Network Design
CCTV installers often use Layer 2 (L2) networks as switches are simple to install, require minimal, if any, configuration and the equipment tends to be inexpensive. Expansion simply involves plugging in another switch and all devices use a single range of IP addresses. While this approach works for a small internal network it does not scale well as the network expands, nor does it provide any protection from access once links are extended out into public areas.
L3 routed topologies have been best practice for many years and should always be implemented in any new network design. They are more complex to configure but provide a slew of advantages over L2, including security, link failover, load balancing and monitoring solutions which are all impossible at L2.
Hygrinet provides design, configuration and commissioning of L3 networks using open standards, designed in accordance with industry best practice, currently NSI's NCP 104.3 Part 7.20
Security
In this connected world, security of networked systems is paramount. Security encompasses physical access to devices and the network, the logical design of the network itself and the applications running services over that network.
CCTV provides some interesting security challenges. One basic tenet of network security is that a malicious user should be physically prevented from connecting to the network. In an IP CCTV system network links extend out into public areas and, with a simple L2 design, the consequences of malicious access, even with minimal knowlege, will likely be disastrous.
By securing the network at a number of layers malicious access from publicly accessible links can be all but prevented and the scope of any attack mitigated.
Using a number of solutions in concert Hygrinet will secure the bridge to the outside world from malicious access, provide secure connections across public networks and provide training to maintainers allowing them to operate this new system.
Wireless
Modern wireless technology is evolving fast. The plethora of bands and technologies now available to end users, often with low or zero spectrum license costs, opens up a new set of possibilities for CCTV users and installers.
WiFi-derived 2.4GHz or 5GHz products are available at low cost and can be extremely effective at providing short to medium range links. Unfortunately band congestion has become a major issue, especially in urban areas where WiFi is ubiquitous.
V-Band (60GHz) transcievers can now provide a license-exempt, low interference alternative to 5GHz links, with drastically increased bandwidth possibilities at reasonable cost. Such is the cost / performance of these devices they have become a viable alternative to fibre links, either as backhaul between sites or as links to cameras.
Hygrinet can specify and test moden, high performance V-band radios to connect remote sites, as well as interfacing networks to the public Internet allowing 4G connected cameras secure access to internal recording infrastructure.
Troubleshooting
Due to their complex nature IP networks are more difficult to debug and troubleshoot than their composite-over-coax predecessors. A plethora of problems can crop up during network operation, such as buggy IP cameras filling links with traffic or packet loss across a damaged or unsuitable link. These problems can be difficult to diagnose without expertise and an effective testing methodology.
With a long history of diagnosing and fixing various issues involving IP video Hygrinet is well placed to provide troubleshooting services, regardless of who initially installed the network.
Hygrinet also provides audit and planning services, helping CCTV users to understand the limitations of their current IP network and providing a full system audit to document or re-document an existing installation, with a view to upgrading.
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