On Windows 10, you have been able to install network cameras for a long time, but it has not been an easy process. However, this has changed with the native support for network cameras with version 20H1, but with version 21H2, the installation becomes more effortless.
Unlike USB cameras, network cameras are devices that stream the data through the local area network (LAN) using a TCP/IP (Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol) configuration. Usually the preferred choice for security and surveillance purposes.
Windows 10 supports discovery, pairing, configuring, and stream TCP/IP-enabled for major ONVIF Profile S compliant camera brands. As you connect new network cameras, the stream can be easily routed through the existing camera APIs, making it possible to capture images, stream, or record videos using the default Camera app or third-party solutions.
This guide will teach you the steps to connect a network on Windows 10.
- Install network camera on Windows 10 21H2 and higher
- Install network camera on Windows 10 21H1 and earlier
Install network camera on Windows 10 21H2 and higher
To add a camera connected to a network on version 21H2 or higher, use these steps:
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Open Settings.
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Click on Devices.
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Click on Cameras.
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Click the Add a network camera option.
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Select the camera from the list to add it to Windows 10.
After you complete the steps, the network camera will install on Windows 10. Then you can use the built-in Camera app or third-party program to record, stream, or capture images from the camera.
Install network camera on Windows 10 21H1 and earlier
To add a network camera to Windows 10, use these steps:
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Open Settings on Windows 10.
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Click on Devices.
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Click the Add Bluetooth & other devices option.
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Select the Everything else option.
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Select the network camera.
Once you complete the steps, the camera will be set up, and you can then capture images, stream, or record videos using the Windows 10 Camera app or another third-party application.
Mauro Huculak is a Windows expert and the Editor-in-Chief who started Pureinfotech in 2010 as an independent online publication. He is also been a Windows Central contributor for nearly a decade. Mauro has over 12 years of experience writing comprehensive guides and creating professional videos about Windows, software, and related technologies, including Android and Linux. Before becoming a technology writer, he was an IT administrator for seven years. In total, Mauro has over 20 years of combined experience in technology. Throughout his career, he achieved different professional certifications from Microsoft (MSCA), Cisco (CCNP), VMware (VCP), and CompTIA (A+ and Network+), and he has been recognized as a Microsoft MVP for many years. You can follow him on X (Twitter), YouTube, LinkedIn and About.me.