Best products from r/homedefense

Nyxcam is the best home security system which money can buy. With the price range and the available features, you don’t have to think twice before buying this camera.And you only cost $388.88 to buy a security camera system,it has 4 cameras.

High Video Quality in Day and Night:
8 channel HD-AHD DVR security system with 4.0 Megapixel CCTV cameras to monitor your home with sharp Video. Equipped with 36 IR-cut infrared LEDs bullet cameras have a clear B&W night vision up to 100ft/30meters

Motion Detection with Specified Area Setting:
Any movement detected by the security camera will be recorded. Notification/alert will be sent immediately to your email. Detection area can be customized to minimize false alarms

Remote View with Multiple Device:
Nyxcam surveillance camera system support PC CMS and web browser (IE/Chrome/Firefox/Max/Safari) view remote access on Android and IOS devices free and easy-to-use Noxcam App for remote viewing and recording with P2P technology

IP66 Weatherproof and Vandal proof Cameras:
Metal IP66 security camera are completely airtight against dust and able to endure any kind of wind and rain. Outdoor cameras are capable of operating in extreme temperatures -20°C to 60°C or - 40°F to 140°F

Warranty:
Lifetime Tech Support and FREE 12 Month Warranty
Specifications of Nyxcam 4MP 4CH home security camera system
High definition:4pcs 4MP AHD Cameras25601440 Pixel
Video color image senor:1/3" CMOS
Lens:3.6mm/ (75°Field of view)night vision36 pcs led nights
Surveillance distance:100 feet’s
Fluent frame rate:25fps（50Hz)30fps(60Hz)
Waterproof: IP 66
Vandal proof metal case
Min. Illumination: Color 0.1Lux(F1.250IREAGC ON) 0.Lux（LED ON）
White Balance: Auto
Gain Control: Auto
Video input:8CH 4MP AHD/TVI/CVI/Analogue input
Real time recording:8CH
Playback: Supports 4CH Simultaneous playback
Audio input:4CH
Audio output:1CH
Supports dual stream，VGA，HDMI output
3 USB 2.0 ports 1 HDD
Ethernet port:10 /100 Mbps Ethernet (RJ-45)
PTZ:1RS485，Pan，Tilt，Zoom，Preset，Cruise，Trace function
Supports smart phone real time remotely monitoring such as iPhone Android
Software: Provide IE ActiveX，CMS，Noxcam APP
https://www.amazon.com/NYXCAM-Security-Surveillance-weatherproof-Detection/dp/B071GVYRQQ?th=1

Every single person, especially a living-alone female (and/or someone without a gun and trained) should have at the very least a large pepper spray can (not the tiny key chain model, but definitely have that on your key chain) in their home.

Ideally two of these: one by the bed and one in the living room (wherever you spend most of time while awake).

$40 ($80 for two) that may save your life.

This is the best in my opinion:
SABRE Red Pepper Gel - Police Strength - Family, Home & Property Defense Gel with Wall Mount Bracket https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002368VJ6?ref=yo_pop_ma_swf

Of course, a lethal option is also best, but training along with it is crucial.

Also, a metal or ‘solid core door’ for your front door and bedroom. It will help / make it much harder for someone to get to you at night (and lock it at night). Couple that with replacing all of the screws for those doors with 3” screws and you have seriously helped your security setup.

Oh, and an alarm system...and swap out the cats for a dog ; )

Actual bullet-proof glass is expensive and probably has to be professionally installed. Even so, bullets will still go through exterior walls and drywall quite easily.

My first suggestion if you truly fear for your family's safety is to move. I know you said the property has been in the family for a very long time, but you should ask yourself it the property is worth a family member dying - if that's what you really think would happen if you stayed.

My second suggestion if you can't afford the stiff bill for the bulletproof glass - is to add some basic fortification to the home to prevent unauthorized entry. A door jamb reinforcement kit and some window security film will go a long way for preventing access to anyone trying to break in. A firearm (or a few) is a must if allowed in your jurisdiction. Just make sure everyone gets some safety training if they're not familiar with guns. Another thing to look into is a monitored alarm. Dogs are also great deterrents and alerts.

My point here is, it's much more effective use of your money fortifying and securing your home than it is to try to make it bulletproof. Unless you are very wealthy, that is going to break the bank. Go browsing around the subreddit and read some wiki articles to get more ideas on fortification and what other people have done.

Update: After looking around a bunch of sites and thanks to /u/automatedlife, I've finally made a decision. This is probably my fourth time researching this before I could pull the trigger.

Cameras: Two mini 3pm Hikvision bullets: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00G7GMEOG/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Networking: I opted for POE for many reason, but primarily because I can do it myself without a contractor -- I also have the supplies on hand. Also, wifi wouldn't be as reliable. The POE switch I bought can scale to 4 cameras: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000QYEN1W/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1

NVR: Repurposed my home server. It already has a bunch of drives, and I almost never use it to game anymore. Furthermore, it has plenty of disk and two network cards (one for the cameras and another for internet. If I were to have pulled the trigger today, I probably would have ended up with a refurb like this: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=9SIA8XK46E2600 It's a better form factor than my current system ... and I'd still have my server in my office. Maybe later.

Anyway, I hope I can help at least one other person. I probably opened up 200 tabs throughout this whole investigation.

Edit: My out of pocket today was ~$100/camera @ qnt 2 and $50 for networking. Everything else I had on hand. My total was $250. If you need a computer, you'll probably be spending $500-$800 range, depending on what you get and how long you can wait around for a deal.

This incosky security camera system would be cheaper but still in good quality, also in good customer reviews. It is the 1.3MP 960P 2000TVL waterproof (IP66) outdoor security camera. The 4 idle channels included in case you need more cameras (8 channels in total); plus 1080N resolution AHD DVR provides clear true color images.

Hi marcginla,

I must admit cloud recording is not my area of expertise, mainly because I try and stay away from it due to privacy concerns, and the fact that you generally have to pay a monthly fee for storing recorded clips beyond a certain number of days.

Yes, a local NVR will allow direct remote access and/or cloud recording of videos.

There are basically two ways of going about remote access:

• All cameras and an NVR connected via WiFi that you remotely access directly over the internet (port forwarding needs to be set up on your father's router, will need a dynamic DNS service to be set up as well) -
  
  Pros: No monthly charges. 24/7 recording possible. SD card slot allows motion detected captures (7 days easily possible).
  
  Cons: More difficult to set up. Also remote playback of recorded video is limited by the upload bandwidth of your father's broadband. If the NVR automatically reduces video quality to adjust, then this is not an issue.
  
  
• All cameras directly connected to the internet via WiFi and recording to the cloud.
  
  Pros: Easiest to set up and use.
  
  Cons: Can cost you a few dollars per camera per month for 7 day recording. Live streaming possible but generally only motion detected recordings will be available.
  
  In your case, it does make sense to consider the cloud recording option. Can't comment on the specific cloud services you mentioned. However do consider the Amcrest 1080p ProHD camera which can upload to the Amcrest cloud service. Its $99 at the moment.
  
  Amcrest is a company started by the same people who started Foscam. It seems they have come up with better products than Foscam. I would recommend this over the Foscam 720p. You can read about the Amcrest cloud service and pricing plans here. By the way any cloud service that offers everything 100% free is a bit suspect in my opinion. What will be the reliability of a 100% free service is the question.
  
  Hope that helps. Maybe others who use cloud services will chime in.
  
  Daniel

> A panic button that will automatically call 911 on speaker.

I would really consider a basic security system with central station monitoring. I don't know your financial situation but you can get central station for $15/month, and it can buy a lot of peace of mind. A panic button is nice, but it requires someone to press it and talk to 911. And you can't have your security system call 911 directly based on sensor activity.

> A security system that can easily be turned on and off so it doesn't go off every time she walks the dogs because she forgets.

Get a system with a touchscreen control instead of the old fashioned keypad - touchscreen systems are much more intuitive to arm/disarm.

> One of the digital deadbolts not sure what the best kind is.

If you get a security system, you can get a smart lock that integrates with it. Opinions on digital locks vary. My opinion is that no one is going to go to the trouble of hacking your lock, and for all practical purposes a digital lock is just as secure as a comparable non-digital.

> Is it better to have weapons around the house like pepper spray or just to have a plan for her to run in case someone breaks in.

My opinion is that having a canister of this stuff mounted somewhere strategically is not a bad insurance policy: https://amzn.com/B002368VJ6

There is some talk of a Taser, which is not a bad way to go, but they are expensive and require training. Do not get a non-Taser "stun gun", those do not incapacitate.

hello FoghornLegporn, in my opinion you should not get an nvr for the fact that they are expensive and you can not upgrade them down the line, what i recommend is building a pc base nvr and use the blue iris softwere, my recommendation and my current set up is:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B018QDIO2S/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005O65JXI/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01FN9QT34/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o03_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00J8E8Y5C/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o05_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00TR8YL4W/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o05_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

if you have an old computer you can save some parts and moeny by reusing the power supply, hdd and maybe the case. all that will be around 250-300, the you will have 200 to buy 4 poe 1080p cameras 50 each, and good things is that you can add more later on, best of the luck,
you do need few more parts so let me know if you interested and i will put them together for you. you can take a look at mine at http://mymun2.25u.com:81 demo/demo for username and passowrd.

After proofreading this I should preface this by saying I have zero affiliation with them other than buying the system a few months ago, but I really like it.

I have this Reolink system. https://www.amazon.com/Reolink-Business-Security-Waterproof-RLK8-410B4/dp/B01AHXEHSU/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1492349113&sr=8-4&keywords=reolink+security+camera+system

Seems to meet all your requirements except text alerts. I does support email alerts though. Supports up to 8 cameras and comes with 4 bullet cams. Grab a Reolink dome camera for about $100 or so and you are way under budget.

The biggest negative is that they say the system only works with their brand of cameras. Not sure if that means they just don't officially support other brands or if they just plain wont work with the system. I only have the 4 that came with it and have not purchased extras.

The software while not the most intuitive, is easy enough to figure out and has a good amount of features. The mobile app is very easy to use and works well.

There are so many to choose from. Hikvision is a good compromise between cost and quality. There are quite a couple of products out there that, although branded with other logos, have Hikvision hardware underneath. I have used Swann and Hikvision NVR and between the two I would recommend Hikvision.

I run various branded cams on my NVR and if you are not after fancy features like number plate recognition or item removal .... most of the are well supported.

I would start with an 8 port NVR device as you will inevitably want to add more once you stat and from my experience a 4 port is just not enough for us DIY types.

I would recommend something like below as a start.
Hik 8 PoE NVR

This will work for cams up to 6MP but will probably only allow you to record 4 x 5MP cams simultaneously. If you need more you will have to record at lower quality. You would also have to fit it with HDD’s

You also get NVR models with alarm inputs (digital) that you can combine for instance door sensors with you NVR for better reliability. Just some food for thought.

You get much better spec’d Hikvision NVR’s as well other brand but you have to start somewhere.

So as an update, these are the two options that I think we're going to go with. Well one of the two, any feedback on why the IP cam setup would be beneficial over the Analog?

Cameras: 4 Hikvision DS-2CD2142FWD-I 4MP WDR
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01A6MYOOO/ref=olp_product_details?_encoding=UTF8&me=

• Should we consider turrents as well? Or are Domes the preferred goto for a commercial, indoor setting?
  
  NVR: HIKVISION DS-7616NI-E2
  https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0197X9L7S/ref=twister_B01DBLT7K8?_encoding=UTF8&th=1
  
• Considered the 8 port version as well, but I think we'll be running POE from a TPlink into the NVR, so the extra ports wouldnt matter.
  
  Switch: TP-LINK 8-Port Gigabit Ethernet PoE Desktop Switch with 4 PoE Ports (TL-SG1008P) -
  https://www.amazon.com/TP-LINK-Gigabit-Ethernet-Desktop-TL-SG1008P/dp/B00BP0SSAS?psc=1&SubscriptionId=AKIAISGKVAZL7VOI6HIA&tag=vueville.com-ce-20&linkCode=xm2&camp=2025&creative=165953&creativeASIN=B00BP0SSAS
  
  WD Purple 2TB Surveillance Hard Disk Drive
  https://www.amazon.com/Purple-Surveillance-Hard-Disk-Drive/dp/B00IMPO5MO/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1478502241&sr=8-5&keywords=WD+purple+surveillance
  
• Owner is looking for 30 days of recording capability
  
  200ft Cat5e Outdoor Waterproof Ethernet Cable Direct Burial 200 ft.
  https://www.amazon.com/Outdoor-Waterproof-Ethernet-Direct-Burial/dp/B001B6FY4O?psc=1&SubscriptionId=AKIAISGKVAZL7VOI6HIA&tag=vueville.com-ce-20&linkCode=xm2&camp=2025&creative=165953&creativeASIN=B001B6FY4O
  
  Anything that i seem to be missing from this setup? I was thinking of a UPS as well for power trips and maybe an SD card. But not sure either is seems as necessary?
  
  Conversely, were also considering as mentined, a pure analog setup.
  Amcrest HD 720P 4CH Video Security System - Four 1280TVL
  https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00ZSPXR8E?th=1
  
  Is there a sizable benefit of going with the Hik IP cameras, vs the lesser costed CCTV system that Armcrest offers?

As stated elsewhere, I'm sure counseling would help but there are things that you can do to make you feel safer.

1. Look for a security bar (http://www.amazon.com/Master-Lock-265DCCSEN-Dual-Function-Security/dp/B0002YUX8I) or door chain. This will prevent entry for times when you are inside the room.
   
   
2. Camera (in case someone does come in) such as DropCam so if there is an intruder, there is evidence. (May also make you feel better knowing that the person can be identified)
   
   
3. Upgrades / further discussion with the landlord. You may be able to pay for an upgraded door / deadbolt / security locks with their consent.
   
   The last option is to move to a new location / distance yourself from a real (or even imaginary) situation that is causing you stress. If the sounds / sights / smells are triggering these memories then find someplace that isn't making you so afraid.
   
   Hope some of these suggestions help!

I can't comment as a owner, but I've heard quite a lot of discussion regarding the Amcrest and Amcrest Pro, 720P and 1080P respectively. I have three pro's sitting in my wish list at the moment. Seem to be a great value.

I bought this

Reolink IP PoE Security Camera 4 Megapixels Super HD 2560x1440 Bullet Outdoor Indoor IR Night Vision Motion Detection RLC-410 (Fixed Bullet without SD https://www.amazon.com/dp/B010LH48F4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apap_nwePUbjOs9DZw


a month ago and I love it. You can buy the more pricey one that comes with an internal SD card. I have mine set up to email me when motion is detected when I'm not home and it stores all the videos captured on a simple FTP server I set up. It also comes with a decent program for the pc and an app. I think it's great quality with lots of features for the price.

I have 5 of these Amcrest 1080P cameras and they have never failed me. The setup was quick and the iOS/Android app works very well and is snappy to load HD streams over 4G. I don't yet use the motion alert features, but you could pop in a SD card to record on motion (which can also be viewed remotely). I highly recommend them and for the price, hard to beat.

One of the cams is our dedicated baby monitor that gets used like ~3 hours each day if not more. We also use them for nanny cam purposes and the 2-way audio and PTZ capabilities come in handy often.

P.S: Forgot to mention, unlike Foscam where support was non-existent, Amcrest was quick to respond and are "more US based" than Foscam/other Chinese OEM knock offs.

I've got 4 of these watching just under 4,000 sq ft.

http://amzn.com/B006ZP8UOW

They work great. Wireless, built in Web server, motion detection, ability to send you photos to your phone when triggered, and they're cheap at less than $80/ea.

I run Evocam http://www.evological.com/evocam.html on a Mac mini I picked up off Craigslist for $200 and it records video from all 4 cameras in 1 hour increments. I can keep over a year's worth of video on the mini without having to delete anything on a 60 GB Drive. Evocam can also be setup to save videos to FTP, Send email/sms on motion detection, save to your drop box.

For $80 I had an electrician install two AC outlets in the eves of the house, and one about 9 feet up the wall so I could mount the cameras up high.

Less than $630 for a nice DIY system that's been running for 5 years now.

Gotcha. My thoughts are below.

1. This scenario makes sense. Unfortunately, there isn't a lot of overlap between vendors that sell wireless cameras with two-way audio, that have local storage, and that have quality software with decent motion detection.
   
   
2. Good to hear you've accounted for it.
   
   
3. If you want to use two cameras, you're going to need some kind of storage solution and monitoring solution independent of the two cameras. It looks like you're going to be buying a NAS down the road. If you plan on doing just network storage, you'll need some kind of head end - in this case, the NUC. In other words, you can use the NUC today for storage and monitoring; when you build out your NAS, you can use that for storage as well, but would still need some processing power dedicated to the camera solution.
   
   With the additional details provided, I'd suggest looking at Foscam. I'm generally not a fan of their products, but they meet your requirements and include a freebie copy of BI for you to play with. Their relatively low price means you can purchase more cameras, and BI would meet all of your monitoring and communications requirements without incurring a monthly surcharge.
   
   

Have they been breaking in one particular way? If so, maybe we could help prepare for their preferred way.

I always highly recommend hardening your home. It helps that you are in the second floor, that means they are less likely to target your windows (unless there is access to your windows). So, let's focus on the door. Doors (and their frames) are often quite vulnerable.

If your door doesn't have a deadbolt, get one and use it! A deadbolt is much, much stronger than the lock on the knob, but it doesn't do anything for you if you don't lock the deadbolt. It is slightly less convenient because you have to use a key to lock it when you leave, but the extra security far outweighs the slight inconvenience. Use your deadbolt.

You may be limited in what the landlord allows you to do, but I'd suggest you do some version of the following to reinforce the door. You can get a door reinforcement kit like this or this (I've sometimes seen the prime-line kit for sale at HD or Lowes for more like $25). These will reinforce the weak door frame and make it much harder to kick in the door. If that is too big of a change, maybe you'd be allowed to replace the strike plate with one like this. That would be a good step up from a standard strike plate. If you aren't allowed to do any of those, at a minimum you should replace the short screws that your strike plate and hinges likely have now, with longer screws (3-4 inch screws are good). The longer screws will anchor the strike plate not only to the weak door frame, but to the strong 2x4 structure behind the frame too. Also a few of those long screws on the hinge side of the door; stock hinge screws are often too short for good security too.

Reinforcing the door will make it much harder to kick in, so they will probably move on to a softer target. It would also take longer and make more noise, giving you more time to call for help, arm yourself, or escape.

If their preferred method is not to kick in the door, but to attack the lock (using a bump key or lock picks), I'd suggest switching to a high security lock like a medeco or assa/abloy. If you can't afford that, then a lock that uses a non-standard key would at least help some. Kwikset KW1 and Schlage SC1 are the most common keys, so those would be the most common bump keys carried by thieves. Getting a lock that doesn't use either of those would at least make them less likely to have the proper key handy.

What I wrote above can help keep people out; that is most important in my opinion. After that, some sort of alarm may make an intruder want to leave more quickly, or also give you extra warning.

Edit: I just wanted to add that many companies use the KW1 and SC1 keys, not just kwikset and schlage. So if you want a less common key, you have to do your due diligence to know what key it uses. For example, I think Baldwin uses either a KW1 or SC1; also, i think Defiant uses a KW1. And definitely avoid anything that uses Kwikset's "Smart Key". The Smart Key locks are just weak junk.

this one, for example?

http://www.amazon.com/Foscam-FI8910W-Network-Camera-Two-Way/dp/B006ZP8UOW/

It looks great from what I can tell

It looks I can talk through it too... that would be awesome! I'd love to get my dog's attention if he's doing something he's not supposed to

Short answer: You need to move, this could escalate to violence including a murder. If taking a job in another state can keep everyone in your household alive then it is an action you need to seriously consider.

If for whatever reason you decide to stay then read on.

If you are the target then typical criminal deterrence will not be effective.

Cameras are good for collecting evidence for police, without evidence police won't do anything. Their job is to arrest criminals after they have committed a crime not protect you from a future crime.

You need to ensure the entries to your house are hardened, there are many resources online on how to harden your doors and windows. Here is a simple guide from the sidebar that has some good ideas: https://www.artofmanliness.com/2015/04/22/complete-guide-to-home-security/ . I personally have a stronger strike plate with 3" screws and a door jam on my external doors.

None of this protects you from someone burning your house down while you are inside. You need good fire detection and quality fire extinguishers as well as methods to escape through windows on upper floors is necessary. Create an escape plan for multiple scenarios and ensure your family does a regular walkthrough and everyone knows it by heart. Beware that the fire may be used to lure you outside to attack you with violence when you are no longer protected by the walls of your home. This is a fairly common carjacking technique where the criminals cause a small fender bender and when the person gets out of the car they steal it with violence or the threat of violence. I briefly cover personal protection below but you must be aware of that tactic so you can be prepared if that is the scenario you find yourself in

If you are the target then you need to take your personal protection and the protection of your family very seriously. Don't take this responsibility alone, your gf and her kids need to up their awareness. If something seems out of place do not ignore it, mitigate your risk by removing yourself/family from the danger that could surround that abnormality.

You also need a means to protect yourself if this harasser gets violent with you or your family. I'm a firearms person and live in Nevada where I can fairly easily obtain a concealed firearms permit. Where you live you may not be able to legally carry outside your home. A firearm and training are the best force multipliers civilians can use to defend themselves against unknown threats (we don't what this person is capable of, what tools he will use, or if he is acting alone). Personally, I believe an 5.56mm AR-15 rifle is the best home defense tool and a 9mm handgun is the best on person defense tool. You mentioned your girlfriend has 2 kids, regardless of age you must be 100% committed to ensuring any firearms you bring into a house with kids is behind a lock any time it is not on your person. In your situation I would recommend you have a handgun on your hip at all times you are awake. If you need more help with fireams advice/tactics/resources I can help you.

If firearms are not right choice for you (they aren't if you can't be 100% committed to ensuring it is impossible for the kids to get access) there are other less effective tools. I prefer pepper spray and carry it in addition to a firearm. Get some small canisters for on body carry and some of these larger canisters for in the home. Understand that when you deploy the spray everyone will be impacted and it will only buy some time to escape. I do not recommend stun guns as they are inconsistent and many people recover fairly quickly when they are done riding the lightning. Knives are effective at creating fatal wounds but not effective at stopping threats. A wounded attacker can still inflict damage for minutes after receiving a fatal stab wound. So I would not recommend those unless you have some knife defense proficiency already. Striking tools like batons and baseball bats can be effective medium range tools but can also be used against you if you are disarmed and rarely incapacitate in a single swing. These tools are only to ensure you and your household survive in the event you have to fight for your life, awareness and avoiding the fight is your most effective tool and only if your awareness fails should you have to resort to your fighting tools.

Hopefully your cameras can catch this individual doing something significant enough that the police will get involved and remove them from the general public. You can't depend on that though and have to have a layered approach to ensuring the safety of yourself and everyone in your household. Good luck!

edit: my phone bugged and I had to finish this from my computer, sorry for the originally cut off response.

Why not just get the Hikvision NVR Link

Its the same price and you don't have to worry about any ONVIF issues. It also is a Plug and Play model so it supplies the POE for the cameras.

You will also need a HDD for storage. I use WD Purple Drives.

For work we use alot of DS-2CD2132F-I-2.8MM cameras. They do a good job for what they cost. I would be sure to update the firmware on your NVR and Cameras when you get them.

If you want space on the rear of the camera to make connections you want a CB110 for each camera. Though if they are going under the soffit you should be able to make the connections there.

The software you want to use with the NVR is [iVMS-4200] (http://overseas.hikvision.com/us/Tools_84.html) go to Client Software and download the newest version.

It depends....
So Milestone is free for up to 8 cameras.
So a PC:
https://www.ebay.com/itm/Lenovo-ThinkCentre-M92p-Tiny-i5-3470T-2-9GHz-8GB-500GB-Windows-10-Pro/132724124719?hash=item1ee6f96c2f:g:1O8AAOSwGL1baz-6

Tiny - power efficient, easy to upgrade Hard drive and has legit windows license.

Cameras:
https://www.amazon.com/2560x1440-Surveillance-Security-Detection-RLC-410/dp/B010LH48F4
$60 each

POE switch (provides network connection to camera AND power)
https://www.ebay.com/itm/HP-POE-SWITCH-2530-8-POE-8-PORT-10-100-1000-JL070A-FREE-SHIPPING/332794776491?hash=item4d7c1d4bab:g:wHoAAOSwQS1bkFDT

$120ish

The HP switch has a lifetime warranty as long as you have a business address to send any replacements to.

I've twice in the last 4-5 years had lightning strike and take out my switch (HP replaced both times) and the last time it also killed the camera (Reolink replaced the camera under their warranty).

So there are the costs if you roll your own solution. It's not for everyone so let others here suggest what you should/shouldn't do.

I'll note that Reolink the cameras that I like for their cost/performance value also make an NVR. Same caution there with the updates, but at least the cameras that come with it are re-usable if say 5 years from now the NVR is no longer being updated.

Good luck with whatever you do :-)

I'm pretty irked with Swann as my only a few year old system they stopped supporting Android after version 4.0. It also requires an ancient version of IE, very low security settings, and compatibility mode.

I'm using these cameras with great success:
https://www.amazon.com/Security-Reolink-POE-Detection-RLC-410/dp/B010LH48F4/ref=sr_1_1?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1465913762&sr=1-1&keywords=reolink
I personally have replaced it with IP cameras and Xprotect Go (free for 8 cameras). And haven't looked back....

I would put up the 'Chunky doesn't live here' sign with a nice big red store bought 'No trespassing' sign underneath it on every window and door in the back of your apartment. I think that even illiterate crackheads would probably know what 'No trespassing' means. I would not mention anything about the police; someone might consider that a challenge.

I would also think about some inexpensive upgrades to security, especially on the back of your apartment. Use a security bar like this, or cut a piece of broomstick to block the track if it is a sliding door, and get longer screws for the doorjamb. Amazon also has some cheap, 120db door and window alarms that have excellent reviews. They are battery operated with no wiring. Could you do more with more cash? Most certainly. But for $50 or less you can upgrade your security pretty significantly. edit:formatting

I just came across this in another post: http://www.amazon.com/Master-Lock-265DCCSEN-Dual-Function-Security/dp/B0002YUX8I

I wonder how effective this is? Looks cheap and not very masculine (lol), but if it works good it might be worth a shot.

I like the idea of Door Jamb Armor. Has anyone had experience with that Armor Concepts one?

I'm running a similar setup with 3 3mp Dahua cams and 1 Foscam PTZ cam. Like others have stated Blue Iris can be CPU intensive however an i5 or i7 definitely isn't required. I'm running it with an old Intel Core 2 Quad Q9550 with 6 gigs of RAM and a 3tb WD purple. Once I optimized my camera settings, my CPU idles at around 30% and peaks at 70% when all the cams are triggered at the same time. You can easily assemble a PC cable of running Blue Iris with those 3 cams for $300 or less.
For Example:

• CPU~$50
  
• MOBO $30
  
• 8GB Ram $35
  
• 2 TB NVR HD $83 You'd just need a cheap case and power supply and you'd be set, this is by no means an ideal setup but it works fine for me.

Have a look at this one. Just asking to connect your devices and your DVR via Internet with P2P technology, it features 4 HD Bullet Indoor/Outdoor Cameras & Super DVR. As a 1.3MP 960P 2000TVL waterproof (IP66) outdoor security camera, it gives you clear true color images.

I am using the Reolink camera for my own house and love it. And I add one for my parents' house on the Amazon Prime Day. Given you budget and requirement, you can try this security system out https://www.amazon.com/Reolink-Security-Channel-Outdoor-RLK8-410B4/dp/B01AHXEHSU/ref=sr_1_4?m=A15NUCR7ITLOD6&s=merchant-items&ie=UTF8&qid=1499940771&sr=1-4. Not sure it still has discounts. Hope it can help you!

I know this is an old post, but Looks like Nelly's has the same NVR for $90. I just bought it, but haven't set it up yet.

Eyesurv ION Series ESDV-NVRION-8 8 Channel 1080p Hi Def Mini NVR for IP Cameras - $90 + Shipping

I also just bought this 8POE + 1 switch off amazon prime:
Eagle Eye 9 Port 10/100 Switch (8 Port POE + 1 Uplink) SW09i - $80

How about this one? It is a 1.3MP 960P 2000TVL waterproof (IP66) outdoor security camera. With 1080N resolution AHD DVR to provideclear true color images. Its IR night vision LED provides B/W image during night; IR-cut filter blocks infrared waves while passing visible light for true color image and less heating. Now it is on big sale down to $175.99 on the store. Hope this could help you.

Those Dahua cameras are great options. Their prices are looking better and better, too. On the NVR equipment side, I found an 8-channel NVR for $90 here, and a PoE switch with 8 powered ports and one uplink port for $80 here.

Hi,

I would recommend a Hikvision NVR like this, and 3MP or 4MP Hikvision IP cameras to suit your installation locations. It is important to choose the camera type based on where you will install it - I like to use dome cameras for front porches (vandal-resistant), bullets for back yard etc (deterrent, flexibility of positioning).

I have written an in-depth guide on how to choose IP cameras here on my blog and these are my recommended IP cameras. I use Hikvision bullets and domes myself.

Daniel

I don't know what you are talking about but:

http://www.amazon.com/Master-Lock-265DCCSEN-Dual-Function-Security/dp/B0002YUX8I

My parents had one and I managed to open the door partially coming home drunk one night back in high school. It does stop the door from opening very much, and honestly if someone is strong enough to force it then they likely can't fit through the small gap created.

I highly recommend one.

Pretty well any camera system has motion detection. This cam is $25 but dont rely on it as an alarm. I keep the audio and video on at night on my phone to watch my baby.
https://www.amazon.com/Wyze-Labs-Wireless-Camera-WYZEC1/dp/B076H3SRXG

Guns are nice for living in the country. Whether you're into them or not, shotguns can be purchased for relatively low cost and are a bit more comforting than baseball bats when things go bump in the night.

Also, move that couch and install a couple secure deadbolt locks.

As to whether or not I think someone could be breaking in, my philosophy is that it's better to be safe than sorry. It could be that your neighbor is paranoid. It is equally as likely that someone is testing doorknobs in your area to see which house is unlocked and easy to rob. Either way, police response times in county lands are never great.

Stay safe!

These are simple but effective as deterrents, so long as she holds herself to install it each time they are in for the day/night. Depending on how much “modification” you can do to the apt, these are even better.

I've recently become a huge fan of the Hikvision cameras after buying one. Resolution is amazing and loaded with features.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00G7GMEOG/ref=cm_sw_r_other_awd_xaMxwbSR5KS8T

I also run Blue Iris from Foscam for my NVR and it works great. I have my recording database set in my Dropbox so it uploads to the cloud in case a thief were to steal/destroy my PC.

I am doing research myself right now trying to figure out what will work best for a ~7 camera setup at my home. Here is what I have come across so far, hope it helps;

Most likely to buy;

TRENDnet

Microseven

HUACAM

Dahua

Dahua 2

Also considering;

Foscam

Foscam 2

Hikvision

It is sounding like they might be a good option then.

I'm concerned about security with remote streaming. If you check out the first review here you'll see somebody mentioned it: https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/cr/B01AHXEHSU/

This person mentioned a concern also: https://reolink.com/topic/issues-that-reolink-has-not-resolved/#post-26468

Other than that it is really looking good.

What have your clients said about the system? Any complaints?

These are options as well.

Door Armor MAX – Complete Door Reinforcement Set in Satin Nickel — Door Security by Armor Concepts https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00E9ZGWNQ/ref=cm_sw_r_other_apa_DycVAb8SY33RQ


As another reddit user mentioned, longer screws improve the lock's security.

Thanks mah duders and dudets problem solved I think Im going with this one: https://www.amazon.com/Wyze-Indoor-Wireless-Camera-Vision/dp/B076H3SRXG/ref=sr_1_3?keywords=wyze&qid=1557433742&s=gateway&sr=8-3

all recommendations are still welcome though

I recently built my own pretty decent surveillance system for less than $1000. You'd have to be willing to DIY and run the wires to each camera. But I personally think it's worth it.

ReoLink PoE Cameras x 4 = $220

LinkSys PoE+ Switch = $219

1000 ft CAT6 Cable = $60

Decent i5 Intel PC = About $300

BlueIris NVR Software = $60

I'm using a foscam ~$60.00
http://www.amazon.com/Foscam-FI8910W-Network-Camera-Two-Way/dp/B006ZP8UOW.

One of these types of cameras work pretty well, and can be viewed & controlled through both a computer and your phone. They can also send motion & sound detect pic uploads to your email (6 at a time). You can also setup continuous record through a computer at home on our network to an external hard drive in replace of a dvr.

you can reinforce a door jam pretty cheaply:

https://www.amazon.com/Door-Armor-MAX-Complete-Reinforcement/dp/B00E9ZGWNQ

that would assume a solid door, not hollow core that could be kicked in

THese things are great. Your door will still come down, but this will give you a few extra precious seconds.

http://www.amazon.com/Master-Lock-265DCCSEN-Dual-Function-Security/dp/B0002YUX8I/ref=wl_itt_dp_o?ie=UTF8&coliid=I14F1D2532IAIU&colid=17ESE6K63FYOL

You may want to look at DIY alarm systems, or a wireless camera you can control with something like ZONEMINDER.

Also, if you are on a budget you may not be able to aquire a $2000 1911 race-gun, but I betcha that for around $200 you can buy a brand new, ugly yet 100% reliable Hi-Point pistol in 9mm.

Think I found my answer here!

https://www.amazon.com/Amcrest-IP2M-841-1920TVL-Wireless-Camera/dp/B0145OQTPG

Thanks!

Motion. Activated. Lights.

Put a set on every side of your house.

Additionally these are ~$25.99 a piece and while they aren't the most awesome cameras in the world, they more than do the trick:

https://www.amazon.com/Wyze-Indoor-Wireless-Camera-Vision/dp/B076H3SRXG

If you're looking to spend a bit more money I'd recommend Unifi or Blink depending on your technical ability.

this works pretty good imo http://www.amazon.com/Master-Lock-265DCCSEN-Dual-Function-Security/dp/B0002YUX8I

For that price range I would probably go with this Reolink set myself.

https://www.amazon.com/Security-4Megapixel-2560x1440-Surveillance-RLK8-410B4/dp/B01AHXEHSU

Or this NVR: https://reolink.com/product/rln8-410/
With a few of these nicer 5MP cameras: https://reolink.com/product/rlc-411/

>my interest in guns has rapidly diminished since this happened

This is interesting because you used the gun in the way it was intended. I wonder if you wish now that you'd just had a big ass can of pepper spray. Having been through this ordeal, is this an alternative you would advocate?

I have a foscam camera which can do this. There is a little config work to do, but nothing too hard. Point the camera at the door and then in the admin interface go to Device Management > Alarm Service Settings. You can set up an email alert, and image(s) upload on detection of motion.


I'm sure many IP cameras have that feature, I just happen to have the foscam.

Got it, thank you!
I started googling Reolink after your mention and found this link. Reolink has way more mentions than Qsee online so I'm thinking about going with that instead.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01AHXEHSU/

I'm about to replace all my DVR cameras, and DVR, with Reolink cameras, a POE switch and new computer using either Blueiris or Milestone.

According to this write-up, your computer should handle 3 cameras just fine.

You will also need a POE switch. This was recommended in another thread, of which I cannot find.

I recently purchased 5 Reolink cameras and the above switch. Now, I just need the computer and already have the drives.

Links:

Deadbolt Flip Guard

Door Armor

Defender Security Door Reinforcement Locks

I havent used them, yet, but on Amazon it has 4 1/2 stars with 882 reviews... You can read through those and get a decent idea of what you would be getting

http://www.amazon.com/Foscam-FI8910W-Wireless-Network-Camera/dp/B006ZP8UOW/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1348682639&sr=8-1&keywords=fi8910w

I found some 4 camera systems at $200, but not with audio. The cheapest 4 camera system I found with audio was Reolink on Amazon.

https://www.amazon.com/Surveillance-Supported-Security-Recording-RLK8-410B4/dp/B01AHXEHSU/ref=sr_1_16?keywords=camera+security+system+with+audio&qid=1564306878&s=gateway&sr=8-16

I went with the Foscam FI8910W. These are admittedly pretty cheap, consumer grade products but for my application they work great. We wanted to monitor all ingress points to our home and we wanted motion detection and email alerts without having to pay a subscription fee. Regarding the full day recording, what I did was setup a local FTP server on an old laptop and have the cameras push a stream to the server when the motion detection alarm is triggered. It's not exactly 24x7 recording and you have to monitor space on the FTP server but drive space is cheap and you can configure the camera to have motion detection on 24x7 so you can get close. You can also setup remote access via dynamic DNS but I'm not interested in allowing that kind of ingress in to my home network. They aren't terrible covert, there are smaller form factors out there with better resolution but the price was usually much higher or you had to sign up for some monthly service which was a deal killer for me. If you get creative they aren't terribly hard to hide. They come with some good mounting hardware if you need to suspend them or have them at an odd angle. They do require a power outlet, no battery option on this model. The only real complaint I have about these cameras is the setup was difficult for the first one due to some firmware issues but they appear to have resolved the problem with the latest firmware patch.

I bought mine off Amazon and plan on buy at least two more:

http://www.amazon.com/Foscam-FI8910W-Network-Camera-Two-Way/dp/B006ZP8UOW

Motion Sensors

Camera

I dont know about glass break detectors or open window sensors, I just placed the motion sensor in direct line of the only window entry points to my house. I then hooked up the motion sensor base to a raspberry pi and arduino that will text and email me a picture from the camera as soon as the motion sensor is tripped.

Maybe door reinforcement?

• Install reinforcement plates on all your outer doors:
  Door Armor

http://www.amazon.com/Hikvision-DS-2CD2032-I-Outdoor-Bullet-Security/dp/B00G7GMEOG

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0145OQTPG/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I didn't see it as saying open box. This was the listing.

https://www.amazon.com/Amcrest-IP2M-841-1920TVL-Wireless-Camera/dp/B0145OQTPG

I believe amcrest is going to make it right with a new device, cross shipped or 1 year extra cloud access.

> Wyze

https://www.amazon.com/Wyze-1080p-Indoor-Camera-Vision/dp/B07DGR98VQ/ref=sr_1_3?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1537987610&sr=1-3&keywords=Wyze

This one?

https://www.amazon.com/Wyze-Indoor-Wireless-Camera-Vision/dp/B076H3SRXG/ref=sr_1_4?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1537987610&sr=1-4&keywords=Wyze

?

Wyze camera. $25.99 on Amazon.

I must have been confused then. I see on another thread this item was recommended; what say you?

http://www.amazon.com/Eagle-Port-Switch-Uplink-SW09i/dp/B00H58P8RU/ref=pd_cp_pc_2

Security bar? Nothing to screw in, no changes to door or floor. Admittedly, only works while you're IN the apartment.

A lot of people would not be comfortable having or using a gun. I understand that. If that’s the case you should add as many other additional layers of security as you can to dissuade someone from coming in in the first place;

• trim large shrubs against house someone could hide behind
  
• add quality motion lights (RAB 360 Stealth I recommend to all my friends)
  
• quality hard wired security cameras (avoid WiFi/battery if you can). If you/spouse/friend are a little tech savvy and can run a wire you can setup a very advanced camera system to alert you immediately when someone approaches. Time buys you a lot more options
  
• making sure all doors and windows are always locked
  
• securing doors and windows properly
  
• alarm system
  
• DOG (one of the best deterrents)...if you like them and they’d get along with your cats. Big investment though I get it
  
• if worst comes to worst I’d have one of these on hand and go crazy with it: SABRE Red Pepper Gel - Police Strength - Family, Home & Property Defense Gel with Wall Mount Bracket https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002368VJ6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_04C2CbQRHHK0W
  
  If you want to add an alarm sign to the yard add the sign from a different alarm company. Probably not going to have to worry about sophisticated burglars that look up ways to circumvent specific systems but it’s possible so can’t hurt to avoid that possibility. Beware of dog sign can’t hurt either.

My first recommendation will always be to get a gun an training, however if you're not comfortable with that (as you stated in another comment) then that's ok too. The worst thing you can do is buy a gun you're not going to use that can potentially be used against you. Regardless of what some other clueless users may state, the sound alone will NOT scare off an intruder

So, given that, it sounds in your situation like your only reasonable point of entry is the front door, so beef it up.


As another user stated you can get a better deadbolt and it doesn't have to break the bank. Just do your homework, get a grade I lock, and stay away from your cheaper locks (pretty much anything made by kwikset).

In addition, the door reinforcement kit is a good option as most break-ins tend to simply be kicking the door in. What actually happens in this situation is that the force of the kick is actually driving your metal deadbolt through the wooden frame of the door, splintering the frame. A reinforcement kit and longer screws (a good 3" wood screw ought to do it) will help mitigate this risk.


Hope this helps

get a dog, alarm system.

you can buy cheap $20 door jam rods, they work for sliding and normal doors.

Master Lock 265D Door Security Bar, Adjustable from 27-1/2 in. to 44-1/2 in, White, Pack of 1 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0002YUX8I/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_phGFDbX79DSEG

strengthen your doors with longer lock screws and reinforced metal frame parts.

buy and train with a gun. have a family plan and drill and practice what you all should do.

get more motion sensor lights.

even if you don’t have them get those big warning stickers for gates and windows/doors that indicate you have a big ass dog and or a security system.

maybe you can find some half joking half serious sticker that has a picture of a pit bull ‘My Pitbull Will Bite and Never Let Go’

Hopefully it was just some drunk neighborhood kid accidentally wandering into the wrong yard, but trying a doorknob to see if it's unlocked is a really common way thieves get into homes. We recently installed Door Armor (it's on Amazon) that basically makes your door very difficult to kick down. If you don't want to commit to that (because it does drill into your doorjamb) you could look into a security bar which just jams itself under your doorknob to secure the door. It won't stop someone forever, but it will slow them down enough (and cause them to make enough noise) that they will likely abandon.

Also, it's a good idea alert all your neighbors so everyone is paying attention (which is probably what your neighbor was thinking, so good for her).

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0014A4JWU/ref=sr_ph?ie=UTF8&qid=1466991186&sr=1&keywords=alarm
real cheap door alarm

https://www.amazon.com/Doberman-Security-SE-0106-4PK-Ultra-Slim-Window/dp/B010HWD65Q/ref=sr_1_2?s=hi&ie=UTF8&qid=1466991209&sr=1-2&keywords=window+alarm

real cheap window alarms

https://www.amazon.com/Master-Lock-265DCCSEN-Dual-Function-Security/dp/B0002YUX8I/ref=sr_1_2?s=hi&ie=UTF8&qid=1466991241&sr=1-2&keywords=buddy+bar

cheap door bar

https://www.amazon.com/Buddybar-10311-Door-Jammer/dp/B002BQ4VBU/ref=sr_1_1?s=hi&ie=UTF8&qid=1466991241&sr=1-1&keywords=buddy+bar

better door bar

https://www.amazon.com/Cardinal-Gates-Door-Guardian-White/dp/B004RL1IMC/ref=sr_1_22?s=hi&ie=UTF8&qid=1466991276&sr=1-22&keywords=door+lock

cheap extra door lock

https://www.amazon.com/SABRE-3---1-Pepper-Spray/dp/B0007VHXLG/ref=sr_1_1?s=hi&ie=UTF8&qid=1466991342&sr=1-1&keywords=sabre+large

spray

https://www.amazon.com/Blink-Security-Wireless-Detection-Android/dp/B019S3ULQM/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1466991363&sr=8-2&keywords=blink

relatively cheap cams

remember OP, rather be poor from spending money on all this shit than dead. layers count.