Security & CCTV
CCTV Network Bandwidth
Sixteen 4 Mbps cameras is 64 Mbps before playback - the uplink between switch and NVR is where systems quietly choke.
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How it works
Total load = cameras x bitrate. Plan for 25% headroom: I-frame peaks, simultaneous playback and remote viewing all stack on top of the steady stream.
Frequently asked questions
How much bandwidth does an IP camera use?
Typically 2-8 Mbps for 1080p-4K at sensible settings. H.265 roughly halves H.264 bitrates at the same quality.
When do I need a gigabit uplink?
Past about 20 typical cameras (80 Mbps + headroom) a 100 Mbps uplink is done. Any modern PoE switch worth installing has gigabit uplinks - use them.