Why WiFi Cameras?
WiFi IP cameras are the easiest way to get started. No Ethernet cables to run, no PoE switch to buy. Plug the camera into power, connect it to your WiFi network, and you’re ready to go.
The trade-off is that WiFi can be less reliable than a wired connection — but for most homes with decent WiFi coverage, it works perfectly well.
What You Need
- A WiFi IP camera with RTSP and ONVIF support (see tested cameras)
- Your existing WiFi network (2.4GHz recommended for cameras)
- A power outlet near where you want to mount the camera
- An iPhone or iPad with LocalNanny installed
How It Connects
Both the camera and your iPhone connect to the same router over WiFi. The video stream travels directly between them on your local network — it never goes to the internet.
Step-by-Step Setup
1. Plug In the Camera
Place the camera where you want it and connect it to a power outlet. Most WiFi cameras come with a USB or barrel-jack power adapter.
2. Connect the Camera to WiFi
Most WiFi cameras require initial setup through the manufacturer’s app:
- Download the camera brand’s app (e.g., Amcrest View, Reolink)
- Follow the in-app setup to connect the camera to your WiFi network
- Once connected, you can close the manufacturer’s app — you won’t need it again
Tip: Connect the camera to your 2.4GHz network, not 5GHz. The 2.4GHz band has better range and wall penetration, which is important for cameras that may be far from your router.
3. Open LocalNanny
Open LocalNanny on your iPhone. Tap Add Camera and LocalNanny will automatically discover your camera using ONVIF. Select it, enter the camera’s credentials, and you’re streaming.
Note: Some cameras (such as Reolink) have RTSP disabled by default. If LocalNanny can’t connect to your camera’s stream, check your camera’s app or web interface and make sure RTSP is enabled.
4. Check Signal Strength
After setup, watch the stream for a minute. If you see stuttering or buffering:
- Move the camera closer to your router if possible
- Switch to 2.4GHz if you’re on 5GHz
- Consider a WiFi extender or mesh system if the camera is far from your router
- Reduce the camera’s stream resolution in its settings to lower bandwidth requirements
- Learn about UDP vs TCP streaming — WiFi cameras often benefit from TCP transport, which LocalNanny selects automatically
WiFi Tips for Reliable Streaming
- 2.4GHz vs 5GHz: Use 2.4GHz for cameras. It has longer range and better wall penetration. 5GHz is faster but drops off quickly with distance.
- Channel congestion: If you live in an apartment, your WiFi channels may be crowded. Your router’s auto-channel selection usually handles this, but you can manually pick a less congested channel.
- Camera placement: Avoid putting cameras behind thick walls, metal surfaces, or near microwaves, which can interfere with WiFi signals.
- Bandwidth: A single camera stream uses about 2-4 Mbps on your local network. Modern routers handle this easily, even with other devices connected.
WiFi vs PoE: Which Should You Choose?
| WiFi | PoE | |
|---|---|---|
| Installation | Easy — no cables | Requires running Ethernet cable |
| Reliability | Good with strong WiFi | Excellent — wired connection |
| Placement | Needs power outlet nearby | Anywhere you can run a cable |
| Cost | Lower — no switch needed | Slightly higher — need PoE switch |
| Best for | Quick setup, renters | Permanent install, maximum reliability |
For most parents, WiFi cameras work great. If you want the most reliable setup or plan to keep the camera permanently, consider PoE cameras instead.
Recommended WiFi Cameras
Check our compatible cameras page for tested WiFi cameras with RTSP and ONVIF support.
Next Step
Once your camera is connected, follow the LocalNanny setup guide to start monitoring.