How to Stream an IP Camera With a Dynamic Address
You can access Internet protocol (IP) cameras from any online computer outside of the local network by using the IP address assigned to the camera. In most cases, the camera is assigned a static IP, which does not change. IP cameras can also be set up to use a dynamic IP through the use of DHCP, or the dynamic host control protocol. The use of DHCP is uncommon, however, since the use of dynamic IP addresses can make the camera go offline when the IP address changes. Configuring the IP camera specifically to use a dynamic IP is the only way to maintain the connection despite the lack of a static IP address.
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Instructions
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Connect the IP camera to your network, and position it in the area that you would like to monitor. Find a location with a nearby power source, since even a wireless IP camera needs to be connected to an outlet. Use an Ethernet cable to connect a wired camera to the network.
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Install the camera's software. Insert the CD-ROM that came with the camera into the CD drive of a PC or laptop connected to the network. Follow the software program prompts to complete the installation. Once the installation is complete, restart the computer.
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Configure the camera to accept a dynamic IP address. Once the computer has finished rebooting, open the camera software once more, and click on "IP Configuration." Select the option to obtain an IP address by DHCP and click on "OK" to save the changes.
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Sign up for a URL service to link your camera to a uniform resource locator (URL) or web address. Without a static IP, it is impossible to reach the camera and maintain the stream unless the camera is assigned a Web address by one of these services. MyDDNS, No IP and DynDNS are all examples of dynamic host services.
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Tips & Warnings
Use password protection to ensure privacy for your IP camera.
References
Resources
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