Blue Iris is a highly popular video surveillance software used by many individuals and businesses to monitor their properties. Developed by Perspective Software, it offers a range of advanced features and capabilities that make it a top choice for those seeking comprehensive security solutions. With its user-friendly interface and ability to integrate with a wide range of cameras, Blue Iris has become a favorite among security professionals and hobbyists alike.
In this article, we will explore the various features and benefits of Blue Iris, as well as its impact on the world of video surveillance.
Contents
Blue Iris Security Camera Knowledge Base
1. What Is a Blue Iris IP Camera
Blue Iris is a popular video surveillance software that is designed to help users capture, record, and manage security camera footage from multiple cameras. The software is developed by Perspective Software and is widely used for home security, business surveillance, and other applications where video monitoring is necessary.
2. Blue Iris Supported Camera List & Compatibility
One of the key features of Blue Iris is its compatibility with a wide range of camera models. The software supports over 3,000 different camera models, including those from major brands such as ZOSI, Amcrest, Axis, Hikvision, and Dahua. This makes it easy for users to integrate their existing cameras into the Blue Iris system and start monitoring their premises right away.
However, it’s important to note that while Blue Iris engineers test IP cameras to ensure they are compliant with the software, they may not test every function of a camera. This means that some features of your camera may not work perfectly with Blue Iris. For instance, certain ZOSI cameras might have limited functionality when used with Blue Iris, which can impact your overall experience.
To fully enjoy the features of your ZOSI camera, it is recommended to use the ZOSI Smart App, which is specifically designed to work seamlessly with ZOSI cameras, offering full compatibility and a more robust set of features.
3. Blue Iris IP Camera Compatibility: What Features You’ll Get
Another important feature of Blue Iris is its robust set of functionalities. The software provides users with a range of tools to help them manage their cameras and footage. These include motion detection, which can be set up to trigger recording and alerts when movement is detected in a specified area, as well as remote access, which allows users to view their camera feeds from anywhere in the world using a web browser or mobile app.
In addition, Blue Iris offers users the ability to customize their recording settings to suit their needs. Users can choose to record continuously or only when motion is detected, and can also set up schedules for when recordings should start and stop. The software also provides users with the ability to configure alerts to be sent via email, SMS, or push notification when motion is detected or other events occur.
However, due to software limitations and differences in security camera manufacturers, certain camera functions may not be available when using Blue Iris. For example, ZOSI cameras may not have full PTZ functionality or other advanced features when used with Blue Iris. To avoid such limitations, it is recommended to use the ZOSI Smart App, which provides full support for all ZOSI camera features, ensuring a better and more reliable user experience.
4. Blue Iris License & Tech Support Fees: How Much You Need to Pay
While Blue Iris is a powerful tool for video surveillance, it does come at a cost. The software is not free and requires a one-time payment to use. However, the pricing is reasonable and users can purchase a single license for use on up to 64 cameras.
Blue Iris Support Plan Details & Prices
| Support Plans & Features | Basic | Extended | Priority |
| Current Version Updates | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Major Version Upgrade Protection | 30 Days | Yes | Yes |
| Email Support | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Prioritized Email Support | — | Yes | Yes |
| Highest Priority Email Support | — | — | Yes |
| Phone Support (Limited & By Appointment) | — | — | Yes |
| Remote Desktop Support (Limited & By Appointment) | — | — | Yes |
| Price | Free | $29.95 | $59.95 |
| Duration | 1 Year | 1 Year | 1 Year |
Note: The information in the chart above is quoted from Blue Iris official website.
Taking into account the expenses associated with utilizing the Blue Iris network camera software, opting for the manufacturer’s customized software, such as the ZOSI Smart App, for your security camera would be a more favorable option. With the customized software, you can enjoy the benefit of free usage and technical assistance without any additional charges while also eliminating any compatibility concerns.
On the other hand, using Blue Iris software may result in CPU issues, which we will elaborate on in Part 4. This factor makes it even more critical to choose the customized client and app instead of Blue Iris IP security camera software.
Therefore, you can select video cameras that are compatible with both Blue Iris app/client and the customized software to ensure a seamless experience.
Blue Iris IP Camera Setup: Step-by-Step Guide
With this detailed guide, you can make your Blue Iris network IP camera configuration or installation like a breeze.
Here let’s show you the step-by-step guide on adding cameras to Blue Iris.
Add security cameras to Blue Iris.
1) Download and launch Blue Iris on your PC or Mac.
2) Click “+” button at the top right of the Blue Iris software, or right click and select Add new camera to add security camera to Blue Iris.
3) Input the camera name and choose Network IP as the connection type. Check Enable audio and Enable motion detector in the Options menu. Click OK to continue.
4) Please enter the correct User Name and Password. Click Find/inspect… button to search the camera in LAN.
In the current inferface, you are gonna need to do several setup steps:
- Select the Make as XXX.
- Change the Discovery/.. ort into 80 or 8080.
- Click OK to finish adding the camera to Blue Iris.
If you use ZOSI PTZ security cameras, such as C296, you may not be able to use the full PTZ functionality in Blue Iris. To unlock the full potential of your ZOSI camera, consider using the ZOSI Smart App, which offers better compatibility and more features.
Blue Iris IP Cameras Troubleshooting & Hottest FAQs
Blue Iris is a popular IP camera software for Windows that allows users to view, record, and manage multiple IP cameras. Here are some troubleshooting tips and FAQs to help you get the most out of your Blue Iris setup:
- “No signal” error message: This can occur if the camera is not properly connected to the network or if there is a problem with the camera itself. Check the camera’s network settings and ensure it is connected to the same network as your computer running Blue Iris. You can also try restarting the camera or resetting its settings to default.
- Poor image quality: If you’re experiencing low-quality images or video, try adjusting the camera’s resolution or bit rate settings. You may also want to check the camera’s focus and lighting conditions.
- Camera disconnecting frequently: If your camera keeps disconnecting, check the network connection and ensure that the camera is receiving power. You may also want to update the camera’s firmware to the latest version.
- Blue Iris crashing or freezing: If Blue Iris is crashing or freezing, check that your computer meets the minimum system requirements for the software. You can also try updating your graphics card drivers or adjusting the software’s settings to reduce CPU usage.
- Can Blue Iris be used with non-IP cameras?: Blue Iris is designed for use with IP cameras, but it can also work with some analog cameras if you have a video encoder that can convert the analog signal to an IP signal.
- How many cameras can Blue Iris support?: Blue Iris can support up to 64 cameras.
- Can I access Blue Iris remotely?: Yes, Blue Iris supports remote access via a web browser or mobile app.
- Can Blue Iris record audio?: Yes, Blue Iris can record audio if your camera supports it.
- What video formats does Blue Iris support?: Blue Iris supports H.264, MPEG4, and MJPEG video formats.
- How can I optimize Blue Iris performance?: To optimize Blue Iris performance, you can adjust camera settings to reduce bandwidth usage, limit the number of active cameras, and adjust the software’s CPU usage settings.
