CCTV shopping is full of spec sheets that sound impressive but don't answer the one question that matters: will this actually help identify what happened if something goes wrong?
The four things that actually matter
1. Resolution where it counts
You don't need every camera at maximum resolution — you need enough resolution at entry points and cash areas to make a face or number plate identifiable, not just visible as a blur.
2. Storage that survives a power cut
Check how many days of footage the system actually stores before overwriting, and whether the recorder has its own backup battery to keep recording through short outages.
3. Power backup
A CCTV system that goes blind exactly when the power does defeats much of its purpose. A small dedicated UPS for the recorder and cameras is one of the best-value additions you can make.
4. Placement over camera count
Four well-placed cameras covering entry points, the till or safe area, and blind corners usually beat eight cameras scattered without a clear plan.
Wired vs Wi-Fi systems
Wired (analogue or PoE) systems are generally more reliable in Nigeria's power and network conditions, since they don't depend on a stable Wi-Fi signal to keep recording. Wireless systems suit smaller, simpler setups where running cable isn't practical.
✓ Do
- Prioritize camera placement at entry points, tills and blind corners over raw camera count.
- Confirm how many days of footage the recorder stores before older footage is overwritten.
- Add a small UPS for the recorder and cameras.
- Ask the installer to show you how to export footage yourself before they leave.
✕ Don't
- Don't judge a system purely by megapixel count in the sales pitch.
- Don't skip asking about after-installation support and warranty.
- Don't mount cameras somewhere they'll be blocked by signage, trees or direct glare.
- Don't leave the recorder's default password unchanged.
Key takeaways
- Placement at entry points and cash areas matters more than camera count.
- Confirm recording days and backup power before you buy.
- Wired systems tend to hold up better through Nigeria's power conditions.
- Change default passwords the day it's installed.
