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How to access security cameras remotely
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Access security cameras
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Olga Weis Olga Weis Last updated Apr 28, 2024

How to access security cameras remotely

So, you need to access a security camera remotely, only not sure how to make this work, e.g. having issues with viewing a security camera over the Internet, Wi-Fi, or any other network, except for your LAN?

Just keep reading this post for an easy-to-follow guide on watching CCTV cameras from anywhere using the Internet. We summarized the three options for security camera remote viewing, and it’s up to you to pick your favorite.

How to remotely access security cameras with FlexiHub

If you’re trying to watch your home or the people in it, you need to have access to the video feed wherever you are. You want to be able to have the security camera connected so it can be viewed directly through your computer or by CCTV remote access.

This is where Remote USB comes in by making it possible to view surveillance cameras over the Internet.

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FlexiHub is specialized software for connecting USB devices over the Internet, which includes remote viewing of security cameras.

Having an edge on similar solutions, FlexiHub offers a built-in feature called Redirection Server, which allows viewing security cameras connected to a different subnetwork.

How to access security cameras with FlexiHub

Here’s how you can use it to connect your security camera to the Internet. Follow these simple steps to access your security camera anywhere you have an Internet connection.

  • 1.
    Register for a FlexiHub account . After that, choose the subscription plan that is best for you and start a free demo period.
    registrer flexihub account
  • 2.
    Connect your security camera to your computer (server). Then install the FlexiHub software on both the server and the remote computer (client) that will be accessing the camera remotely.
    login to view available cameras
  • 3.
    To share the security camera over the Internet, simply start the software on both machines using the same login credentials.
    view surveillance cameras
  • 4.
    Click 'Connect' on the remote computer to access a security camera.
    connect remote security camera
Once connected, you can use any specialized software to access and remote control the security camera
Wonder how FlexiHub looks in action? You can check out this quick video guide:

The software is cross-platform and works as a Windows service or UNIX daemon. This allows you to log into FlexiHub and close the app without losing your connection.

Proprietary apps for remote access to security cameras

remote access security camera app

Another method to obtain remote access to security cameras is using an original software tool by your camera’s maker.

Usually, they provide a specialized app fully compatible with every camera model they sell and don’t omit to release fresh updates or introduce some extra functionality. In all likelihood, one of those features can help you to view a security camera over the Internet.

How to setup remote access to security cameras using port forwarding

access security camera via port forwarding

Here’s an easy-to-understand guide on accessing security cameras remotely using port forwarding. This method works just fine for any IP camera make, and you can apply it to access security cameras outside of your LAN or Wi-Fi network. Plus, it’s pretty good for remote viewing of your NVR footage.

How to remotely view security cameras using the Internet with a method known as port forwarding:
  • 1.
    Get your camera’s IP address.

    When it comes to CCTV remote viewing over the Internet, the first step is always the same: you need to find out the IP address of your security camera.

    More often than not, you can find this piece of info on the status page of the camera application program. If not there, look through the list of DHCP clients currently connected to your router.
  • 2.
    Get your router’s external (WAN) IP Address.

    Follow this link and copy (or write down) your router’s WAN IP address. Mind that you’ll have to do this every time you need remote access to your security cameras, unless your Internet service provider grants you a permanent IP address (a good bet they didn't do that).

    In case you want to know how to view a security camera over the Internet and not ever have to bother checking your router’s external IP, there is one other way. You can make your security camera available for remote viewing through the use of the DDNS service in such a way that the only thing you’ll have to remember is your camera’s hostname.
  • 3.
    Get the port numbers.

    You need to know exactly which port your camera is connected to. Using said number, your router can distinguish the camera from other peripherals and manage its traffic.

    Go to your camera device settings and copy these two numbers: RTMP port and HTTP port. Keep in mind to not use the same port numbers for remote viewing of your other cameras, if you’ve got those.
  • 4.
    Set up port forwarding to your router.

    Use your router’s web interface to configure port forwarding rules.
  • 5.
    Enter an address to a web browser.

At this point, you’ve collected all the data you need. So here’s how to access security cameras using that data - in the browser, enter a URL address that consists of the WAN IP and the port number.

E.g., the WAN IP is 101.02.104.105, and your camera is connected via the HTTP port number 8111, meaning, you’ll need to enter “https://101.02.104.105:8111”.

Finally, you’ll be able to view real-time footage from your CCTV camera online, even if at the moment you are outside your LAN.

Frequently Asked Questions

You can view your security camera feed with a reliable internet connection. A higher-quality connection will deliver more stable viewing and minimize annoying buffering.
Yes, your phone can be used to view a security camera feed using the same method you use on your computer. The security camera feed can be viewed via a web browser on your phone such as Safari, Chrome, or Firefox.

Using a web browser to view an IP-based security camera provides convenience and flexibility. You can centralize multiple camera views through your computer or use your phone to access the feeds as long as you have an internet connection.
Access security cameras remotely
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  • Requirements: Windows, macOS, Linux, Android and Raspberry Pi.
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  • Version 7.0.15389. (20 May, 2025).
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