Security cameras are only as useful as the footage they capture. So if your camera stops recording, it can leave your home or business vulnerable. There are a number of reasons this can happen — from simple configuration issues to hardware failures.
In this guide, we’ll walk through why your security camera might not be recording and how to fix each issue effectively.
🔍 1. Storage Is Full or Not Working
Problem:
Your camera can’t save footage because there’s no available space or the storage device is faulty.
Common Causes:
- SD card is full
- Hard drive (DVR/NVR) is at capacity
- Cloud storage limit has been reached
- Corrupted or incompatible storage medium
How to Fix:
- Delete old footage manually or set auto-overwrite (loop recording) in settings.
- Format the SD card within the camera’s app or settings menu.
- Replace or upgrade the storage device if it’s damaged or too small.
- Check compatibility — not all cameras support all SD card brands or sizes.
- Cloud users should verify storage limits and subscription status.
⚙️ 2. Motion Detection Not Triggering Recording
Problem:
The camera only records when it detects motion — but isn’t picking anything up.
Common Causes:
- Motion detection is disabled
- Sensitivity is set too low
- Incorrect detection zones
- Firmware glitch
How to Fix:
- Enable motion detection in the settings.
- Increase the sensitivity level — too low and it won’t trigger.
- Redefine the motion zones to cover the right areas.
- Check if there’s a schedule preventing motion triggers (like night-only detection).
- Reboot the camera and check for firmware updates.
📡 3. Camera Is Offline
Problem:
If the camera isn’t connected to the network or power, it can’t record anything.
Common Causes:
- Wi-Fi or internet outage
- Power supply disruption
- Camera reboot loop or freeze
How to Fix:
- Check camera power cable and LED indicators.
- Test your Wi-Fi connection with another device.
- Reboot your router and camera.
- If using PoE (Power over Ethernet), ensure the switch is functioning.
- Set up local storage backup in case of future outages.
📅 4. Recording Schedule Misconfigured
Problem:
The camera isn’t set to record 24/7 — or isn’t scheduled to record at all.
Common Causes:
- Recording hours are restricted
- Wrong timezone or system time
- “Event-only” recording mode selected
How to Fix:
- Go to the camera’s or NVR’s recording schedule and select 24/7 if needed.
- Adjust the timezone and system clock to match your location.
- Switch from “event-only” to “continuous” if constant footage is needed.
- Reboot the system after schedule updates to apply changes.
🛠️ 5. Software or Firmware Glitch
Problem:
A bug or outdated firmware may prevent your camera from recording.
Common Causes:
- Old firmware
- Corrupted software settings
- App crashing or freezing
How to Fix:
- Update the firmware via the app or camera’s web interface.
- Clear app cache and data, or reinstall it.
- Perform a factory reset (last resort) and reconfigure the camera.
- Contact the manufacturer for support files or bug reports.
🔒 6. Permissions or Account Issues (Cloud Cameras)
Problem:
Cloud-based cameras need proper account permissions and subscriptions.
Common Causes:
- Expired cloud plan
- Camera not linked to the account
- App permissions denied
How to Fix:
- Log in and verify your cloud subscription is active.
- Ensure the camera is properly linked to your user account.
- Allow necessary app permissions (storage, network, background activity).
- Review your provider’s storage policies for retention and access.
🔄 7. Recording Turned Off by Accident
Problem:
Sometimes it’s just a simple mistake.
How to Fix:
- Open the camera app or desktop software.
- Go to the settings and make sure recording is enabled.
- If using an NVR/DVR, make sure the channel is set to record.
✅ Final Checklist
Before calling support, try this checklist:
- ✅ Is the camera powered on?
- ✅ Is the storage device inserted, functioning, and not full?
- ✅ Is motion detection or schedule configured properly?
- ✅ Is your camera connected to the internet (or DVR/NVR)?
- ✅ Have you updated firmware and the app?
If you’ve ticked all these boxes and it’s still not working, you may be dealing with a hardware failure or need to escalate to the manufacturer’s support team.
Want Help Setting This Up?
Let me know the brand and model of your security camera, and I can give you specific instructions based on that system!
