IP - While some IP cameras can store limited amounts of video
internally, network failure will result in losing all live viewing and
the recorded server video. Attempts to limit exposure to network faults
by use of complex Layer 3 switches, redundant networks, etc.,increases
costs and management significantly. Networks can also become
infected with viruses or other malware, with catastrophic results. IP
cameras are network appliances and as they are devices requiring
management are less reliable.
Analog - Analog devices are limited to failures of the
individual cameras or the individual devices at the point of
concentration and as such the loss of a single piece of hardware will
not cause a substantial degradation of the system. The
video transmission is typically a “passive” connection, and once
installed, requires virtually no maintenance. Analog cameras are very
mature and have a long track record for reliability.

Article ID: 114, Created: July 14, 2009 at 12:15 PM, Modified: July 14, 2009 at 12:15 PM