Alarm.com video devices need an indefinite, always-on internet connection to function reliably. Some internet connections are incompatible due to restrictions they impose on bandwidth usage.
Note: While fixed cellular and satellite internet services are supported, they may experience intermittent outages at a higher rate than broadband alternatives. Performance depends on service coverage and varies by location. Always verify that the connection meets minimum bandwidth requirements for video services with an internet speed test at the time of install. While services in these categories may provide connections that meet minimum requirements at the time of install, service prioritization and quality can change over time. As a result, these connection types are not recommended.
Bandwidth requirements
Alarm.com video devices only use bandwidth when the user is streaming live video or SVR recorded footage, or when the device is uploading recorded video clips.
Alarm.com video devices primarily use upload speed, as opposed to download speed. Typically, Alarm.com requires an indefinite broadband connection of at least 0.5 Mbps of dedicated upload speed per video device. Keep in mind that 1080p streaming, doorbell cameras, Two-Way Audio, and SVR integration all require additional bandwidth.
Note: Dedicated upload speed refers to bandwidth only used by the video devices, so other connected devices (e.g., computers, smartphones, gaming consoles, etc.) require additional bandwidth on the internet connection.
Minimum bandwidth for residential video devices
The requirements listed on this page are based on a single user viewing one video device at a time.
The following limits describe where the audio and video streams start to become choppy under ideal environmental conditions (i.e., the Wi-Fi signal strength is strong and not blocked by walls or other objects).
Minimum bandwidth for residential video devices using Two-Way Audio
