Security systems don’t last forever. Like any technology, CCTV cameras and other devices degrade, become outdated or fail to detect the latest threats. In a high-crime zone like Pretoria, keeping your security up-to-date isn’t just a wise decision, it’s essential.
If you’re relying on an older CCTV system, you might be unknowingly leaving blind spots and vulnerabilities that criminals can exploit.
At Tandem Security Systems, our installers have seen it all: from grainy footage that’s useless in court to broken night vision and unsecured access points. Below are five clear signs it’s time to upgrade your CCTV system, and how Tandem can help you do it efficiently, affordably, and professionally.
- Poor Image Quality (Especially at Night)
The nighttime is when more crime takes place. You don’t want fuzzy black-and-white footage where you can barely make out a face, license plate or even basic details. Older analogue systems or low-grade IP cameras struggle with resolution, particularly in poor lighting.
If your cameras:
Struggle at night or in shadows
Blur motion beyond recognition
Can’t provide HD or 4K playback
Fail to capture clear facial features or objects
…it’s time to replace them.
In Pretoria, where incidents like theft, break-ins and vandalism are commonplace, blurry footage won’t help the SAPS or your security company. Our modern CCTV systems record in full HD or even 4K, offer infrared night vision, and use smart sensors to adapt to lighting conditions. Below is one example of the clarity of our footage.
- Limited or No Remote Access
Modern CCTV systems allow you to view real-time footage from your smartphone, tablet, or laptop, anytime, anywhere. If you’re still using a system that can’t stream footage remotely, or doesn’t send alerts to your phone, your security system is in the dark ages.
Today’s systems offer remote monitoring, push notifications and secure cloud storage. At Tandem Security, we install systems that give instant access to footage of your property, whether you’re on-site or away on business.
- Frequent Equipment Failures or Gaps in Recording
If you’re constantly rebooting your CCTV system or reviewing footage only to find blank spots, your system is no longer reliable. Common red flags include:
- Cameras shutting off intermittently
- Hard drives filling up too quickly
- Missing or corrupted recordings
- Inability to record 24/7 or on motion detection
Don’t wait for the worst to happen. Criminals exploit systems they know are failing. We’ve helped businesses in Pretoria upgrade from clunky setups prone to failure to innovative, efficient systems with backup power and real-time alerts.
- Incompatible with Your New Security Needs
Maybe you’ve expanded your business, had a new extension built, or have changed your home. If your CCTV system doesn’t align with these changes, you’re probably missing critical areas.
Ask yourself:
- Have all entry and exit points been covered?
- Can you keep an eye on stock rooms, parking lots or server areas?
- Can your system be altered if your business grows?
We often encounter systems that were perfect five years ago, but now leave blind spots or don’t integrate with newer tech like electric fencing, access control or biometric scanners.
- You’re Using Outdated Software or Firmware
Cybersecurity isn’t just for laptops. CCTV systems are now a prime target for hackers, especially those connected to the internet. Older software might not encrypt data properly; it could allow unauthorized access, and often lacks security patches. It can even be remotely hijacked to spy on you!
Modern CCTV systems installed by Tandem Security feature encrypted channels, up-to-date firmware, and secure admin access, ensuring that only you and your authorized team can access your footage.
Bonus: You Haven’t Had a Security Audit in Over 3 Years
Even if your system isn’t broken, it might not be optimized. Cameras could be facing the wrong direction. You might be storing unnecessary hours of footage, using power inefficiently, or exposing your network.
We recommend a full security audit every 2–3 years, especially in a place of evolving threats like Pretoria.
Tandem Security offers free CCTV health checks for homes and businesses. We’ll assess your current setup and advise on smarter configurations, software upgrades, or hardware replacements, without overselling.
Why Choose Tandem Security for Your CCTV Upgrade?
With over 25 years of experience and a reputation for installing durable, custom-built security systems, Tandem Security Systems is trusted by corporate and residential clients alike throughout Pretoria and Johannesburg.
We take care to do our installations neatly and only use Cat 6 Solid copper wiring. Our team takes care to hide the wires as far as possible. We use:
- Advanced electronic components
- Electric fencing integration
- Scalable IP camera networks
- Trusted suppliers with long-term warranties
- Professional installation and ongoing support
Whether you’re a small retail shop or a corporate office park, we can design, install and maintain a CCTV system that reflects your needs, budget and risks. Our team is always happy to offer more information on our security solutions.