How to Set Up a Home Security Camera

Install a security camera in or around your home and view the live feed from your phone.

Steps

  1. 1

    Choose where to place your camera

    such as the front door, back door, or living room. Pick a spot with a clear view.

  2. 2

    Download the camera app

    from the App Store or Google Play and create an account with your email.

  3. 3

    Plug in the camera

    and wait for the status light to blink, which means it is ready to pair with the app.

  4. 4

    Follow the app instructions

    to connect the camera to your home wifi network. Most cameras use a QR code scanning step.

  5. 5

    Adjust the camera angle

    and test the view in the app. Set up motion alerts to get notified of activity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do security cameras work at night?Show
Yes, most home security cameras have infrared night vision that works in complete darkness.
Can I watch my camera feed from anywhere?Show
Yes, as long as your camera is connected to wifi you can view the live stream from your phone anywhere.
Do security cameras need a subscription?Show
Basic live viewing is usually free. Cloud recording and advanced alerts often require a paid subscription.
How much storage do I need for recordings?Show
Most cameras support a microSD card of 32 to 128 GB, which stores several days of video footage.

Written by the HowToDoStuff.online editorial team. Last updated .