The shift from analog to Internet Protocol (IP) surveillance cameras has changed the way that video surveillance systems are built.

Instead of running lengths of coax cable from multiplexers out to cameras, an IP-based surveillance system involves plugging the cameras into an Ethernet Local Area Network (LAN).

There are numerous benefits to using an IP-based system, including simplified cabling, power reticulation over the cabling, native digital video, and greater camera control. Taking full advantage of these benefits requires making the right choices in the configuration of the underlying Ethernet LAN.

In addition, using an Ethernet LAN presents its own challenges, as it is a significantly more intelligent and
dynamic environment than a collection of coax cables.

In order to maximize system capabilities and avoid potential pitfalls, installers need to have an understanding of the best practices in configuring Ethernet network infrastructure within a video surveillance system.

This white paper explains the top 14 best practice guidelines. These guidelines have been honed through the many years of experience that Allied Telesis have in working with customers to create robust, high performance video surveillance networks.

Allied Telesis equipment is used in successful surveillance networks all over the world.

Examples include:

• city-wide installations comprising thousands of cameras
• systems operating in harsh railway-network environments
• prison surveillance systems
• security networks for major international sporting events
• smaller installations in malls, schools, offices, hospitals, and more

The best practices listed here fall into four broad areas. Each has a core motivation or “goal”

• Goal 1: Minimize data loss
• Goal 2: Maintain security
• Goal 3: Maximize flexibility
• Goal 4: Future-proof the network

Each of these four goals has a brief introduction, explaining its significance to video surveillance systems, which is then followed by the individual pieces of advice or “tips” that fall within the goal.

There are 14 tips altogether, which if followed, lead to the best possible video surveillance solutions. Excellent outcomes are achieved by getting the details right at every level.

The goals and tips range across all aspects of network design, from where to locate switches, right down to the finer details of protocol configuration.