There’s no need for an expensive, professionally installed home security system for a little peace of mind. You can keep tabs on your home when you’re away, check in on your kids or pets, and discourage intruders with a few well-placed security cameras and connected devices. Easily the smartest option on the market right now, Google’s Nest cameras and doorbells are straightforward to install.
Here’s everything you need to know about getting started with home security using Google Home and Nest cameras.
Selecting and Installing Security Cameras
First, you need to figure out how many cameras you need and where to place them. You’ll want to pay special attention to any points of entry to your home and think about where intruders are most likely to access your property. Think back doors, sliding doors, side doors, large downstairs windows, and your garage or other outbuildings. Try to consider potential blind spots.
It’s a good idea to install cameras in shaded spots, such as under eaves, to protect the lens from the glare of the sun and reduce the risk of overheating. But you also want cameras to be a visible deterrent, so don’t hide them away. Many intruders will be scared off by a camera with a green status light that shows it is recording.
Google suggests 6.5 feet as a good height for its outdoor security cameras. You need to also pick spots with a strong Wi-Fi signal and consider adjacent power for wired cameras. Setup is as simple as scanning a QR code in the Google Home app, screwing in a magnetic mount, and adjusting the camera angle for the best view. For indoor cameras, you can also simply pop them on a shelf or wall mount them.
Photograph: Julian Chokkattu
The latest and greatest Nest Cam Indoor (8/10, WIRED Recommends) can record crystal clear 2K footage at 30 frames per second (fps) and has HDR to balance mixed lighting. It also offers two-way audio, which can be handy for checking in with the kids. Each camera comes with an adjustable mount and a 10-foot USB-C cable. You have a choice of colors: Snow (white), Hazel (gray-green), or a striking Berry (red). Place one in your hallway, and you can keep tabs on who is home and get alerts if any unfamiliar faces pop up.
Photograph: Simon Hill
If you can run cables to power outlets, I recommend the newest Nest Cam Outdoor 2K (8/10, WIRED Recommends). Each camera comes with an 18-foot cable that plugs into an outlet, and a clever magnetic mount with all the fixings (you cannot hardwire it). You get clear video day or night in 2560 x 1400-pixel resolution at 30 fps with HDR. The Nest Cam Outdoor also has a wide 152-degree field of view and 6X digital zoom capability, so it can pick up on distant intruders or vehicles as they approach. This camera only comes in Snow or Hazel. Chances are you’ll need more than one, and you can save some cash with a two-pack ($250).
... continue reading