Flexible, Expandable IP/Hybrid Camera & Recording Systems for Offices & Businesses

You can buy security cameras anywhere. But to have a truly functional, robust surveillance/recording/monitoring security camera system for your office in Matteson, IL, you need system design, installation, programming, and integration with your data network from someone who truly understands both. Don't get sucked into contracting services from a "camera installer" for whom IT networks are just a sideline or vice versa.

For decades, Andromeda has served the IT/Security needs of small-to-medium sized organizations like yours in the greater Chicagoland IL/Indy area. We have cultivated expertise in both the data network "brains" as well as the camera/access control/alarm/communication "arms and legs" of office systems and have years of experience integrating these together for a diverse cross-section of businesses, municipalities, and other associations/organizations.

Your timing for creating or expanding a current security camera surveillance system could not be better. There is no longer a need for an expensive, dedicated system to monitor your premises. We also provide great options for expanding an older security camera system with better/newer analog and digital technology without scrapping what you might already have! By leveraging your existing IT network for your security camera system(s), Andromeda can save you time, money, and lots of headaches with efficient integrated systems that can do more than you probably imagined: real-time alerts, automated responses, and more.

Security Camera/Surveillance/Recording Systems -Matteson, IL 60443

We are a certified Panasonic Network Camera Installer. We utilize the latest in IP Video Camera technology, which allows the cameras, DVR recording and viewing all to be performed on your existing computer data network. This allows you to use your existing investment in your data wiring and data systems and extend that network into the security camera/webcam arena.

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Panasonic Cameras and Recording Software

• Panasonic manufactures over 20 different types of network video cameras. The following are some of the features that are available:
  Wireless
• Outdoor
• Power-Over-Ethernet (PoE)
• Digital and Optical Zoom
• Very High Resolution
• Low Light, Night Viewing
• Motion and Thermal Activation
• Full Pan, Tilt, and Zoom with Scanning Presets
• 2-Way Audio with Microphone and Speaker

The ability to record and later playback is an important and necessary part of any video security system. There are many options available; from on-camera memory sticks to a full-blown, searchable recording system capable of storing months worth of video from all your cameras. The viewing software is very user-friendly and easy to use.

Andromeda Technology Solutions will work to understand all your needs and provide a solution that exactly fits those needs, and allows for future growth if necessary. Our attention to detail will ensure you receive a system that you will be 100% happy with.

Applications

There are many types of applications where it pays to see there, when you cannot be there. Here are just a few types of oranizations that have benefited from our security camera systems:

• Parking Lots
• Daycare / Nursery School
• Construction Sites
• Car Dealerships
• Retail Stores
• Restaurant / Franchise
• Self Storage
• Hotel / Motel
• Multi-unit Residential

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Flexible / Programmable / Expandable Surveillance Systems

You can start with just a few cameras and expand the system as you grow. It is very easy to add security cameras to the system, without throwing away any of your initial investment.

There are options to synchronize recordings with your POS receipts, so you can exactly match the video recording with an individual receipt transaction.

The wide variety of camera types and camera options make the system extremely flexible to fit almost any application.

We can also setup remote access for you to view live video or search through recorded video, from any remote location with Internet access. You can keep tabs on your business without having to be there.

Integration: Get The Most From Your Security Systems

How does Integrated Security work?

How does Integrated Security work?

Integrated Security works by allowing you to program a multitude of responses—both in the Cloud and as control back to external hardware—based on any number of triggers from external hardware regardless of origin/type (cameras, access sensors, alarm fault sensors, motion, smoke, temperature,...)

Why is Integrated Security better?

Why is Integrated Security better?

This allows the entire system and designated human responders to more accurately assess the detailed nature of a security event and respond in the most precise/appropriate manner, virtually eliminating undue responses to false alarms.

Triggers:
• Motion in ...more

I.S. Responses:
• Discontinue ...more

Triggers:
• Door opening ...more

I.S. Responses:
• Selective lock ...more

Triggers:
• Zone fault ...more

I.S. Responses:
• Set/Reset ...more

Triggers:
• Manual Pan/Tilt/Zoom signals to designated cameras
• Overrides of any current Access Control statuses
• Set/reset Alarm status

I.S. Programmable Responses:
• Alert Central Station
• Email/text alert to owner/designated responders
• Pop appropriate camera feed(s) to all responders
• Release of appropriate cameras to manual control

Integrated Security works by allowing you to program a multitude of responses—both in the Cloud and as control back to external hardware—based on any number of triggers from external hardware regardless of origin/type (cameras, access sensors, alarm fault sensors, motion, smoke, temperature,...). This allows the entire system to more accurately assess the detailed nature of a security event and respond in the most precise/appropriate manner, virtually eliminating undue responses to false alarms.

AndroPedia Tech Library

As part of our service, it is important to keep our client-partners well informed on Security Camera system developments, news, and best practices. Here is just a sampling of typical items from our AndroPedia^SM library archive:

When it comes to professional security cameras there are two main categories: IP Cameras and Digital/Analog Cameras.

Without diving too deep into the differences/similarities, the main difference between these two types of systems resides in how they transmit data or footage.

• Professional IP Cameras use your network
• Analog or Digital Cameras use coax cable (there are wireless exceptions)

Which system you choose is largely based upon your desired outcomes, budget and the vendor you work with.

Traditionally, IP camera solutions came in many times higher in price than other analog solutions so for many business owners and professionals, analog was the way to go.

Analog systems are professional, dependable and a great option for most circumstances but as time has gone on, IP options have come a long way and are now getting much more attention across the integrated security market for many reasons.

If you are considering adding a new camera system or if it is time to upgrade/update your existing system, IP Camera Solutions might be something to consider.

Here are 5 key reasons you should consider Professional IP Cameras for your business:

1. Integration Capabilities

Moving any of your technology onto your network is going to open up possibilities for integration. Professional IP cameras can easily integrate with different viewing software, video analytic programs, cloud backup solutions and more.

You’ll want to make sure that the solution you choose is compatible with the software you want to implement. Look for open source solutions that are designed with integration in mind.

2. Enhanced Security

It sounds kind of redundant to discuss a more secure security solution but IP Camera Systems do offer some more robust security capabilities. An IP based camera system transmits information across your network which means that you can add security measures like encryption to make sure that nobody taps in to your camera feeds. Although not a regular issue, analog cameras pass their feed over physical coax cables and a criminal or wrongdoer with the right equipment can tap into your feed and view your recordings. There are also no physical tapes available to steal with an IP camera solution.

While professional IP cameras and their footage can be encrypted, these cameras are an active item on your network and bring some new security concerns to your environment as well. Be sure to work with a technology professional who knows how to properly configure your firewall and other hardware to make sure you aren’t leaving any opportunities open for cyber criminals to do damage.

3. Scalability

IP Camera Systems have great scalability options built in. While both Analog and IP camera solutions have storage and capacity constraints, IP recorders are easily scaled. In terms of storage, an IP solution can store footage (data) on a server, computer, backup hard drive and many other options. It is also important to note that IP solutions can easily be connected to cloud applications for both footage backups and unlimited space.

That means that even if something were to happen to the physical hardware, you have the option to secure your footage in the cloud where it can be safely and securely held until you need it.

4. Higher Resolution Options

Professional IP Cameras and Analog Cameras both have high resolutions options but IP camera solutions can offer cameras with up to 20x higher resolution.

Additionally, with enhanced viewing software and integrated applications, IP footage can be further improved, edited and modified for different purposes.

5. Remote Access & Support

When it comes to remote support or access, having technology connected to your network makes things much easier and portable. You can easily check footage with remote viewing software on your smartphone, tablet or PC.

With your cameras on the network it is also easier for your service company to get in and troubleshoot common errors remotely. This saves you from paying for a technician to visit your site.

These systems also benefit from regular software updates and patches which can easily be downloaded and installed by remote support.

There are many other benefits to professional IP cameras and getting your security systems integrated into your network. As mentioned, you open up cloud options, enhanced security, scalability and more. These cameras are also easier to install and manage on average.

The biggest drawback to IP cameras historically resided in their up front costs but over the last five years manufacturers have worked hard to create products with more competitive pricing.

It should absolutely be mentioned that most of these capabilities or functions are available for digital cameras and analog camera systems. It might just take a little more work from your technology partner to get things set up for you.

That is why you absolutely must make sure that you work with a security vendor that can assess your business and your needs before pushing you into a specific security solution.

Andromeda offers service, consulting and installation of both Professional IP Cameras and Digital Cameras.

If you are considering a new camera system, upgrading your current system or adding to it – please give us a call at (815) 836-0030 or send us an email at Contact@WeNetwork.com.

Like many other technologies on your network, an IP camera system opens the door for some enhanced remote support and service options.

The post 5 Key Reasons You Should Consider Professional IP Cameras For Your Business Security Solution appeared first on Andromeda Technology Solutions.

If you are looking to add a security camera system to your technology mix, here is a simple and overriding factor that you shouldn’t ignore.  Like many things in life, you get what you pay for and CCTV cameras are no exception.

There is a vast difference in a $59 security camera purchased from Costco or Amazon, and a professional grade, $300 camera.  The differences show up in picture quality, reliability, and longevity.

How To Tell If A Security Camera System Is The Right Choice?

Picture Quality

Imagine the unimaginable. A break-in occurs at our business. You did everything you could to prevent this (i.e. a functional burglar system, cameras and even access control at specific entrances). Now, you go to look at footage the security camera caught so you can catch the culprit and the image shows a grainy blob. Now, imagine poor quality mixed with weather or poor lighting . . . you get the picture (or lack thereof).

Reliability ­

Fast forward a few months after you install your system. Two employees get into a fender bender in the parking lot. When the police/employees request footage of the incident you don’t sweat it. You head directly to your DVR and prepare to play back footage . . . but wait . . . looks like your system is malfunctioning and a quarter of your cameras within your security camera system haven’t been recording like you thought they were. Bummer!

Longevity

When spending money on technology, it is important to see it as an investment. Sure, things come and go but investing in a quality system from a reputable vendor ensures that your system will last. Systems installed by professionals typically last years with proper maintenance and system care. That system on sale at Costco is lucky to last you a few months over warranty without some sort of failure.

The one constant with cameras – they need to work. They need to capture what you need; whether that be a parking lot, office space, warehouse or any other number of critical areas in your facility.

If you cut corners here, you’ll get cut corner results.

We’d suggest instead, invest that money into a quality system that will perform when you need it and for years to come.

The post What To Consider When Buying A New Security Camera System appeared first on Andromeda Technology Solutions.

Not long ago, a critical flaw in Linux SUDO was discovered and is being tracked as CVE-2021-3156.

Given the nickname "Baron Samedit," it's a flaw in a Unix program that allows system admins to provide root level privileges to any users listed in the "sudoers" file.

More disturbing, however, is the fact that just over a week from the time this piece was written, researchers stumbled across the fact that the Sudo privilege escalation also impacts the latest version of macOS, Big Sur 11.2.

Linux developers have already moved to patch the issue in various Linux distros, including Debian, Fedora, and Ubuntu, which are three of the most popular. However, there is currently no fix yet for macOS, and no ETA for when one will be released. Apple has proven to be quite responsive in the face of issues like these, however, so the smart money says it won't be long.

Security researcher Matthew Hickey put together a simple proof of concept that shows how the exploit works which is standard practice in situations like these, but it does mean that the clock is ticking. Even if the exploit wasn't being actively used by hackers before, with a step-by-step blueprint in hand, you can bet that it's just a matter of time.

Matthew Hickey points out that it's not possible for Mac users to take matters into their own hands and attempt to upgrade SUDO manually because Apple's System Integrity Protection system prevents this. IBM notes that there is not yet a patch for the AIX Unix distribution at this time, which is one of the few builds, other than macOS that are not yet protected against this flaw. So if you use either of those, be aware that you are facing a period of vulnerability and watch for the fix, which should be released soon.

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