What the terms actually mean
Traditional CCTV cameras send an analogue video signal over coaxial cable to a digital video recorder (DVR). IP cameras are small networked computers that capture digital video and send it over standard network cabling to a network video recorder (NVR), or store it internally.
Both record and display footage. The practical differences are in image quality, cabling, expansion and cost.
Image quality and detail
Analogue systems top out at resolutions that struggle with fine detail at distance. IP cameras commonly deliver several times that resolution, which is what makes face identification and number-plate detail realistic rather than theoretical. If your purpose is deterrence and general observation, analogue can still do the job; if you may need evidence-grade footage, IP is the safer choice.
Cabling and expansion
IP cameras run on the same structured cabling as your office network and can often be powered over that same cable (PoE), so adding a camera can mean adding one cable point. Analogue cameras each need coaxial cable back to the recorder plus separate power. For new fit-outs, IP usually installs cleaner and expands cheaper; for a small shop with four fixed cameras, analogue can still be cost-effective.
A sensible upgrade path
If you already have an analogue system, you do not need to rip it out. Many businesses run existing cameras until they fail and add IP cameras for new coverage, then migrate fully when the recorder is due for replacement. A staged plan costs less and avoids a working system being discarded for no reason.
Planning this for your own premises? Explore our CCTV & Video Surveillance service, or send us your requirements directly.
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