PoE security cameras connected via Ethernet port 1, using IP for communication.
PoE security cameras connected via Ethernet port 1, using IP for communication.
I've searched online for about eight hours trying to set up two IP POE security cameras on a single Ethernet port. I managed one camera with a fixed IP address and used ISpy to manage it. Now I want both cameras, but I lack a router and only have a weak hotspot. Would using a POE switch be a better option? I could connect the two cameras to the switch, link the switch to my desktop, and adjust both IP addresses so ISpy or another tool can view them together.
This setup won't function without a router to manage your cameras' IP addresses and routing tasks. If you're relying on a portable hotspot, the process becomes more complex. The easiest approach is to disconnect the cameras from the internet entirely, placing them on a separate network. Consider purchasing a budget router for the cameras, a PoE switch (unless the cameras include PoE injectors) and some Ethernet cables. Link the router to power, connect the switch to the router (or use PoE injectors if available), and then link the cameras to the switch. If you must keep them on the same network, you'll need to route the mobile hotspot through a proper router first. Before buying cameras, check out the Ubiquiti UniFi Video line; their standard G3 camera includes a PoE injector, making it easy to assemble with a switch and patch cables. For a PoE switch, the Ubiquiti UniFi Switch 8-60W is recommended as it supports up to four PoE devices.
Well Yeah, I don't want them connected to the internet at all. I don't want my hotspot to be used. Just a one way link to my computer so I can record the footage 24//7. As I said I already figured out how to do it for one camera by simply plugging it to my Ethernet port and giving it a static IP now I need to learn how to do TWO. Main reason why I said either a switch or simple a USB to ether adapter. However yeah I might just be forced to pay extra for a router in the end along with a POE switch.
You need to assign unique static IP addresses to each device. Since you have only one Ethernet adapter, you’ll have to configure both your desktop and the switch with separate IPs. Plugging in the switch won’t automatically create multiple adapters—each port must be set individually. Refer to a setup guide or example configuration to follow these steps.
Can't lock every camera to a fixed IP? (I'd configure one first, then switch it to something other than the default.) Then set the second one to prevent default IP conflicts. Otherwise, you might need a router to automatically assign IPs via DHCP if manual setup isn't possible. It really depends on the cameras you have. I've noticed different capabilities.
When you connect the switch, it won't provide several adapters. You're attempting to set up a network, but missing a key element: a router. A possible solution is to purchase a USB to Ethernet adapter, as suggested. I wouldn't invest in a PCIe card since you won't require its high speed and it would waste PCIe slots on your system. Assign each camera to a separate subnet—adjust the IP address for each, keeping the exact number consistent. Just ensure your software supports routing across different subnets. Trying to run multiple cameras on the same network by directly connecting them through the switch and using a Realtek NIC is not effective; Windows isn't designed for routing tasks. If you attempt this without proper networking hardware, it will cause issues. For a better setup, consider using a separate hotspot with Ethernet ports, ensuring your current device has them. This way, all cameras can connect seamlessly via wired or wireless means, and your network will function smoothly without exceeding data limits.
This method doesn't function because you're modifying the network adapter settings instead of adjusting the cameras, even if a switch is present. The NIC will receive a uniform IP address. Changing configurations in the 'Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) Properties' section alters the computer's IP within the device network (switch and cameras). You aren't controlling the cameras directly, as there isn't a router managing their addresses. A router would be necessary to oversee IP assignments for other devices. Please look for a suitable solution tailored to your situation.
I received everything from Amazon today. Two cameras—one from Reolink and another from SV3C—along with two 100ft flat cat6 cables and a PoE switch from Amcrest. I placed them where I wanted, though setting up the cameras turned out to be tricky. At least it was an enjoyable and educational process. I also bought a router ahead of time in case things didn’t go perfectly, which proved useful. Thanks to everyone for your help!