How to install network camera on Windows 10

On Windows 10, you have been able to install network cameras for a long time, but it has not been an easy process. However, this has changed with the addition of native support for these types of cameras with version 20H1, and with version 21H2, the installation process becomes even easier.

Unlike USB cameras, network cameras are devices that can transmit data during the local area network (LAN) using a TCP/IP (Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol) configuration, and they are usually the preferred choice for security and surveillance purposes.

Windows 10 includes support for discovery, pairing, configure, and stream TCP/IP-enabled for major ONVIF Profile S compliant camera brands. As you connect new network cameras, the stream can be easily routed through the existing camera APIs built-in the operating system, making it possible to capture images, stream, or record videos using the default Camera app or third-party solutions.

In this guide, you will learn the steps to connect a network on Windows 10.

How to install network camera on Windows 10 21H1 and earlier

To add a network camera to Windows 10, use these steps:

1. Open Settings on Windows 10.

2. Click on Devices.

3. Click the Add Bluetooth & other devices option.

   

   Windows 10 add network camera option

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4. Select the Everything else option.

   

   Everything else option

5. Select the network camera.

Once you complete the steps, the camera will be set up, and you can then capture images, stream, or record videos using the Windows 10 Camera app or another third-party application.

How to install network camera on Windows 10 21H2 and higher

To add a camera connected to a network on version 21H2 or higher, use these steps:

1. Open Settings.

2. Click on Devices.

3. Click on Cameras.

4. Click the Add a network camera option.

   

   Windows 10 21H2 add network camera

5. Select the camera from the list to add it to Windows 10.

   

   Select IP camera to install

After you complete the steps, the network camera will be added to the Windows 10 installation. Then you can use the built-in Camera app or third-party program to record, stream, or capture images from the camera.

If the settings page is not available, it is because you are not using the version that supports these settings. The Cameras page is available starting with build 21354 and higher releases.