What Is CCTV? Closed-Circuit Television Explained
CCTV stands for Closed-Circuit Television – a system that lets you monitor and record activity in a specific area using connected cameras. It’s used everywhere: homes, stores, offices, warehouses, and public spaces.
Unlike regular broadcast TV, CCTV sends video only to a private set of screens or devices. It’s a go-to solution for safety, security, and peace of mind.
On this page, you’ll get a quick overview of what CCTV is and how it works – plus links to the 8 core parts that make up a modern CCTV system.
Explore the Key Elements of CCTV
CCTV System Components
Understand the essential parts: from cameras to recorders that make up a complete CCTV system.
Explore CCTV System Components
CCTV Camera Types
Learn the differences between dome, bullet, PTZ, turret, and other cameras, and how to choose the right one for your needs.
Discover CCTV Camera Types
CCTV Signal Transmission
Find out how video travels from cameras to recorders, monitors, and cloud platforms using coaxial, IP, wireless, and fiber technologies.
Understand CCTV Signal Transmission
CCTV Video Storage
Explore how footage is stored using DVRs, NVRs, SD cards, and cloud systems, and what affects retention and reliability.
Learn About CCTV Video Storage
CCTV Video Resolution
See how resolution impacts clarity, storage, and system performance – and how to choose the right quality for your setup.
Understand CCTV Video Resolution
CCTV Power Supply
Learn About CCTV Power Supply
CCTV Live Monitoring
Understand how live feeds are monitored in real-time to catch incidents as they happen, locally or remotely.
Explore CCTV Live Monitoring
CCTV Control Interfaces
Find out how users interact with their CCTV systems – switching cameras, reviewing footage, and managing alerts through intuitive control tools.
Discover CCTV Control Interfaces
Wrapping It Up
CCTV systems are made up of smart, connected parts that all work together to keep spaces safe and secure.
When you understand each part, you’re better equipped to choose the right system – or get the most out of the one you have.
