Are Commercial Outdoor Cameras Worth It for Your Business?
Businesses today face more threats than ever before, including theft, burglary, and organized retail crime (ORT). ORT is costing retailers $700,000 per $1 billion in sales on average. As such, outdoor security is no longer a luxury; it’s a necessity. Whether you are safeguarding a small storefront, a sprawling warehouse, or a retail establishment, cameras are critical to your success.
The best outdoor commercial security cameras can monitor high-risk areas in real-time with advanced features like motion detection. Here is everything you need to know about why these cameras matter, how to choose the right ones, and why Deep Sentinel’s AI-powered systems are changing the game for business protection.
Why Outdoor Commercial Security Cameras Are Essential for Your Business
Does your business need security cameras? The answer is a resounding yes. Protecting your perimeter is just as important as securing what’s inside. Parking lots, building entrances, delivery zones, and loading docks are often prime targets for criminal activity.
Monitoring these areas with outdoor commercial security cameras creates a first line of defense to deter bad actors before they ever set foot inside. Take a closer look at the advantages that come with optimizing your outdoor commercial security cameras’ setup.
Deter Crime and Gather Evidence
An outdoor security camera system with features like night vision and motion detection provides an excellent deterrent against crime. When potential thieves or vandals spot cameras inside or along the outer perimeter of your business, they may think twice before trying to gain entry.
If an incident does occur, your surveillance cameras can provide critical evidence for investigations and insurance claims. Point of entry (POE) cameras are particularly useful, as they can offer a direct view of thieves as they make entry.
Safeguard Staff and Customers
Beyond theft prevention, outdoor surveillance systems play a major role in keeping your employees and customers safe. Business owners frequently use dome cameras and bullet cameras to provide visibility of the exterior of their facilities.
Additionally, commercial surveillance can help protect workers as they walk to their vehicles at night or as customers come and go from your place of business.
Worry Less
The best outdoor commercial security cameras help you feel at ease when you are away from the office. Want to check in on the store and see how employees are doing? Simply log in to your cloud storage system, and you can access high-resolution footage from inside and outside your business.
What Are the Best Outdoor Commercial Security Cameras for Your Business?
Not all surveillance solutions are built the same. When evaluating the best outdoor commercial security cameras, look for key features that ensure reliability, durability, and real-time responsiveness, including:
- Weatherproof Housing: Offers IP65 or higher ratings
- HD Resolution: Provides 1080p for minimum clarity footage or 4K for high-detail areas
- Night Vision: Has 24/7 coverage in low-light conditions
- Motion Detection: Alerts when activity is detected
- Two-Way Audio: Allows communication with visitors or intruders
- AI Detection: Filters out false alarms caused by wind, animals, or shadows
It can also help to consider popular camera choices with solid reputations.
Here are some of today’s best outdoor commercial security cameras:
- Deep Sentinel Cameras: AI-powered, with live guard monitoring and immediate intervention
- Arlo Pro 4: Wireless, weatherproof, with HDR video and a built-in spotlight
- Nest Cam IQ Outdoor: Smart alerts and facial recognition with crisp video quality
- Ring Stick Up Cam: Flexible mounting and cloud video storage that’s ideal for SMBs
One of the biggest considerations is whether you want wired or wireless cameras. Wired systems are generally more stable and less vulnerable to signal loss. They can be a good fit if you need to cover a huge property. On the other hand, wireless options are easier to install and relocate. They provide great flexibility with minimal infrastructure changes.
Choosing the best security camera technology is a critical first step. However, when selecting business security cameras, you also need to consider factors such as whether the provider offers support, monitoring, and other add-on services.
How to Set Up Your Outdoor Commercial Security Cameras
Here are five simple steps for handling your outdoor commercial security cameras’ setup:
Step 1: Assess Your Security Needs
Conduct an audit of your business. Pay attention to high-risk areas like parking lots, entrances, cargo areas, and dimly lit sections of your property. Consider which areas are riskiest based on your business hours.
If your business opens after sunup and closes well before dark, you can focus most of your cameras on entrances and parking areas. However, if your company has extended hours, you’ll need cameras to cover dimly lit spaces, cargo areas, and anywhere else criminals may lurk.
Commercial security camera systems aren’t just about keeping people out. They’re also a tool for protecting employees and customers as they come and go.
Step 2: Choose the Right Cameras
Select models with features that match your use case. For instance, weatherproof pan-tilt-zoom (PTZ) systems provide wide coverage, while video surveillance systems with remote viewing and color night vision are vital for monitoring your business after dark.
Keep in mind that you can incorporate different types of cameras into your system, provided they are all from the same manufacturer, or at the very least, compatible. You can use dome cameras for areas where you need 360-degree coverage, PTZ options for viewing wide angles, and bullet cameras for tight corners.
Step 3: Camera Placement
Mount cameras at key locations like:
- Entrances and exits
- Loading docks
- Dumpster/rear access zones
- Parking lots
- Perimeter fences
Use angles that minimize blind spots and avoid obstructions like signage or foliage. The goal is to achieve optimal coverage while using as few cameras as possible. However, don’t hesitate to add an extra PTZ camera or turret where necessary to ensure you’ve covered all of your bases.
Step 4: Install and Connect Cameras
Once you’ve identified where you want your cameras, it’s time to set them up. If you are using a wired system, ensure that the cabling is protected from weather and tampering. You don’t want a thief to be able to sneak in and simply cut a wire. If you are using wireless systems, make sure you’ve got a strong Wi-Fi connection.
Cameras that are outside of your business are perhaps at the greatest risk for vandalism or tampering. If possible, cover them with tamper-proof enclosures. Make sure you invest in a high-quality cover so that it doesn’t distort image quality.
Step 5: Test and Configure Cameras
Adjust the field of view and angle of each camera to ensure they are pointed where you need them. You can also customize the sensitivity and alert settings of your devices to reduce the risk of false alarms. If your system allows, label each camera so that you can quickly orient yourself to the area you’re looking at.
Benefits of Real-Time Monitoring for Your Business Security
To unlock the full benefits of security cameras for your business, you also need real-time monitoring capabilities with verified responses. Such a system can help you stop threats before they escalate.
Key advantages of real-time monitoring include:
- Instant Notifications: You’ll know as soon as a threat to your business emerges
- Live Guard Intervention: A guard will speak up and intervene if they see a threat
- AI That Gets Smarter: AI will become more efficient at differentiating between threats and false alarms
These advanced features aren’t available with typical home security cameras. They’re only offered in commercial-grade systems designed for outdoor use in places like retail stores, warehouses, and industrial facilities. You’ll have remote access to video footage from your smartphone and can make sure your business is safe 24/7, no matter where you are.
Additional Outdoor Security Measures for Your Business
Outdoor cameras work best when they’re part of a complete security strategy. Consider adding:
- Security Lighting: Illuminated areas discourage loitering and improve video quality
- Access Control Systems: Control who enters your property and keep unwanted visitors out
- Perimeter Fencing and Alarms: Detect when someone is trying to enter your property and make it hard for them to gain entry with physical barriers, alarms, and motion detectors
Want to learn more about how to protect your business? Check out our commercial business security checklist.
Why Choose Deep Sentinel for Your Outdoor Business Security?
Deep Sentinel offers specialized options for clients in various industries, including retail security solutions. If you’re searching for a truly proactive security system, here’s why Deep Sentinel stands out:
- Live Guard Monitoring: Real humans responding to threats, not just notifications
- AI-Powered Detection: Actual risks identified, not just motion
- Real-Time Alerts: No delays, no guesswork
- Scalable Systems: Flexible packages to meet the needs of your business, big or small
- Cost-Effective: Expert-level protection without the high cost of on-site security staff
With Deep Sentinel, you receive exceptional protection that goes beyond standard CCTV systems. Embrace the cutting-edge to stop threats in their tracks.
Explore the Best Outdoor Commercial Security Cameras
If you’re looking to effectively protect your employees, assets, and property, investing in the best outdoor commercial security cameras is absolutely worth it. Deep Sentinel’s AI-powered virtual security guards and real-time monitoring offer a proactive approach to security that can deter intruders and keep your staff safe.
Ready to upgrade your business security? Contact Deep Sentinel to explore our cutting-edge outdoor security solutions and protect your business today.
Commercial Outdoor Security Cameras FAQs
FAQ about Commercial Security Cameras
How many cameras do I need for my business premises?
The number of cameras required depends on various factors, including the size of your premises, the areas you want to monitor, and your specific security needs. Conducting a thorough security assessment can help determine the optimal number of cameras for adequate coverage.
The good news: Deep Sentinel’s team of experts are now offering free in-depth security assessments for businesses! Request your assessment here.
Can I access the camera feed remotely?
Yes, most commercial security cameras offer remote access capabilities. With the right software or mobile app, you can view live camera feeds, playback recordings, and manage settings from anywhere using your smartphone, tablet, or computer with an internet connection.
Are commercial security cameras weatherproof?
Many commercial outdoor cameras are designed to withstand various weather conditions. Look for cameras with weatherproof ratings (such as IP65 or higher) to ensure they can withstand exposure to rain, snow, heat, and cold.
Can commercial security cameras be integrated with other security systems?
Yes, many commercial security cameras are designed to integrate with other security systems such as access control systems, alarm systems, and video management software. This integration allows for a more comprehensive and centralized security solution.
Are commercial security cameras easy to install and maintain?
The ease of installation and maintenance depends on the specific camera model and your requirements. Some cameras are designed for simple DIY installation, while others may require professional installation. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning lenses and checking connections, is important to ensure optimal performance.
Can commercial security cameras record audio?
Some commercial security cameras have built-in microphones for audio recording, while others may require an additional audio device to capture sound. However, it’s important to comply with local laws and regulations regarding audio recording in your area.
Can commercial security cameras be monitored 24/7?
Yes, commercial security cameras can be set up for 24/7 monitoring. This can be achieved through various methods, such as hiring security personnel to monitor the camera feeds in real-time, or using Deep Sentinel’s AI-powered live guard service.
Are there privacy concerns with commercial security cameras?
Privacy concerns should be taken into consideration when installing commercial security cameras. It’s important to comply with local privacy laws and regulations and inform employees and customers about the presence of surveillance cameras. Proper camera placement and privacy protection measures can help address these concerns.
Need a Solution that Prevents Crime?
Deep Sentinel is the only security technology that delivers the experience of a personal guard on every customer’s home and business. Visit deepsentinel.com/business or call 833-983-6006