Choosing a PoE Router for Your Next CCTV Install

What a PoE Router Actually Replaces

A standard router handles routing and Wi-Fi. A PoE router does that plus supplies power directly over the Ethernet cable to anything that needs it — cameras, some access points, intercoms. Instead of a router, a separate PoE injector per camera, and a switch to tie it all together, you're running one device. Fewer boxes means fewer points of failure and less cable clutter in the switchboard or comms cabinet, which matters on jobs where space is already tight.

Not all routers handle PoE the same way, though. Some only power a couple of ports at a lower wattage, which is fine for basic dome cameras but won't run a PTZ camera or an IR-heavy unit reliably. Check the PoE power budget listed on the unit before you spec it against the cameras going in — that number matters more than the port count on its own.

Sizing It to the Job

Start with how many PoE devices are actually going in now, then add a couple of spare ports for whatever gets added later — a client who asks for four cameras this year usually asks for two more next year. Also check WAN ports if the site needs failover: a second WAN input means the client's cameras and recorder don't drop out the moment the primary connection has an issue, which matters a lot more to a business client than it sounds on paper.

Pairing the router with the right matters here too — an NVR pulls its video stream over the same network the PoE router is managing, so the router's throughput and port count need to match what the recorder is expecting, not just what the cameras need to power on.

Common Mistakes on PoE Router Installs

Putting It Together on Site

For a straightforward four-to-six camera retail or small office job, the 5-port unit is usually enough, and the security gateway router is worth considering when the client wants a system that's built with security-specific features in mind rather than a general-purpose router pressed into service. Bigger jobs — multi-tenant buildings, warehouses with a dozen cameras plus access control — are where the 10-port unit earns its keep, since running out of PoE ports halfway through a job means either a second box or an awkward conversation with the client about scope.

Not every site has a fixed internet connection ready to go when the cameras need to start uploading footage — a new build or a demountable on a construction site is often still waiting on its NBN connection weeks after the cameras are already up. On those jobs, a 4G router covering the gap until the fixed line lands keeps the client's system live from day one instead of sitting dark until the connection's sorted. And on properties where the cameras aren't all on one building — a shed or a detached garage separate from the main structure — running a wireless bridge across to the far building means you're not trenching cable just to get one more camera online.

Check the CCTV power supply sizing once the router and camera count are settled — the PoE budget on the router covers the cameras themselves, but if there's a separate NVR or additional non-PoE gear on the same circuit, that's a different sizing question entirely.

Frequently Asked Questions

Compliance & Cabling

Do I need an ACMA-registered cabler to install PoE cameras and a PoE router?

Generally yes — structured data cabling for CCTV systems typically falls under ACMA's cabling licensing rules, so confirm your registration covers the class of cabling work involved before quoting the job.

Does a PoE router need to be on a dedicated circuit?

Not usually — most run fine off a general power circuit like any other network device, but check the manufacturer's specs if it's sharing a circuit with other higher-draw equipment.

Choosing & Sizing

How many PoE ports do I need for a typical small business CCTV job?

Enough for the current camera count plus 2-3 spare, since additions are common. For anything past six to eight cameras, look at a 10-port unit so you're not squeezed out on the next visit.

Will a PoE router work with a vehicle DVR setup?

Not directly — vehicle DVR systems run off the vehicle's own power supply rather than a fixed PoE router, so they're a different setup entirely.

Do I still need an alarm panel if I'm already running CCTV on a PoE router?

Yes — CCTV and intrusion alarm are separate systems. If the job includes both, sizing the alarm zones is a separate step from sizing the PoE router.

Can I mix PoE cameras and non-PoE devices on the same router?

Yes — non-PoE devices just plug into the regular Ethernet ports and won't draw from the PoE power budget.

Shop PoE Router at Schnap

Trade discounts apply and orders placed before cut-off ship same-day from Kingsgrove NSW.

• 5-Port Managed PoE Router (MG01)
• 10-Port Managed PoE Router (MG02)
• PoE Security Gateway Router (SG01)

Browse the full router range at Schnap.