Shopping for an outdoor security camera? 5 things to look for

In today’s world, you can never be too safe. There are many ways to secure your property, from locking your doors to keeping hackers out with antivirus software.
Take outdoor security cameras, for example. This popular technology helps you protect your home and loved ones from whatever may go bump in the night.
So if you are concerned about the safety of your home and want to ensure you get the right product, we’ve got you covered. Here are five features to look for if you shop for an outdoor security camera.
1. It’s motion-activated
A stationary camera has little to no flexibility. It only films what is directly in front of it. However, motion-activated cameras will turn on and record when they detect movement within the perimeter.
Some cameras will notify you when they detect movement so you can look at the footage. This way, you can feel relieved once you see it was just the neighbor’s cat.
2. The camera is HD
What good is a security camera if you can’t see what’s happening in the footage? You’ll want to find something that is HD, and ideally 1080p, so you can tell who and what is disturbing you.
This is particularly important if something illegal occurs, like theft. You’ll need to hand the footage over to the authorities. The better the quality, the more likely you’ll locate the responsible person.
3. You can access it from your mobile device
While security cameras provide peace of mind when you are at home, they also help you regain sanity when you are away. What if you are on vacation and want to be sure nobody is trying to take advantage of your absence?
If you buy a camera that connects to your smartphone, you can get automatic alerts whenever the motion detector is tripped. That way, you can view what’s happening no matter where you are. Even if you’re hundreds of miles away, you can see what’s going on in your backyard.
Small-biz essential: How to pick the best VPN

Blocking threats online feels like a neverending game of whack-a-mole. That’s why it’s important to take safety precautions before it’s too late and a criminal already has compromised your system. The best way to protect yourself is with a virtual private network.