With business, industry and commerce spreading at a rapid rate, there is a greater need to protect property and assets. For this purpose, security and surveillance cameras are often used. The use of these gadgets is no longer restricted to secret agents and undercover government agencies. Increase in demand has made security equipment affordable, so people are now using it to protect their businesses and houses. Security cameras are available in all shapes and sizes. Wired security cameras can be fitted in wall clocks, speakers and smoke detectors, while wireless security cameras are even more flexible and can be placed almost anywhere.

Internet wireless security cameras permit remote monitoring of video. The camera transfers signals through a wireless network router or LAN adapter to a particular IP address. These are commonly used to keep a constant watch on the premises or property when out of town or on vacation. Built in motion sensors may even send e-mail warnings in case of movement.

These power-driven cameras can, at times, be supported by small 9-volt batteries, which are enough to provide eight or more hours of energy. Even slightest movement in front of the camera activates the built-in motion sensors. When triggered, the camera begins to record video, take pictures for future viewing or send live videos to a computer.

Digital security cameras are widely used. These are small in size but are designed to record for long periods. These are popular as matter recorded can easily be edited or saved on a computer, which can be accessed at any time. This system also eliminates the need to manage recorded tapes, which can be sensitive to temperature and other factors, as well as space consuming. However, it is important to keep in mind that these cameras are not to be used for unethical activities and spying on other people as this is a punishable offense.

A popular use of these cameras is to monitor the behavior of nannies and babysitters when parents are away at work. This technology is also used to protect people