How To Port Forward Security Cameras
If you want to view your security camera outside of your local network, you can try out port forwarding. Port forwarding gives the owner a way to configure, so a smartphone can still view your current footage even when you are using a different Internet connection.
How can you do port forwarding? Follow the steps below.
1. Identify your router’s IP address, your computer’s IP address, and the password of your router
The first step focuses on gathering the information you need, including all login credentials, your port numbers, and the various IP addresses.
If you don’t know where to find your IP address, you have a few options. For Windows users, bring up your Command Line Prompt, type “ipconfig” and press enter. For MAC users, use the finder tool, click the Terminal icon, type “ipconfig” and press enter.
Once you get the number, type it into your address bar. If you’ve done it right, you’ll be on your router’s login page. Take note of the login credentials, as well.
2. Find the IP address of your NVR/DVR IP address and ports
These details can be identified from the network menu of your NVR or DVR. As you check the network, check the TCP/IP option and take down the number of your IP address. On the Connection tab, take note of the active port numbers. Usually, these are Port 3777 for TCP and Port 80 for HTTP.
3. Create Port Forwarding Rules in your router
First, log in to your router using your IP address. Next, find your port forwarding menu, click the Firewall tab, and choose Virtual Servers. Here, you will see the current port rules. Click Add to make a new one.
Here, input a name for your new port rule, the port you would like to open, the format, the IP address of where you’d like the port to be linked to, and the range of the local port. Once all is ready, click Add Virtual Server and the rule will be finalized.
Port forwarding can be essential, especially for the days when you have to go out of your home, as it allows remote access to your security system. Learn how to spot fake security cameras to ensure your security measures are genuine and effective. If you want to learn more about configuring your security camera use, check out this guide on how to connect your security camera to a TV screen.
