when using a laptop as a security camera.

Professional security camera recommendation

So, if you don't want to make any compromises on your security surveillance that may come along when using a laptop as your security camera, going for professional security cameras is the right option. Here are our top 2 recommendations that you may consider when choosing a professional security camera.

Reolink Duo 3 PoE

The Duo 3 PoE is a professional security camera that takes care of everything you need. It has a UHD 16MP dual lens to give a 180-degree panoramic coverage view. Moreover, it packs smart features like color night vision and motion tracking. Its PoE technology ensures that you only need one wire for everything so the need to use multiple wires is not there anymore.

Reolink Duo 3 PoE

Groundbreaking 16MP Dual-Lens PoE Camera

16MP UHD, Dual-Lens, Motion Track, 180° Wide Viewing Angle, Power over Ethernet, Color Night Vision.

Learn More about Reolink Duo 3 PoE

Reolink Argus Track

Argus Track is another dual-lens professional security camera that offers convenience and peace of mind. It comes as a solar + battery-powered unit that connects over Wi-Fi, so you get complete wireless surveillance. Moreover, its 4K UHD lens provides crystal clear coverage while offering features like 6x zoom, tilt, pan, dual-band Wi-Fi connectivity, color night vision, and much more.

Reolink Argus Track

4K Dual-Lens Wi-Fi Solar/Battery Camera

4K 8MP Ultra HD, Auto-Zoom Tracking, Pan, Tilt & 6X Hybrid Zoom, Color Night Vision, Dual-Band Wi-Fi.

Learn More about Reolink Argus Track

FAQs

1. Can I use my laptop as a webcam?

Yes, you can use your laptop as a Webcam for other devices, including computers, other laptops, and smartphones. There are applications like EpocCam and DroidCam that help you stream the video from your laptop's camera to the device of your choice while utilizing USB or Wi-Fi as a transfer medium.

2. Can I use multiple cameras with my laptop for enhanced surveillance?

Yes, you can use multiple cameras with your laptop to improve surveillance. However, you may need some software like Blue Iris or iSpy for this system to work since adding additional IP cameras or webcams only will not work. It is also important to ensure that your laptop has hardware that is powerful enough to handle additional processing for the additional cameras.

Conclusion

Using a laptop as a security camera might seem like a very smart idea but it is not as efficient and reliable as using a dedicated professional security camera. There are multiple reasons why using a laptop as your security camera is not a great idea that outweighs the benefits that this system may bring. Hopefully, now you know both aspects of using laptops as security cameras, and you may decide to consider the best efficiency.

You can't feel the zooming process, no focusing time is needed, and you can focus even when the object moves quickly without blurring.