The takeaway: Wi-Fi security cameras won’t work if a strong Wi-Fi signal isn’t close by–something that is all too common in rural America. 4G security cameras offer a more secure, more stable solution.
Those living in rural parts of America are all too familiar with problems when it comes to securing properties and belongings.
Power may be unreliable or nonexistent, Wi-Fi coverage is poor, and neighbors and police are far away. The lack of good Wi-Fi can be particularly challenging, especially when it comes to protecting assets like barns, sheds, equipment, livestock, and more. Traditional security cameras that rely on Wi-Fi simply can’t do their job if the Wi-Fi doesn’t exist. And that assumes there is a nearby outlet to begin with–something many barns or sheds just don’t have.
Rural Security Problems: Slow Wi-Fi, No Power
Rural properties are often too large for standard Wi-Fi network ranges, and there can be sizable signal dead zones caused by buildings or terrain. Plus, many rural areas have limited broadband availability. In fact, a surprising number of rural Americans still have dial-up internet, and tens of millions don’t have access to Wi-Fi with download speeds of at least 25 Mbps.
Even in areas that do have sufficiently fast Wi-Fi, there can be issues that rural areas face.
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Limited range: A typical Wi-Fi network coverage area may only stretch a few hundred feet from the router, meaning it doesn’t reach outbuildings or the ends of long driveways.
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Signal interference: Metal buildings, grain bins, or dense forest can block Wi-Fi signals and create dead zones.
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Lack of power: Remote locations may lack a reliable power source for a wired camera.
What’s a rural property owner seeking a security camera solution to do?
4G Security Solution for Rural Areas
Security cameras that rely on 4G for their data connection rather than Wi-Fi bypass many of these problems. By connecting to a cellular signal instead of a Wi-Fi network, cameras can be placed even in remote sections of a rural property, including those far from the main house and in areas with no electricity.
The DEFEND Camera and DEFEND 360 both feature wireless designs, with power from rechargeable batteries and a solar panel, and data connections through 4G signals–just like your phone. Here’s a look at these cameras in more detail:
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DEFEND Camera: DEFEND’s original security camera, this hard-working stalwart has 4K resolution, live viewing options, a 100-foot image range, fast shutter speed, long battery life, and is IP66 waterproof certified. You can power this camera nearly indefinitely through use of a rechargeable lithium battery and backup solar panel.
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DEFEND 360: DEFEND’s newest camera features an included rechargeable battery and solar panel for continuous power without the need for a wall outlet. It has 360-degree tilt, pan, and zoom features for comprehensive security coverage, as well as IP65 waterproof certification, fast trigger speed, low-glow IR flash, and more.
Both DEFEND cameras are controlled through the DEFEND App, an intuitive and easy-to-use app that lets you activate and manage cameras, view live feeds and motion-activated imagery, and more.
The cameras have built-in e-SIMs with auto carrier selection. This means that no matter where you are, the cameras automatically look for and connect to the strongest cell signal–you don’t need to lift a finger. They operate based on one of three data plans, with no contracts and no hidden fees, and all connections are independent of whatever cell carrier your phone has.