Foscam FI9821P Plug & Play Wireless IP Camera

I love this cam. It has so many features and is able to zoom in. I like the fact that it has a smartphone app, as well as a PC suite.

You can also record to a micro SD card, or directly to the cloud. It also has a 2 way mic/speaker so you can hear and speak through it. It is a bit of a pain in the butt to set up, or at least it was for me.

You have to scan a QR code with your smart phone in order to set it up that way. It comes with PC software but I wasnt able to get it to load on my computer so IDK if that was a personal issue or what. But I have it set up on my phone and tablet.

It also allows for push notifications if the motion or sound detector picks something up. I havent found a way to make it record or snap a picture when it does, so im not sure if that is a feature or not. But having the cam software on my tab and on my phone i get instant updates whenever it does.

Also you can embed the live feed into a webpage. This feature is good if you are running a daycare center or other type facility that you want to allow remote viewing of people. There are countless articles on how to embed these feeds, and secure them.

video surveillance mode click to make larger

Now I will say that you need to download and use Firefox or similar browser. I tried getting into the back end of the camera with Chrome, and Microsoft Edge and nothing. Im not sure how Safri will work, but the manufacturer suggested Chrome in a support email and it worked. If you are using an older system for recording, then you might be able to use Internet Explorer. But if you are looking for security then I would stick with Firefox.

Once you are able to get into the backend of the camera. You have access to all sorts of features, including but not limited to, viewing all the cameras you have connected. As well as setup recording locations or updating the system firmware and more.

backend features click to make larger

In an email with Foscam Support they said "We're actually taking steps to improve the software & user experience to match the quality of the hardware. We have a few major updates that are on the way, so definitely keep the software/firmware up-to-date in the next few weeks." This was on 9-6-16. So hopefully new users wont have to jump through so many hoops getting their cams up and running.

This also could be used for home security and or baby monitoring. It has builtin night vision mode that you can set to automatically turn on when there is low light conditions or to stay off all together. You also have almost 360 viewing. It is quite for the most part when operating. However, there is a loud click when the night vision comes on. Other than that this camera is well worth the investment.

I now want one that can go outdoors so i can install it at my front and back door.