Building a Surveillance System That Works

Security cameras are only as good as the network that powers them. In today’s connected world, businesses rely on surveillance systems not just to record events, but to enable real-time monitoring, remote access and responsive alerts. Whether you're overseeing a single storefront or managing multiple facilities, a reliable surveillance setup is essential—and that reliability hinges on the strength of your network.

The evolution of surveillance technology

Traditionally, CCTV systems required coaxial cables and dedicated infrastructure to capture and transmit footage. While effective, these systems lacked the flexibility and scalability needed for modern businesses. The rise of wireless networking paved the way for smarter, more adaptable solutions, allowing businesses to monitor their spaces virtually anywhere.

The real game-changer came with the introduction of Power over Ethernet (PoE). With PoE, cameras receive both power and data through a single Ethernet cable, eliminating the need for separate power supplies and reducing installation complexity. This made it easier to deploy cameras in hard-to-reach areas while also ensuring consistent performance and uptime.

Nowadays, surveillance is no longer just about recording video. It’s about real-time visibility, threat detection and secure data. Surveillance systems must be dependable, scalable, and seamlessly connected to the broader network to meet today's business demands.

Key factors that define a reliable surveillance system:

• High-Speed Connectivity – Smooth, real-time video requires high-bandwidth networking, especially in large-scale deployments.
• Scalability – As your business grows, your system should adapt easily, allowing for the addition of cameras and devices without disruption.
• Remote Access – Modern businesses need to access surveillance footage anytime, anywhere.
• Data Security – Surveillance networks must be protected from unauthorized access and cyber threats.
• Durability – Cameras and equipment should withstand weather conditions and environmental factors for consistent outdoor performance.

All of these depend on one critical factor: the strength and reliability of your network. Omada ****offers an end-to-end solution for businesses looking to enhance their surveillance systems with reliable, scalable and secure infrastructure.

Power and connectivity in one: PoE switches for surveillance

A surveillance system is only as dependable as the infrastructure behind it. That’s why Omada Switches are engineered to meet modern camera networks' power and data demands, especially in high-performance, high-density environments.

Omada switches like the SG2005P-PD and TL-SG2008P are ideal for smaller deployments, offering compact form factors with reliable PoE support. For growing businesses or multi-device environments, models such as the TL-SG2210P and SG2218P provide higher port counts and better power budgets to simultaneously handle multiple cameras and access points.

For mid- to large-scale surveillance systems, the TL-SG2428P and TL-SG3428MP deliver even more flexibility with extended PoE range and greater total power output. Need even more capacity? The SG3428XMPP and SG3452XMPP are designed for enterprise-level surveillance networks, providing advanced Layer 2/Layer 3 features, larger PoE budgets and higher uplink speeds.

At the top of the scale, switches like the SG6428XHP and SG6654XHP offer PoE++ capabilities and robust performance for large camera deployments across vast areas, such as shopping centers, school campuses and industrial facilities.

Key benefits include:

• Power and data through a single Ethernet cable, reducing installation complexity
• Smart PoE budgeting to automatically allocate power based on each device's needs
• High-speed uplinks to prevent video data bottlenecks
• Multiple form factors to fit anywhere from server racks to ceiling-mounted installs

Whether you're deploying five cameras or fifty, Omada has a PoE switch that fits your power, performance and scalability needs.

**Centralized control with Omada**

Managing surveillance networks is easier than ever with Omada. From a single cloud-based platform, IT teams can:

• Monitor device status and traffic in real time
• Deploy updates remotely
• Identify and resolve issues instantly
• Configure VLANs to segment traffic and improve security

This level of control is critical in ensuring uptime and proactive maintenance, especially across multiple business sites.

Expanding coverage with Mesh technology

Surveillance needs often extend beyond the reach of traditional networks. Omada Mesh allows wireless interconnection between access points, enabling cameras in remote or outdoor areas to remain connected without needing physical wiring. This is perfect for larger campuses, warehouses or facilities with complex layouts.

Flexible for any business size

Whether you're a small business installing a few cameras or a national chain managing multiple locations, Omada’s networking solutions are designed to grow with you. Add new access points, switches or cameras with ease without disrupting the network or requiring expensive infrastructure changes.

Real-World Applications

Retail Chains

Manage multiple store locations from a single dashboard. Monitor real-time camera feeds, track security events and ensure uptime—all through the Omada app.

Industrial Businesses

Cover large indoor and outdoor areas with weatherproof cameras powered through PoE. Maintain high-resolution video and secure cloud storage, even in complex, high-interference environments.

A reliable surveillance system starts with a reliable network. With Omada, you get the scalability, security and performance to support your business’s evolving needs. Explore Omada’s surveillance-ready networking solutions today and secure your business with confidence. Visit https://www.tp-link.com/ca/business-networking/ or email us at sales.ca@tp-link.com to learn more.