Best Practices
Installation and image quality
Mount cameras to avoid direct light into the lens, respect IR reflection from nearby surfaces, and frame to the required pixel density. Set shutter and exposure for motion, not just for a pretty still. Use privacy masking where legally required and document camera purpose. Trap: questions where the "best" answer improves image aesthetics but harms forensic usability, such as heavy noise reduction that smears faces.
Network and system hygiene
Assign static or reserved IPs, segment surveillance traffic, enable NTP for consistent timestamps, and monitor device health. Use unique credentials and role-based access. Keep firmware current through a managed process, testing before wide rollout.
Recording and retention
Size storage with headroom, define retention by policy, and verify failover. Test restore and export procedures - an export that cannot be played is not evidence. Maintain chain-of-custody practices for exported material.
Operations and maintenance
Document the design, label cables, and schedule preventive checks: focus, cleanliness, tampering alerts, and storage health. Train operators on search and export.
Worked rule
Before commissioning, verify each camera meets its pixel-density target at the actual mounting height and angle, then record a sample clip and confirm playback and export. This single check catches most common design errors.