A wireless outdoor security camera is quick and easy to install. Once it's mounted, you're ready to monitor, without any hassle of wiring.

The camera sends video to a receiver in your home or business wirelessly. The receiver connects to your TV, VCR, or digital video recorder (DVR), letting you view or record the video feed. A wireless IP camera (network camera) can also connect directly your computer network for recording directly to your computer's hard disk.

What to look for in wireless outdoor security cameras

Make sure you plan out the way you will set up your system before you buy. Identify where you will mount your security camera and where you will place the receiver. You should experience no problem with signal loss if they are within 30-40 meters of each other, but this does depend on objects such as thick walls and ceilings.

If the distance between receiver and camera is more than that, you likely will need to extend your transmission range with a wireless card that plugs into a slot in your wireless outdoor security camera. This moves the antenna outside the camera, effectively extending the transmission range. Some wireless cameras come pre-built with powerful antennas for longer distances.

Another important thing to look for is reliability and durability for protection from the weather, from vandals, and from anything else that could damage or disable it. Make sure the housing for your camera is tamper resistant and weather resistant. It needs to be covered enough to shield you camera from the sun and sturdy enough to protect your camera from rain, hail, snow, sand, dust or vandals.

Check also that your wireless outdoor security camera is adequately protected against whatever extremes in temperatures are common in your area. If you live in a hot climate, you likely will need a built-in fan. Conversely, if you live in a cold climate, you'll likely need a built-in heater. You can also purchase camera housing separately that will protect your camera for these environments.

Consider the light levels available for your outdoor security camera. A camera's ability to operate in low light levels is measured by what is called the lux rating. The lower the lux rating, the less light the camera needs in order to transmit a clear picture.

If the light level is especially low, you may want to consider an infrared camera that provides excellent night vision. An infrared security camera is capable of transmitting clear video even in complete darkness.

What will wireless outdoor security cameras do for you?

The system you set up will give you peace of mind that you are deterring vandals and criminals. In doing so, you enhance the safety and security of your home and family or business. When you do that, you can also decrease your insurance payments because you are less likely to make future claims.

The beauty of an outdoor wireless security camera is that you accomplish all these with a system that is easy to install and manage and will benefit you for years to come