Put cameras on their own VLAN: a practical network checklist for LA offices

Security cameras are network devices. When they share the same flat LAN as laptops, printers, and guest Wi-Fi, two problems show up quickly: video traffic competes with day-to-day work, and a compromised endpoint has a shorter path to sensitive systems.

A better default for Culver City and Los Angeles offices is segmentation. Put cameras (and usually recorders) on their own VLAN. Allow only the paths you need — for example, the NVR talking to cameras, and administrators reaching the NVR through controlled management access. Guest Wi-Fi should not see cameras. Staff devices should not casually browse every camera’s web UI.

Checklist we use in planning conversations:

1. Inventory cameras, NVR, switches, and firewalls.
2. Define VLANs for staff, guests, cameras, and voice/IoT if present.
3. Document firewall rules between VLANs — deny by default, allow by need.
4. Use unique credentials; retire shared defaults.
5. Plan remote viewing through the intended app or VPN path, not exposed camera ports.
6. Label switch ports and keep a simple diagram after changes.

VanquishNet designs the network the cameras depend on and pairs it with VanquishNet AI NVR for local-first recording. Physical low-voltage work is coordinated with licensed partners. For a walkthrough of your switch and Wi-Fi layout, see network design & Wi-Fi or call (818) 791-0055.