Swann is one of the most acclaimed and well-known suppliers of advanced security equipment. The company has managed to succeed in a highly competitive industry due to its unique approach to the market, which includes offering high-quality devices at very affordable prices for all customers, no matter what their budget is.

Swann has also won the CES 2021 Innovation Award for going above and beyond the traditional home security system experience to provide more powerful alternatives for sophisticated users and those with more demanding home security needs. While Swann's devices are priced in the mid to higher range, the company backs everything up with an eye toward innovation and features that make it a worthwhile investment.

So, what distinguishes Swann security devices? Why do they make such a big impact on the security of your home? In case you’re still wondering, we've answered these and a slew of other questions in this post to help you out! In this guide, we’ll answer the following questions:

What is Swann?

Swann is one of the world's leading security brands. They are known to be pioneers of DIY security in the surveillance industry, innovating with cutting-edge technology, to provide the best security surveillance solutions for consumers and businesses alike. For consumers, Swann provides a wide range of high-performance security cameras that are compatible with both smartphones and computers. They also have indoor and outdoor home monitoring systems to keep your family safe 24/7. For business owners, Swann offers reliable video surveillance solutions that prevent theft and vandalism while saving time, money, and resources.

Swann has always been at the forefront of combining performance, quality, and design to create the best in home security. Innovative and constantly evolving, they are committed to producing products that deliver advanced features with a superior level of ease of use. Despite its humble beginnings in the basement of David Swann's family home in Melbourne, Australia, Swann has expanded to include offices in the United States, Canada, Australia, the United Kingdom, Hong Kong, and China, as well as a presence in more than 40 countries across six continents. It is now a part of the Infinova Group, which provides the company with additional production capacity, cutting-edge security and networking research and development, with access to a larger global level. However, Swann's mission is to be the global leader in smart security solutions, caring for people and making every home and business a safe haven!

Who owns Swann?

Swann is owned by Infinova Group, an American security systems provider and one of the world's leading suppliers of advanced CCTV solutions. The company helps to protect communities in more than 130 countries around the world through its comprehensive range of quality products, systems, and services. However, the history of Swann can be traced back from the basement of David Swann's family home in Melbourne, Australia, to offices in the United States, Canada, Australia, the United Kingdom, Hong Kong, and China, as well as a presence in more than 40 countries across six continents.

Why choose Swann?

Whether you are installing a new home security system, or you are looking to upgrade your current system, there are plenty of reasons for choosing Swann security systems. Swann is an Australian company known for their superior quality and reliability across the globe. They have won several awards in the past decade, including being named as CES Innovation Champion of 2021. They have a wide range of products for all budgets and needs, and each one is loaded with technology that makes it easy to install, use and monitor from anywhere. Swann also offers a variety of accessories that can be used with these cameras, like cables, mounts, cases and more.

Moreover, their wireless security cameras work well both indoors and outdoors while giving you peace of mind anytime, anywhere. They have an amazing night vision feature that allows you to see up to 15 feet in the pitch dark. Another thing that makes Swann cameras great is their HD 1080p resolution. This gives you clear and crisp images of anything even in the dark. Over and above that, the Google Assistance it provides can’t be ignored. In short, by choosing Swann Security Systems, you can ensure that your home is protected by a quality product sold by professionals who understand your needs.

How much does Swann installation cost?

Swann has been providing a wide range of security systems for over 30 years. Everything from their cameras and DVRs (digital video recorders) to motion sensors and wireless components is designed for DIY (do-it-yourself). DIY installation is a cost-effective solution for those who are looking to install a security system on their own. The total cost of DIY installation, is the cost of equipment, is usually less than if you were to hire a professional.

As a matter of fact, there are two different types of installation costs for Swann security cameras, depending on the way you want to do it. For instance, if you want to install the camera in a DIY way, then the installation cost would be $0 as you’re doing it yourself. But if you want someone to install it for you, then you should expect to pay the same value as the system for a professional installation!

Which Swann app to use?

Swann's app collection continues to expand, and with each new addition comes an exciting array of possibilities. Choosing the right app can be a difficult task for someone who is new to using Swann products as there are many Swann apps available to use with their products and each app is exclusive to a number of devices. Yet, Swann has introduced a fully integrated security app named “Swann Security” that encompasses wired and wireless devices. Everything including the latest Swann camera, DVRs and NVRs series is controllable via this single app.

However, to install a Swann app that is best suited for your Swann security system you can download the compatibility chart available for free on the official Swann website. Or you can check the model of your recorder or camera before downloading the app you need. But before you do that remember, the model number is usually printed on a white silver sticker located at the bottom of the device.

How much is Swann cloud storage?

Swann NVR and DVR systems preserve footage locally, so you don't have to pay for video storage or be concerned about someone stealing your data. But if you prefer cloud storage Swann's cloud-membership options give up to 60-day rolling storage for a modest monthly fee. Moreover, many Swann cameras now allow you to save your footage to your Dropbox account!

Where are Swann products made?

Swann products are manufactured in China by Hikvision to offer the highest quality at a low price. They have made a strategic decision to manufacture their goods in China from the beginning so that they may keep a strong emphasis on product development and support while simultaneously reaping savings that allow them to achieve an incomparable pricing point. However, Swann's manufacturing facilities are ISO 9001 certified and follow tight protocols to guarantee that all Swann products exceed electrical safety regulations.

Where to buy Swann security cameras?

Swann security cameras are a popular choice for home and business surveillance. But where can you actually buy them? The answer is simple! Swann’s products are available through some of the largest online retailers in the world including: Amazon, Best Buy, Lowes, Sam’s club, Menards, Costco Wholesale, Screwfix, Currys PC World, Bunnings Warehouse, JB Hi-Fi, Harvey Norman, Argos, Laptops Direct, Tool Station, Buy It Direct, Power city and many more!

How to set up a Swann DVR?

You've come to the right place if you own a Swann DVR (digital video recorder) and want to know how to properly connect the wires and set up the DVR. To begin, connect the DVR to the power supply, turn it on, and go through the setup process. The procedure is simple and may be completed in less than 5 minutes. You only need to do one thing. Select the DVR's language and video format (NTSC/PAL). Then select the resolution that you wish to utilise. Afterwards, browse for your local time zone and choose the date and time format. And it's finished. You now have a functioning DVR. After the initial setup is complete, the DVR begins recording video, but if you want greater control over the quality, access the "Recording" menu and adjust the "Encode" option. The basics stay the same; simply modify the parameters and you're done!

How to reset Swann DVR to factory default?

It's a piece of cake to restore a Swann DVR to its factory settings. And we'll show you how to do so here by utilizing the Swann DVR's MAC address. You'll simply need a smartphone, tablet, or computer to do so, and you'll only have to follow a few basic steps. But, before you start, remember that this is a Swann factory reset method for the 4350, 4500, 4900, 8050, and 8075 models. Besides, you'd also have to generate a new password when the DVR is reset. Just keep reading to find out how simple it is. To begin with, there is no universal Swann DVR password; instead, each device has a unique code that is associated with the internal network board. To be honest, it's not a code at all, but rather a serial number that every piece of device that connects to a network uses. Furthermore, you may use this code as a Swann super password. Also, this serial number is the "Swann DVR Mac Address," and it is intended to be used as a reset code for forgotten passwords. So, all that remains is to obtain the code and reset the DVR.

But what if I told you there are three ways to get the code a.k.a the Swann DVR Mac Address? Although Swann technical support tells you how to install their programme to get the Swann Mac address, you won't need it for the first approach. To find the Swann DVR Mac Address using the first method, you'll need to connect a network cable to the DVR's network port, which is similar to the router's. Thereafter, in order to see the devices on the local network, your mobile device must be linked to the WiFi router. Then, just install the "Network Analyzer" software on your mobile device to scan the network and locate your Swann DVR. You may do so by launching the app and selecting the icon on the left side of the screen. There, you must choose "LAN Scan " and check "Swann Mac Address." That's all; you now have your code to enter into the Swann DVR. However, ensure that the code begins with "bc:51:fe," and that you input the code without the colons on your DVR login page before clicking the "OK" button. Following that, the DVR will reboot, and you will be prompted to enter a new password.

This second approach will work if you have a PC or laptop and your Swann DVR is linked to your network! Why? The answer is straightforward: your computer, router, and anything else on your network all has their own Mac Address. So your computer can ask your Swann DVR for its Mac Address, and you can view it with a simple command. Let's see how that goes. To begin, enter CMD into the search box at the bottom left of your laptop's screen. The "Command Prompt" icon will appear; simply click it to bring up the screen. You may also use the key combination "Windows+R" and type run in the two windows that appear. You'll see "Windows Command Prompt" in either case. You may use it to transmit commands to network devices as well as perform technical tasks. Don't sweat; all you have to do is type "arp -a" on the command prompt, and you'll see a slew of various numbers. Simply check for the one that begins with "bc:51:fe." Then, enter the Swann DVR Mac Address or code at the DVR login page and press the "OK" button. As a result, the DVR will reset, and you will be required to create a new password.

The third approach, like the second, requires you to ensure that the cable connection is secure. Then, download Swann's DVR software and locate the Swann DVR Mac Address. Simply double-click the downloaded file to begin the installation. Then, click "Next," select English, and click "Next." Keep the destination in mind and click "Next" once again. Now, click "Install" and wait for the installation to complete. Click "Finish" and provide "Access" to the software when you're finished. After that, launch the software and look for the Swann DVR Mac Address, which will be used as the reset code. It's a simple activity that can be completed in a matter of seconds. The software will automatically seek for your Swann DVR as long as it is properly connected to the network. Plus, the programme displays all of the information; you only need to scroll to the right to find the Swann DVR Mac Address. Finally, simply input the code into the Swann DVR login page, and you're finished. Following that, the DVR will reboot, and you will be prompted to enter a new password. It's that easy!

How to connect a Swann DVR to the internet?

A Swann DVR can be connected to the Internet and accessed remotely using a web browser, software, or smartphone. It's simply a matter of having the proper setup. Connecting your Swann DVR to the Internet begins with connecting the UTP (network) and power cords, followed by assigning the DVR an IP address. You do, however, have two options because your DVR may either automatically receive an IP address from the network or you can manually configure it. The first option is usually set as the default. To use this function, go to Swann's DVR network menu and enable the DHCP feature by clicking on the icon next to it. DHCP stands for Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol, and it implies that if you pick this option, your router may issue an IP address to the DVR. The second and least used option is to configure manually, which is feasible if the DHCP function is disabled. That's all! Your Swann DVR may now access the internet.

How to view Swann CCTV Camera on PC?

As long as your Swann CCTV camera and PC are on the same local network and use the same IP range, they can communicate with each other in a breeze. Therefore, the process to view your Swann CCTV camera on PC is straightforward. Firstly you need to download the software for Windows or MAC by using the “SwannView Link” software available for free on the Swann official website. After that click on the file to install the software. Next, you’ll need to open the software, wait for a while, and check if the software found the devices in the network. Thereafter, you’ll need to choose the device to load the camera on the screen. Following that, the software will find the DVR or NVR automatically. Now your Swann CCTV camera has been connected to the software and you can view the footage seamlessly.

But if the software can’t find the camera automatically, it’s time to add your cameras manually to view them on your PC. For doing so, you’ll need to click the “Add Device” button and fill in the text fields labeled as “Device Name,” “Register Mode,” “UID,” “User Name,” and “Password,” respectively. Over and above that, to improve the communication between the Swann CCTV camera and the software, you can adjust the streaming settings and increase or reduce the resolution, frame rate, and control the bandwidth used by the camera. This can be done if you click on the “Settings” icon, then on the “Encode” button, and lastly when you adjust the parameters as per your needs. That’s it! Now you can view the Swann CCTV camera on your PC.

How to connect Swann CCTV cameras to Google home?

Swann CCTV cameras can be easily linked to Google Home in under 5 minutes. However, in order to use the Google Assistant with Swann cameras, you must have a Swann security camera, a Google account, a device such as Google Home or Google Mini, and a Google Chromecast or a Google Home Hub to play on the TV. The concept is simple: first, link your cameras to the Swann app, and then unite the accounts (Google + Swann). After that, you may ask Google to display the video stream on the device of your choice. However, to do so, you can use your mobile phone and add the Swann CCTV cameras by opening the Google Home app and clicking on the “+” icon. Thereafter, you’ll need to click the “Set up Device”and hit “Have something already set up” option. Next, click “Safe by Swann” and log in to the Swann account. Then choose the location for the cameras and finally click “Done”. Everything should be working now as you’ve both accounts linked and you can use your Google Assistant to give voice commands like “Hey Google, show front door on TV” to show you footage from your Swann cameras. And that’s it!

How to connect Swann security camera to Alexa?

You can effortlessly connect Swann security camera to Alexa and use voice commands to display the video streams from camera to devices. Here we will discuss how you can exactly do that and have an enhanced video surveillance system at your home. To begin, ensure that you have the Swann security app loaded, you have an account there, your device is associated with your account, and that you have the Amazon Alexa app and an account there as well. Lastly, you'll need an Echo Dot, Fire TV, or another Alexa-enabled device. As long as you have all of them, you may go to the following stage, which is to install the Alexa skill that permits communication with the Swann system. Next, in order to use Alexa with your Swann device, it is best to name the cameras in a way that is easy to understand and pronounce. Use special characters and lengthy names sparingly. To begin, launch the Alexa app and pick the menu icon. Click the "Skill and Games'' button and look for the "Alexa Skill." After you've found it, activate it and log in to your account. Thereafter, allow Alexa to discover the device and then examine what Alexa discovered by tapping the "Camera" button. And you'll be able to view all of your cameras there. Now that Alexa is linked to your Swann account, you may use voice commands like "Alexa, show front door," and the device will display the camera video feed. That's all there is to set up; now you can enjoy your Swann cameras functioning with Alexa.

How to set Swann CCTV cameras to record all the time?

Swann cameras can be set to record all the time but for doing so, you’d need to navigate to the “Main Menu” first and then to the “Record” menu. Under the "Record" menu, you should see the "Record Setup" and "Motion Setup" options. Go to the "Record Setup Menu," then to the "Record Mode" option. Set it to "Schedule," and another "Schedule" button should appear next to it; click that button to go to the next screen. Then, on the "Record Schedule" page, ensure that the "CH" option (top left) is set to "All." Next, use your mouse to click on the red box next to "Alarm," or press the "Select" button if you're using the remote/front panel buttons. Inside the box, a checkmark should appear. After that, using a mouse, navigate to the boxes for, say, "Sunday." You may left-click on the leftmost box, hold the button down, and then drag the mouse all the way to the rightmost box.

Sunday's whole row of boxes should now be highlighted. Alternatively, you can click on each of the boxes one by one with the remote's "Select" button or the front panel buttons. Go down to the bottom, once the full row of boxes has been coloured red. The line should by default state "Copy from SUN to All." When you click the "Copy" button to the right, the rest of the boxes should turn red. After that, click "Apply" to save and "Exit" to return to the previous screen. Back on the "Record Setup" menu, scroll down to "Copy to" and choose "All," then click the "Copy" button and hit "OK." Finally, press "Apply" to preserve the settings, and your camera is now ready to record nonstop!

How to install Swann security cameras at home?

Once you've identified the great spots for your Swann security cameras, you're ready to install them! Screw them into place or glue them to the wall. Here's how to go about it. A circular template for use as a screw guide is included in the box. Place this on the surface on which you intend to place your Swann security camera. Then, on wood surfaces, screw in with only a quarter of the screws visible. Drill two 6mm holes in the template for brick or masonry, then tap in the wall anchors supplied in each set, leaving a fourth of each screw exposed. However, if you choose not to drill holes in the wall, use the adhesive strips that come with the camera. Set it on the back of the camera, apply pressure for 30 seconds, then remove the strip and place it on your allocated surface. Align the base with the mounting screws and slide it down to lock it in place. Once the camera is installed, you may view it through the app and configure it to your liking. It's that easy!