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As more embark on the journey of remote work, the demand to find the best webcams also expands. Webcams are now a modern staple of communication technology, but finding the right one can be a pain. Consumers often feel they need to buy something traditionally marketed as a webcam, but, in reality, many devices can double as webcams. Below, we’ll show you how this is possible as we explain how to use an IP as a webcam.
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
And IP cameras aren’t the only webcam alternative. We also have a guide on how to use a GoPro as a webcam.
IP stands for “internet protocol,” meaning the camera has a separate IP address, allowing it to receive and send data over a network feed. IP cameras are usually considered security devices but aren’t limited to this role and can be used as a webcam in just a few simple steps because of their network connectivity. Another great thing about IP cameras is that users can take additional steps to figure out how to access the webcam remotely once they are set up.
Insider Tip
Users can also convert traditional webcams into security cameras.
For a guide on more commonly used devices, we have a similar article that explains how to use an iPhone as a webcam.
Research your IP camera to see if it can be used as a webcam. You can find this through your IP camera manufacturer’s internet support page.
If your device can convert to an IP webcam, download the firmware to your computer.
Download the firmware data onto an SD card. Then remove the SD card from the computer and stick it into the SD card slot on your IP webcam. Then consult your user manual on how to download programs from the SD card. Downloading the webcam application file may take a few minutes.
Open your preferred webcam app, whether Google Meet, Microsoft Teams, Skype, or Zoom. Then, plug the cable into your computer’s USB port. This should transition the video feed from your built-in webcam to the new IP virtual webcam.
Many apps allow you to enhance video quality by changing the resolution, mirroring, contrast, and brightness.
Once you know the device works, enter your computer’s device manager settings menu to set the new IP webcam as default and disable your built-in camera.
Warning
Many IP cameras have built-in microphones that are poor quality, so it’s recommended you purchase an external microphone.
STAT: One study showed that Americans are captured on security footage 238 times weekly. (source)
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