Network devices (computers, cameras, NVRs/DVRs, printers, etc.) need to be on the same network scheme as the router. This means that for a router with an IP address of “192.168.1.1” the first octet is “192”, second octet is “168”, third octet is “1”, and the fourth octet is “1”. Think of each octet as a specific unit of a house address - first octet is the country, second is the city, third is the street, and fourth is the house number. IP addresses are a combination of numbers, or a scheme that consists of 4 sets of numbers separated by “dots.” Each set of number is considered an “octet.”Īn IP address scheme may look like a complex set of numbers, but the concept is quite simple. IP addresses allow devices to talk to each other on a network.

Understanding How IP Addresses Work What is an IP address? LAN IP AddressĮach device, whether it’s a router, camera or NVR, has an IP address. If you have a cable modem that has a built-in router, its WAN port will be a cable coming from the ISP that could be a coaxial cable if you have a cable modem. Port forwarding is the process of creating rules or exceptions in the router's firewall to allow specific types of requests from the internet to access specific devices on your network. All router's have some sort of a firewall to prevent unauthorized access from the internet (WAN) in to your local network (LAN). The LAN port is used for other network devices, such as computers, IP cameras or NVRs to connect to. The Internet connection coming from the modem connects to the router’s WAN port. Modems DO NOT have a Firewall, so in a setup where you connect a DVR straight to a modem, you will want to make sure you change your password in order to remain secure.Ī router has a WAN port and also a LAN (Local Area Network) port. Your Internet modem supplies an external IP (Internet Protocol) address or WAN (Wide Area Network) to your router. Security camera networking on a network with one router is not overly technical nor difficult, so hang in there! This article will help you understand basic computer networking, how it applies to your security camera system, and how you can be in complete control of remote viewing your system without any monthly charges besides what you pay your Internet service provider (ISP).įirst, we’ll talk about the differences between an Internet modem and a router. Knowing how to network your security cameras is crucial to installing and establishing Internet connectivity to your security camera system.

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