Knowledge base
faq · CCTV
CCTV recording storage: how long footage is kept and why
Which factors define how many days of footage are stored and how to extend it.
Select Security1 min read
What retention depends on
- Number of cameras and resolution
- Bitrate and frame rate
- Codec (H.265/H.265+ usually needs less space than H.264)
- Recording mode: continuous or motion-only
- Hard disk capacity
How to extend it
- Enable H.265+ or an equivalent codec if camera and recorder support it.
- Use motion or event-based recording.
- Choose a hard disk designed for surveillance.
When the internet is down
The NVR/DVR keeps recording locally; the internet is needed only for remote viewing.
A Select Security specialist will calculate the exact disk size for your site.
#CCTV#FAQ
Related articles
PoE power budget: choosing the right switch for IP cameras
PoE standards, total switch budget and the 100 m cable limit for stable IP camera installations.
IP intercom: why the door station and indoor monitor cannot see each other
The most common causes and a step-by-step check when IP intercom devices will not connect.
Alarm sensor wiring explained: NO/NC, EOL and tamper
What NO and NC contacts mean, why EOL resistors are used and how tamper protection works.