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Should I use wired or wireless security cameras?

For permanent installations, wired PoE (Power over Ethernet) cameras are recommended — they're the most reliable, don't need battery changes or Wi-Fi, and can record 24/7. Wireless cameras (battery/solar) are good for DIY, rental properties or where running cables isn't possible, but they're motion-activated only and need battery maintenance. For a new build, plan wired camera conduit during construction.

What is PoE (Power over Ethernet) and why is it recommended?

PoE (Power over Ethernet) uses a single Cat6 cable to provide both power and data to a security camera. This means you only need to run one cable per camera, and you don't need a power point nearby. PoE cameras are the most reliable type — they run 24/7, don't need battery changes, and connect directly to a network video recorder (NVR). For a new build, run Cat6 conduit to each camera position.

How much does security camera wiring cost during the build?

Running Cat6 conduit to each camera position during the build costs $100–$250 per camera. This includes the conduit from the NVR location to the camera mounting point. The cameras themselves ($200–$500 each) and the NVR ($300–$800) can be purchased and installed after handover. Retrofitting cable through finished walls and eaves costs $200–$500+ per camera.

Where should I position security cameras?

Position cameras at all accessible entry points: the front entrance (video doorbell or camera), front of garage, side and rear entries, the alfresco/backyard, and any side gates. Cameras should be mounted high enough to avoid tampering (2.5m+) but low enough to capture faces. Ensure cameras cover high-traffic areas and don't have blind spots between them.

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Lighting, Electrical & Power

Security Camera Wiring Guide: What to Plan During Your Build

How to prepare your new home for security cameras — PoE cabling, camera types, positioning, NVR location and costs.

6 min read·Compare My Build — Independent Resource· Updated July 2026

Cost estimates only: Any building or upgrade figures in this guide are indicative, not fixed prices or quotes. Costs and inclusions vary by project, supplier, location and time. Confirm current written prices and specifications directly with your builder, suppliers and relevant trades.

Key Takeaways

For permanent security, wired PoE cameras are the most reliable — no batteries, no Wi-Fi dependency, 24/7 recording
Plan Cat6 conduit to each camera position during the build — $100–$250 per camera vs $200–$500+ to retrofit
Position cameras at all accessible entry points — front, side, rear, garage, alfresco, side gates
Plan an NVR (network video recorder) location in a secure, ventilated cupboard or enclosure
Wireless cameras can be added later, but wired cameras are more reliable for permanent security

Why Plan Security Camera Wiring During the Build

Security cameras provide peace of mind, deter break-ins and capture evidence if an incident occurs. While wireless cameras can be added after handover, wired PoE (Power over Ethernet) cameras are more reliable for permanent security. Planning camera wiring during the build — Cat6 conduit to each camera position — costs $100–$250 per camera. Retrofitting cable through finished walls, eaves and ceilings costs $200–$500+ per camera.

Camera Types Compared

Security Camera Types — Pros, Cons & Costs

Type	Pros	Cons	Cost
Wired PoE (Power over Ethernet)	Most reliable; single cable for power+data; no batteries; 24/7 recording	Requires cabling to each camera; professional installation	$200–$500 per camera (supply + install)
Wireless Wi-Fi (plug-in power)	Easy to install; flexible positioning; no data cabling	Needs power point nearby; Wi-Fi reliability; potential interference	$150–$400 per camera (supply + install)
Wireless battery/solar	No wiring at all; easy DIY; flexible placement	Battery needs recharging; solar needs sunlight; limited recording (motion-activated only)	$200–$600 per camera (supply)
Wired analogue (coaxial)	Reliable; older but proven technology	Being phased out; lower resolution than IP cameras; separate power cable	$150–$350 per camera (supply + install)

Tip

For a new build, plan Cat6 conduit to each camera position during construction. This enables you to install reliable PoE cameras at any time without running visible cables through finished walls and eaves. The cameras and NVR can be purchased and installed after handover — the conduit is the provision that matters during the build.

Camera Positioning

Recommended Camera Positions

Location	Camera Type	Purpose
Front entrance/doorbell	Video doorbell or camera	Package theft, visitor identification, front door security
Front of garage	Wide-angle camera	Vehicle security; driveway monitoring
Side/rear of house	Camera at each accessible entry	Side and rear access points are common break-in targets
Alfresco/backyard	Wide-angle camera	Outdoor area monitoring; backyard security
Side gate	Camera at gate	Detects access via side gate

NVR / DVR Location

A network video recorder (NVR) records and stores footage from all cameras. Plan the NVR location during the build:

Secure location — a locked cupboard or enclosure, so the NVR can't be easily stolen
Ventilated — NVRs generate heat; ensure adequate ventilation to prevent overheating
Near the switchboard and network hub — simplifies cabling and power
Accessible — you'll need to access the NVR to review footage and manage settings
Near a monitor (optional) — some NVRs connect to a TV or monitor for live viewing

What to Plan During the Build

Cat6 conduit from the NVR location to each camera position (eaves, entry points, garage)
A weatherproof conduit exit point at each camera location
A dedicated power point at the NVR location (for the NVR and network switch)
Cat6 data connection from the NVR to your router/network hub
A secure, ventilated cupboard or enclosure for the NVR
Consider a video doorbell power supply at the front door

Watch Out

If you're planning a video doorbell (Ring, Nest, etc.), plan a power supply at the front door during the build. Video doorbells need a transformer (typically 8–24V AC) connected to the doorbell circuit. Retrofitting a power supply requires accessing the doorbell circuit through finished walls — much more expensive than installing during the build.

Smart Home Wiring Guide

Security cameras are part of a complete smart home — see the full wiring guide.

Read the Guide

Frequently Asked Questions

All costs are real-world examples only. Actual costs vary by camera brand, installation complexity and number of cameras. Always confirm security camera provisions and pricing at your electrical appointment.