Securing your camera network is as important as the cameras themselves

Why Security Camera Network Security Matters

Modern security cameras offer incredible convenience and protection for Boston-area homes, but they can also create vulnerabilities if not properly secured. At CameraFitter, we've installed thousands of security camera systems throughout Acton, Westford, Chelmsford, and the entire Boston metropolitan area, and we've seen firsthand how important network security is for these systems.

An insecure camera network can potentially allow unauthorized access to your cameras, compromising your privacy and security—the very things your cameras are meant to protect. According to a recent cybersecurity report, over 100,000 security cameras in the United States have potential security vulnerabilities that could be exploited.

In this guide, we'll share seven essential ways to keep your security camera network secure and protect your Boston home's privacy.

1. Update Firmware Regularly

Why it matters: Camera manufacturers regularly release firmware updates that patch security vulnerabilities and improve performance. Outdated firmware is one of the most common security weaknesses we find in Boston homes.

How to do it right:

• Set a monthly reminder to check for firmware updates for all cameras
• Enable automatic updates if your camera system offers this feature
• Pay special attention to updates labeled as "security patches"
• Document when updates are performed to maintain a security record

"Many homeowners set up their cameras and forget about them," explains Christopher Abouraad, founder of CameraFitter. "But regular firmware updates are like changing the locks on your doors—an essential security practice that shouldn't be overlooked."

2. Use Strong, Unique Passwords

Why it matters: Weak passwords are the number one security vulnerability for camera systems. Default passwords are widely known and published online, making them essentially useless for security.

How to do it right:

• Create passwords that are at least 12 characters long
• Include a mix of uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters
• Use a different password for each camera or security device
• Consider using a password manager to keep track of complex passwords
• Change your passwords every 3-6 months

For Boston residents who manage multiple properties or seasonal homes on Cape Cod, using unique passwords for each location adds an extra layer of security.

3. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

Why it matters: Even if someone obtains your password, two-factor authentication prevents unauthorized access by requiring a second verification method, typically a code sent to your phone.

How to do it right:

• Enable 2FA on your security camera account
• Use an authenticator app rather than SMS when possible (SMS can be vulnerable to SIM swapping)
• Back up your 2FA recovery codes and store them in a secure location
• Add a trusted family member as a backup contact for account recovery

"Two-factor authentication is like having both a key and an alarm code for your house—you need both to get in," says Abouraad. "It's a simple step that drastically reduces the risk of unauthorized access."

4. Create a Separate Network for Your Cameras

Why it matters: Isolating your cameras on their own network prevents a compromised camera from being used to access other devices in your home, like computers or smart home systems that may contain sensitive information.

How to do it right:

• Set up a dedicated VLAN (Virtual Local Area Network) for your security devices
• Use a separate Wi-Fi network with a different password from your main network
• Consider a dedicated router for your security system in larger homes
• Implement proper network segmentation with firewall rules between networks

This approach is particularly important for our Boston-area clients who work from home and have sensitive business information on their personal networks.

5. Disable Remote Access When Not Needed

Why it matters: The ability to view your cameras remotely is convenient, but leaving remote access perpetually enabled creates an unnecessary security risk if you only occasionally need this feature.

How to do it right:

• Only enable remote access when you're away from home
• Use a VPN (Virtual Private Network) when accessing your cameras remotely
• Disable UPnP (Universal Plug and Play) on your router
• Consider a secure remote access solution like a VPN service

Many of our clients in Lexington, Lincoln, and other suburban Boston communities who travel frequently benefit from scheduled remote access that automatically disables when they return home.

6. Regularly Audit Connected Devices and Access

Why it matters: Keeping track of which devices and users have access to your security system helps identify unauthorized access and removes outdated permissions.

How to do it right:

• Monthly review all devices connected to your camera system
• Revoke access for old devices or users who no longer need it
• Check login history for suspicious activity
• Document who has access to your system and why

"After installing a system in a client's Sudbury home, we found their camera feed was still accessible to their previous security company," notes Abouraad. "Regular audits would have caught and fixed this privacy concern."

7. Physically Secure Your Equipment

Why it matters: The most secure network settings won't help if someone can physically access and tamper with your recording equipment or network infrastructure.

How to do it right:

• Place NVRs (Network Video Recorders) and DVRs in locked, secure locations
• Secure network equipment like routers and switches
• Use tamper-resistant camera mounts and housings
• Keep network cables out of easy reach or in conduit
• Consider using cameras with tamper detection features

This is particularly important for Boston's dense urban neighborhoods in Cambridge, Somerville, and Boston proper, where physical security can be as important as network security.

Bonus Tip: Professional Security Assessments

Many Boston homeowners benefit from periodic professional security assessments. At CameraFitter, we offer comprehensive security audits that evaluate both physical camera placement and network security settings.

A professional assessment typically includes:

• Firmware verification and updates
• Password policy review
• Network security configuration
• Remote access security testing
• Physical security evaluation
• Documentation of security protocols

Common Security Mistakes to Avoid

During our installations throughout the Boston area, we frequently see these security mistakes:

1. Using the same password across multiple devices
2. Neglecting to change default credentials
3. Exposing camera systems directly to the internet without proper firewall protection
4. Failing to update firmware for extended periods
5. Not encrypting wireless communications

Need Help Securing Your Existing Camera System?

Even if CameraFitter didn't install your current security camera system, we can help secure it. Our security assessment service includes:

• A comprehensive review of your current security settings
• Identification of potential vulnerabilities
• Implementation of security best practices
• Documentation and training for ongoing security maintenance