You can turn a Windows PC into a security camera system without a monthly subscription. Use SecureView if you have network IP cameras (ONVIF or RTSP), or Webcam Capture if you want to use USB or built-in webcams. Both detect motion, record to your PC and can back up to OneDrive.
| SecureView | Webcam Capture | |
|---|---|---|
| Camera type | Network IP cameras (ONVIF / RTSP) | USB and built-in webcams |
| Cameras at once | Up to 8 | Up to 4 in preview |
| Motion detection | Yes, with detection masks | Yes, plus face detection |
| PTZ control | Yes | No |
| Email alerts | Yes | Yes |
| OneDrive backup | Optional | Optional |
| Windows version | Windows 11 | Windows 10 and 11 |
| Price | Free | Free (optional in-app purchases) |
View and record up to 8 IP/ONVIF security cameras live, with motion detection, PTZ control and local recording. No cloud subscription needed.
Turn your webcam into a smart security camera with motion detection, recording and instant email alerts.
Watch and record your IP security cameras on a Windows 11 PC for free. Find the camera, add it over ONVIF or RTSP, and view up to 8 feeds at once.
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Connect any ONVIF IP camera to a Windows PC: enable ONVIF, create an ONVIF user, find the camera, add it to a viewer and fix common connection errors.
Read guideRTSP streams video; ONVIF is a standard that also handles discovery, setup and PTZ. Learn how they differ, how they work together and which to use.
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What to look for in a free IP camera viewer for Windows 10 and 11: ONVIF support, camera limits, motion recording, privacy and cost. Includes a comparison.
Read guideSave security camera footage on your own Windows PC instead of paying for cloud plans. Plan storage, set up motion recording and keep an optional backup.
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Compare webcams and IP cameras for home security: placement, image quality, night vision, cost and software. Find out which fits your home and budget.
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Use the webcam you already own as a motion-activated security camera on Windows 10 or 11, with recording, email alerts and OneDrive backup. Free guide.
Read guideYes. Apps like SecureView (for IP cameras) and Webcam Capture (for webcams) turn a Windows PC into a recorder that detects motion and saves footage to your own drive, without a cloud subscription.
No. SecureView connects directly to ONVIF or RTSP cameras on your network and records on the PC, so the PC takes the role an NVR would normally play.
IP cameras are better for permanent coverage because they can be mounted anywhere on your network, often work outdoors and at night, and do not tie up a PC's USB ports. Webcams are fine for watching a single room near the PC.
No, not by default. Both apps save recordings on your PC. OneDrive backup is optional and uploads directly to your own Microsoft account.