Best Free IP Camera Software For Windows/Mac/iPhone/Android

“How can I record from an IP camera for free?” “What is the best free IP camera software?”

Security cameras are an essential part of any establishment. Businesses, restaurants, and other buildings need them—especially as crimes increase in many neighborhoods. Even homes could use these beneficial cameras, but how does one manage them effectively even without being on-site every single moment?

The solution is IP cameras. These affordable cameras have the perfect surveillance technology, and they can also be managed through software that senses strangers entering your premises. Their recording capabilities are top-notch, but you also need to choose the right software for your needs.

How Do You Pick the Best Security Camera Software?

In most cases, the best software is simply the software that works with your cameras, and that offers all the functions you need. Compatibility is the first concern, but you also want it to work well with your device. For example, if your cameras have a zoom function, but your software doesn’t allow zooming, then that piece of software is not the best one for you.

For example, if you are using Linux, then you want Linux security camera software. And, some people insist that their software allows them to monitor their cameras from their Smartphones. The great thing about free security camera software is that you can test it out first without the risk of losing your money.

Best Free IP Camera Software List & 2022 Recommended

You don’t need to empty your bank account to download great IP camera software. Here is the best free IP camera software list on the market.

Our Rank Security Camera Software Company Free Offer Review
1. ContaCam Free. Is easy to use and offers great features but some customers have reported problems when pairing with IP cameras.
2. Cam Wizard Free. Is easy to set up but experiences regular crashes and is not good in low light.
3. iSentry Free. Features sensitive motion detection but bad video quality.
4. IP Camera Viewer by Deskshare Free. Supports IP and USB cameras but does not feature recording capabilities or motion detection.
5. Genius Vision Free. Works well with an array of cameras but does not offer troubleshooting assistance.
6. Foscam Free. Features good image quality but lacks integration capabilities.
7. OnCue Free. Is only available on Mac devices.
8. iSpy Connect Free trial. Works with a wide range of cameras but the free version offers limited features and can be difficult to set up.
9. Ivideon Free. Supports an unlimited number of cameras and is compatible with a range of operating systems. Does not offer free shipping.
10. SmartViewer Free. Is backed by a well-established company.
11. ZoneMinder Free. Features limited support for various languages and documentation.
12. Camera Viewer Pro Free. Is easy to install and use and supports multiple USB webcams.
13. My Webcam Broadcaster Free. Allows users to remotely view their camera feed but the free version only allows 30 minutes of viewing a month.

Free IP Camera Software vs Third-Party Software vs Self-Made App

You can choose a free IP camera software, third-party software, or a self-made application.

1. Free IP Camera Software

The free IP camera software option gives you variety without having to spend. They allow you to view the cameras’ output remotely. Usually, these platforms make use of desktop clients. They contain basic security features and have enough functionalities for most people.

However, many of them lack a mobile application. Some also have many advertisements bundled because of them being a “free” software. These minor annoyances can quickly turn into something that devoids the user experience.

You want software that caters to your needs but does not sacrifice the experience. Advertisements can also introduce unwanted software and cookies through clicks, leaving you at risk of vulnerabilities.

2. Third-Party Software

There are also third-party options. This software can be purchased with a small one-time fee or a recurring subscription. Off the bat, they seem very promising. However, you will be very limited with the features since most options are just ad-free versions of other programs.

There are also instances when the application no longer supports your desktop or mobile phone, especially if they are sporting outdated firmware. This limitation is not ideal if you have hangups against updates.

It is best to look at all the options you have before purchasing third-party software.

3. Self-Made App: ZOSI Smart APP

A self-made application allows you to tune the settings of your camera to your liking. This type of application also allows you to look at different selected cameras, as well as record videos at scheduled time periods.

With a mobile application ready, you can also access the IP cameras remotely. That way, you do not need to turn your desktop PC or laptop on.

One such app is ZOSI, a smart application designed to work on both desktops and smartphones. Supporting group play, two-way audio, and multiple users, there is no shortage of features on this robust client.

ZOSI is also supported by both macOS and Windows, which means you do not have to purchase different clients to view your IP cameras on different devices. Everything can be seen on one application.

You can also share the client with five users, so the entire family (or business team) can look at cameras whenever they wish. And with push notifications enabled, you never have to miss any important matters once you put them in the correct settings.

The user interface is also optimized and well-designed. With an aesthetically pleasing layout, the ZOSI smart app has everything you want in the free IP camera software.

Below is the high-quality video you can view from the ZOSI free IP camera software.

 

Important Note: ZOSI free IP camera software is compatible with Windows, Mac, iPhone and Android devices, like:

  • Windows 10, Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows XP
  • MacBook, MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, iMac, iMac Pro, Mac Pro, Mac Mini
  • iPhone X, iPhone 8 Plus, iPhone 8, iPhone 7, iPhone 7 Plus, iPhone 6S Plus, iPhone 6S, iPhone SE, iPhone 6 Plus, iPhone 6
  • Samsung Galaxy S9+, Google Pixel 2 XL, Google Pixel 2, Samsung Galaxy Note 8, Samsung Galaxy S8, Samsung Galaxy S8 Plus, Huawei P20 Pro, LG V30+

These are the surveillance cameras using free software as seen in the video:

Smart 3MP Super HD WiFi Security Camera - C190

  • 2.4/5 GHz WiFi
  • Light & Siren Alarm
  • Color Night Vision
  • AI Human Detection
  • 2-Way Audio

C296 - Pan Tilt IP Security Cameras

  • 4K Ultra HD/5MP Super HD
  • Starlight Color Night Vision
  • Pan & Tilt
  • PoE/WiFi Connection
  • Light & Siren Alarm
  • Upgraded AI-Powered Detection
  • 2-Way Audio

C1 - Wire-Free Spotlight Camera - IPC-696

  • Wifi Connection
  • Motion Activated Light & Siren Alarm
  • Rechargeable Battery Powered
  • AI Human Detection
  • Two Way AudioAI Human Detection
  • Proactive Sound & Siren Alarm
  • 100ft Color Night Vision

Free IP Camera Software Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I connect the IP camera directly to the PC?

A primary local network can consist of one or more of the following components: An IP network camera connected to your desktop computer’s network port through a network cable. An IP camera linked to a router is linked to a desktop or laptop computer though not the internet.

Q2: Which is a better CCTV or IP camera?

Compared to older CCTV systems, IP cameras usually have better image quality, advanced recording features, and the ability to connect a more significant number of cameras to the system. Instead of a physical DVR, videos are stored digitally on a network video recorder or NVR.

Q3: Can IP Cameras Be Hacked?

IP security camera software doesn’t support SSL/TLS encryption, leaving video surveillance footage from IP cameras vulnerable to hackers. WiFi cam hacking is also caused by users’ lack of awareness of security between cameras and routers. To find the answers to all these questions about security cameras have been hacked, please kindly read through this post.

Conclusion

As you can tell by this article, getting good security camera software is difficult because there is so much to choose from. Plus, installing is often an issue, as are companies trying to nag-free users into paying. There is also the issue of connecting cameras and the problem with tagged-on viruses and bloatware.

Nevertheless, there is plenty to try without having to pay, so that is a positive. What do you think?