On this page
01. What works and what doesn't02. Sites without fixed internet03. Wi-Fi cameras are different04. FAQ
Yes. A wired CCTV system records to the recorder on site without any internet. When the internet goes down, recording and viewing on a local monitor continue; what stops is remote viewing on phones, push notifications and any cloud features. When the internet comes back, remote access resumes, but footage recorded during the outage was stored locally all along.
Key takeaways
- Internet is for remote access, not recording.
- An internet outage doesn't lose footage on a properly wired system.
- A power outage is the real threat: plan backup power.
- Sites without internet can use a local monitor, or a 4G router for remote access.
01What works and what doesn't
| Function | Internet down | Power down (no backup) |
|---|---|---|
| Recording to the recorder | Works | Stops |
| Local monitor viewing | Works | Stops |
| Viewing on the site network (LAN) | Works | Stops |
| Phone viewing (Hik-Connect) | Stops | Stops |
| Push notifications | Stops | Stops |
| Cloud backup | Stops | Stops |
02Sites without fixed internet
- Record locally and view on a monitor on site
- Add a 4G/LTE router for remote viewing (data costs apply)
- Use sub-stream viewing to save mobile data
- Solar-powered cameras with 4G for remote poles and construction sites
See solar CCTV cameras for remote locations.
03Wi-Fi cameras are different
Cameras that connect to the recorder over Wi-Fi depend on the Wi-Fi network, not the internet. If the router fails or loses power, they can drop off even if the internet line is fine. Cloud-only consumer cameras that record to the cloud need internet to record at all.
04Frequently asked questions
Will I lose footage if the internet goes down?
Not on a wired system recording to a DVR/NVR. Recording continues locally.
Can I watch CCTV without internet?
Yes, on a monitor connected to the recorder or on devices connected to the same local network.
Can CCTV work with a 4G router?
Yes. A 4G router can provide internet for remote viewing where there's no fixed line.
