How to record Axis cameras stream

In this article, I explain how to record Axis cameras stream.

There are different ways to accomplish this task and I will go over some of them.

Let's get started...

How to record video stream from Axis cameras

If you have an Axis camera you just need a storage system to keep the recordings.

Since the video signal is digital, you can use micro SD cards or hard drives to get the job done. But there are some details you need to know about recording.

Here's a summary of how to record the video stream from an IP camera.

• Insert a micro SD card into the camera.
• Use a PC with recording software.
• Record to an NVR (Network Video Recorder).
• Record to Windows file share.
• Record to an FTP server.
• Record directly to a cloud service.

Let's dive into the details...

Record Axis video stream to an SD card

That's the easiest way to record the video stream from an Axis camera or any other IP camera. You just need to insert a micro SD card into the camera and go over some basic steps to set up the recordings.

I have another article on how to set up SD recording on Axis cameras.

If that's the way you want to record, just read the article and you are good to go.

Just remember to use an SD card recommended for Axis IP cameras.

Record Axis video stream to a PC

You probably know that IP cameras are connected to a computer network, right?

Yeah, that's right. If you want to record Axis cameras video stream and keep your data safe, the best way is to use a dedicated PC in your network.

The following diagram shows an example of Axis cameras in the network.

As you can see, there are some Axis cameras and a PC with recording software connected to the same switch. They are using a standard UTP cable (cat5e cable).

The IP cameras send the video stream to the PC via the network 24/7 and then the footage is recorded on the PC's internal hard drive. Very simple, isn't it ?

You need a PC with enough storage to keep all your footage for at least 15 days.

Sure, you can keep your video recording longer than that, but it all depends on some factors such as video quality, resolution, and other factors.

OK, now you know that it's possible to use a PC to record the stream from the Axis cameras, so you may be wondering "which recording software should I use?"

There are many out there, and it all depends on your needs and budget.

You can use recording software from the camera manufacturer, such as the Axis Camera Station, or third-party software such as Milestone, SecurOS, or Ocularis.

There are pros and cons to these different softwares. Some of them lack resources (such as the Axis Camera Station), but the price tag is good. Others (such as SecurOS) have advanced features, but the cost is higher.

It's up to you to look for the different software available in the market.

Record Axis video stream to a NVR

You can record footage from Axis cameras to an NVR (Network Video Recorder).

Usually, the best approach is to use the manufacturer NVR because it's designed to use its own camera; however, you can add Axis cameras to different NVRs.

The image below shows an example of Axis cameras recording to an NVR.

As you can see, the only thing that is different from the previous diagram is the NVR replacing the PC. That's it; you just need to set up the recording.

The diagram shows a Hikvision NVR connected to the network recording the video stream from the Axis cameras. It's a third-party device that is cheaper than Axis.

Axis cameras are not directly compatible with a Hikvision NVR, but it they can use a universal protocol such as the ONVIF to communicate with the recorder.

Here are some links to articles that may help you.

Record Axis cameras to a Windows file share

This is a simple way to record Axis cameras video stream.

You just need to share a folder on a Windows computer and then set up the camera to record it. There's no need for recording software.

If you want to save some money and use that old PC to record your Axis cameras, that's the way to go. Just read the article How to Record Axis Camera to a Windows File Share to learn how to set up to get the job done.

I believe that's not the best solution, however it's a valid alternative to VMS.

Record to an FTP server

You can use an FTP server to record the video stream from Axis cameras.

Again, that's an inexpensive way to get the job done but I don't recommend you to use this option unless you are using it for redundancy.

The following diagram shows the concept.

You can either use a local or a remote FTP server; it works either way, but there's a limitation when recording to a server on the Internet.

If you are interested in such a solution, please read the article How to record security camera to FTP server and FTP server for IP camera.

Record Axis camera to the cloud

You can record Axis cameras directly to a cloud server.

There are different options out there, such as Angelcam and VideoLoft which are companies dedicated to camera cloud recording.

Cloud recording is straightforward; you just need to sign in for the service, follow some steps to set up the cameras and have them recording 24/7. 

Of course there's a monthly cost to have your cameras recording to the cloud, but if you are willing to pay it it's also an advantage since the footage is secure out of your premises and can't be compromised in case of a break-in or fire.

Conclusion

As you can see, there are different ways to record Axis cameras video stream. 

Since Axis cameras are professional and expensive devices, I recommend you go for an NVR, but that is up to you. Pick the option that works better for your case.

I hope this article can help you; please share with your friends.