Can Security Cameras Work During a Power or Internet Outage?

Many business owners wonder if their security cameras work during a power or internet outage. The short answer is yes—but only if you have the right system and backup solutions in place. Without backup power or onboard storage, most traditional cameras will stop recording the moment the lights go out.

This matters more than you might think. Criminals often strike during storms and blackouts when they know security systems might fail. In fact, some intruders intentionally cut power before breaking in. That's why planning for outages should be part of every security strategy.

In this guide, we'll explain what happens to your cameras during outages. We'll also show you how to keep them running no matter what.

What Happens to Security Cameras During a Power Outage?

Most wired security cameras need constant power to operate. When the electricity goes out, these cameras shut off immediately. They stop recording, and you lose your video feed. Your DVR or NVR recorder also shuts down, which means no footage gets saved.

Wireless cameras face the same problem. Even though they connect via WiFi, they still plug into outlets for power. No power means no recording.

Here's what typically fails during an outage:

• Live video feeds stop completely
• Motion detection no longer works
• Cloud uploads pause without internet
• Recording halts on your DVR or NVR
• Remote access through your phone disappears

The good news? Modern security systems offer several ways to stay protected during blackouts.

How Security Cameras Can Keep Working During Outages

You have several options to keep your security cameras running during a power or internet outage. The best solution depends on your budget and security needs.

Battery Backup Systems (UPS)

An Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) keeps your cameras running when the power fails. These devices contain batteries that kick in instantly during an outage. Your cameras never skip a beat.

A basic UPS can power a small camera system for 30 minutes to several hours. Larger units can last even longer. According to SafeHome.org, quality UPS systems provide 4-10 milliseconds of transfer time, so your cameras won't even need to reboot.

For best results, connect these devices to your UPS:

• Security cameras
• DVR or NVR recorder
• Internet modem and router
• PoE switch (if you use one)

Cameras with Built-In Battery Backup

Some modern cameras include internal batteries. These cameras keep recording even when wall power fails. Battery life varies by model, but many last 2-4 hours on backup power.

Hybrid cloud cameras offer another advantage. They store footage both locally and in the cloud. If internet fails but power stays on, they save video to internal storage. When connectivity returns, they upload everything automatically.

Onboard Storage with SD Cards

Cameras with SD card slots can record locally during outages. Even without internet, they save footage directly to the memory card. You can review this footage later once power returns.

This feature works especially well when:

• Internet goes down but power stays on
• Cloud services experience problems
• You want an extra backup layer

Cellular Backup for Internet Outages

What if your power stays on but internet fails? Cellular backup solves this problem. Some security systems include LTE modules that switch to cellular data when broadband drops.

This keeps your cameras connected to monitoring services. You can still receive alerts and view live feeds on your phone. The switch happens automatically in most cases.

Hybrid Cloud Cameras: The Best Protection

Hybrid cloud security cameras offer the most reliable protection during outages. These systems combine local and cloud storage for maximum security. Verkada cameras, for example, store footage directly on the camera itself.

Here's how hybrid cloud cameras handle different outage scenarios:

Power outage only:

• Camera shuts down (unless battery backup exists)
• Previously recorded footage stays safe on the camera
• Cloud footage remains accessible

Internet outage only:

• Camera keeps recording locally
• Footage syncs to cloud when internet returns
• No gaps in your security coverage

Both power and internet out:

• Battery backup keeps cameras running
• Local storage saves all footage
• Full sync happens after restoration

This layered approach means you never lose critical footage. Even during extended outages, your security stays intact.

Planning Your Backup Strategy

Every business should plan for security camera outages before they happen. Start by asking these questions:

1. How long do power outages typically last in your area?
2. What's your budget for backup solutions?
3. Which cameras protect your most critical areas?
4. Do you need remote access during outages?

For most businesses, we recommend this approach:

• Install a UPS on your main recording equipment
• Choose cameras with onboard storage capabilities
• Consider cellular backup if monitoring is critical
• Test your system regularly to confirm everything works

Professional Installation Makes a Difference

Setting up reliable backup power requires careful planning. You need to calculate power requirements, choose the right equipment, and install everything correctly. A professional security installer handles all of this for you.

At Wired, we design complete security camera systems with backup power built in. Our team assesses your facility, identifies vulnerabilities, and recommends the right solutions. We make sure your cameras keep working when you need them most.

Don't Wait for an Outage to Find Out

The worst time to discover your security system fails during outages is after a break-in. Smart business owners prepare ahead of time. They invest in backup power, choose cameras with onboard storage, and test their systems regularly.

Power outages happen without warning. Storms, accidents, and grid failures can strike anytime. Your security shouldn't depend on perfect conditions.

Ready to protect your business around the clock? Contact Wired today for a free security assessment. Our team will evaluate your current system and recommend backup solutions that fit your needs and budget. Let's make sure your cameras never miss a moment—even when the power goes out.