Users looking for durable and affordable IP surveillance cameras have widely accepted the Ubiquiti AirCam series. Included in the greater Ubiquiti ecosystem, these cameras are also well-known for their versatility, impressive abilities, and compatibility with other Ubiquiti devices, such as UniFi and Protect. One of the core issues associated with the installation and operation of the AirCam is knowing its default IP address and how to deal with it as well as the issues of configuring and operating the device in different network topologies. This review explores all the aspects concerning the Ubiquiti AirCam’s default IP that one needs to know such as installation, issues, maintainance and performance enhancement within a particular surveillance system.
Introduction to Ubiquiti AirCam and Default IP
The Ubiquiti AirCam is a range of IP cameras for home and enterprise CCTV systems. These cameras offer the user sophisticated surveillance features yet are not expensive. Network cameras such as the Ubiquiti Air Cam are IP based, which means that the camera is connected to the network through either an Ethernet cable or via Wi-Fi and accessed over the internet through a web browser, an application, or an operating software. So as to use and set up these devices, it is important to obtain the device’s default internet protocol address.
The default IP address is of paramount importance during the first setting up of the Ubiquiti AirCam device. The very first time you take this camera out of the box and turn it on, the default IP is what allows you to connect to the camera’s web configuration page. It may be impossible to even connect the camera to the network, let alone perform any of its functions, if this vital information is not available.
Which Ubiquiti AirCam Devices have the Default IP of 192 168 1 20?
When it comes to the case of Ubiquiti Aircam, the default ip address is commonly 192.168.1.20. This default IP addresses allows to view the camera’s web interface through a browser. You are able to go to this ip address in your browser and log in to the camera where you can carry out activities such as changing the network parameters, uploading the pictures into the camera, or customizing the security features of the camera.
Even though majority of the time the default ip is 192.168.1.20, it is worth mentioning that this is only true when the camera does not have any connection with any Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) server and is working on stand alone mode. When she connects to router which have dhcp free for the camera, the camera will probably change its ip status from default and take another ip address assigned by the dhcp server in the network.
Default IP Access for the Ubiquiti AirCam to Ubiquiti AirCam
A Max/Net1000b wireless vide camera, known as Ubiquiti Aircam, you set up without any configurations requires a default static IP address of 192.168.1.20. When accessing the aircam, please take the following steps.
Connect the Camera – Fix the AirCam within the network with an Ethernet cable. Make sure the computer is on the same subnet (i.e. 192.168.1.x) as the default ip address of the camera.
Adjust IP Configuration of Your Computer: In case your local area network does not configure the IP addresses in the 192.168.1.x subnet, you will be required to set an IP address in the range, on your PC, that is able to communicate with the camera. For example, configure the IP address of your PC to be 192.168.1.10 with a subnet mask of 255.255.255.0.
Launch a Web Browser: Enter http://192.168.1.20 in the address bar of the web browser, and press Enter key. The webpage for the camera settings will appear afterward.
Logging In: The universality of Ubiquiti AirCam cameras places their username and password in the same category and they are usually ubnt/ubnt by default. Enter the details and navigate to the user interface where the settings can be customized.
2. Ubiquiti’s Discovery Tool
If you do not know the IP address where the camera was set or if you do not have access to it at the default IP, Ubiquiti offers a discovery tool that finds Ubiquiti devices connected to your network. This tool allows you to find the cameras by scanning the network for the IP addresses of any Ubiquiti devices connected to the network, including AirCams.
To Utilise Ubiquiti Discovery Tool, the following steps are followed:
Go to Ubiquiti’s page and download the Ubiquiti Discovery Tool.
Follow the instructions to install and open the application.
The application will search and list all Ubiquiti devices installed in the network along with their IP address, MAC address, and other information.
After spotting the AirCam, you can simply click on the IP address to access the camera’s web portal without any other steps involved.
This is especially beneficial when your camera is connected to a DHCP-enabled network and assigned a TAG IP, or when there are several Ubiquiti devices used on the same network.
Updating the Ubiquiti AirCam’s Default IP Address
There are cases with users who find it necessary to change the camera’s default IP address from 192.168.1.20 into some other one suitable for the respective network configuration. This is more so if several AirCams or devices are in use and might cause conflict with the default range set for the IPs.
To change the default IP, follow the simple procedure below.
Log Into the Camera: Using the default IP address (192.168.1.20) or the IP provided by the DHCP server, proceed to access the camera’s interface.
Navigate to Network Settings: Access the website and open the network settings tab. In this section, you will observe static and DHCP IP address configurations.
Assign a New IP Address: Choose the option of static IP address, then type the required IP address of your network. The new IP in assignment should be within the range of the sub network and should not interfere with the operation of other devices.
Save Changes and Reboot: After the modification of the IP address has been undertaken, save the new configurations and restart the camera. A new IP address will be needed to access the camera’s web application after it starts again.
Common Issues and Troubleshooting
Sure, the installation and configuration of Ubiquiti AirCam with the default IP is almost flawless but there are several issues that the users still experience. These are some of the problems that occur quite often and how to fix them:
1. You Are Unable to Get Through the Camera’s Web Page
In an event that you are unable to access the web page of the camera using the assigned default IP address (192.168.1.20) then it may be due to the following reasons:
Incorrect Network Subnet: Verify that the computer being used to access the camera is within the same subnet as the camera. If the aforementioned IP range of the network is a different one, for instance, 192.168.0.x, then it would mean that the IP address of the PC will have to be set manually as discussed previously.
IP Conflict: It is likely that there exists another device in the network utilizing the same IP address with the camera (192.168.1.20). Identify any overlapping IP addresses and address them either by changing the IP assigned to the camera or to the device that is causing an overlap.
Firewall or Security Software: Microsoft Windows is equipped with firewalls and other security software that may sometimes prevent access to the web configuration the camera. Turn off any such devices or software for the time being and try the steps once again.
2. Forgot user name and password
The default user name and password for the Ubiquiti AirCams is: “ubnt/ubnt”. Should either you or any other person change these details and forget about it, the last alternative may be to factory reset the camera. A factory reset will delete all information including username and password and restore them to their default settings.
To factory reset the Ubiquiti AirCam:
Find the reset switch on the camera (this is often a tiny hole at the back or on the side of the camera).
Using a paperclip or similar object, press and hold the reset button for around 10-15 segundos.
Once the camera’s LED indicator lights start blinking, which means that the reset process has been completed, release the button.
After the reset process, you will be able to use the IP and login details of the camera.
3. Confusion of a Dynamic IP Address
In cases where a DHCP network is used to assign IP addresses to devices on the network, the camera’s IP may change at intervals. This factor can make it difficult to reach the camera at all times, especially when different devices are used. In order to mitigate this problem, it is advisable to give fixed IP addresses to the camera or alternatively, configure the router to always give the camera the same IP address by DHCP reservation.
4. Unable to find the camera in the Ubiquiti Discovery Tool
If you cannot find your camera in the Ubiquiti Discovery Tool, a few things to check include:
The camera is turned on and connected to the network.
The tool is used in the same subnet as that of the camera.
No security application is preventing the tool from performing any scanning on the network.
In some instances, simply power cycling the camera or closing and opening the Discovery Tool may fix the problem.
Security Risks Using Default IP Address
Exploiting the device with its default settings such as the IP address and login details may pose a danger to the network since every user knows these configurations and they can easily be used for evil purposes. Therefore, once the camera has been set up, measures should be put in place to keep it safe.
1. Alter the Address Associated with the Camera
Attackers who write computer programs designed to find IP video surveillance systems beware known default IP’s. Custom networks, therefore, have IP addresses configured for them. This helps to avoid unauthorized detection and/or access of the camera by potential attackers.
2. Modify the Password
The first order of business after connecting to the camera using its default IP address is to change the default password (admin / admin). This means that the chances of anyone using the password to gain access to the camera will be much lower.
3. Turn Off Programs and Applications You Don’t Need
In some instances, there may be services by default enabled in your Ubiquiti AirCam depending on the firmware that you are using which may not be necessary for your intended use. More often than not, services like Telnet or SSH might be turned on for troubleshooting reasons but can be a security threat when left open. To reduce the risk of attack:
Turn off any services that you will not use.
Control access to the camera’s web interface or control services to trusted IP addresses only.
Where possible, use HTTPS, to protect the communication channel between the browser and the camera.
4. Keep Firmware Updated on a Regular Basis
Devices connected to the network, and IP cameras in particular, can become vulnerable after some time. Updating the firmware of Ubiquiti AirCam, for instance, helps you avoid nasty surprises caused by previously exposed weaknesses of certain protocols. From Ubiquiti’s website or via the camera itself, always look for new firmware versions and install them whenever the case warrants.
Enhancing Camera Capabilities After IP Configuration.
After the Ubiquiti AirCam is installed and configured with the default setting or configured after a default setting, the next stage will be adjusting the camera installation to suit your unique surveillance requirements. Performance of your AirCam is determined by several critical aspects: how it is networked, resolution enhanced, and the surrounding elements.
1. Bandwidth and Networking
Ubiquiti AirCam revolutionary system video streams are typically very bandwidth intensive. If for example, there are several cameras provided within the network landscape, operating the cameras is very demanding on the network. Here are a few pointers on how to improve the network efficiency:
Connect using Ethernet: Although some models of AirCams are adapted to work in wireless (Wi-Fi) mode, it is recommended to work in action with Ethernet cable, especially in situations where there are many interferences.
Adjust Video Quality Settings Appropriately: Clearly higher picture resolution and frame rates are preferable as they deliver better image quality but use of these settings will require more bandwidth. Ubiquiti allows you to make changes to these parameters within the camera interface hence providing a quality and performance optimization window.
Reduce Number of Streams: In case of central monitoring systems or video management software VMS try to minimize the number of streams at the same time in order not to burden the network too much.
Isolate Your Surveillance Network: In bigger installations you may want to set up a separate VLAN for IP cameras in order to protect existing traffic from surveillance network activity. This way heavy surveillance streams will not affect any other important business or home applications on the network.
2. Video Storage and Archiving
The storage solution you decide on will determine how much footage you will be able to keep and for how long. The Ubiquiti AirCam works well with various NVR (Network Video Recorder) solutions including Ubiquiti’s UniFi Video or Blue Iris and other solutions. Also prepare to:
Storage capacity: Determine what the storage needs will be considering the monitoring camera’s capabilities in terms of resolution and frames per second and the storage retention period. The Ubiquiti AirCams provide most of the users an opportunity to use a wide range of bitrates as well as recording patterns (e.g. continuous recording, motion detection recording etc) hence able to control the storage better.
Utilization of the cloud storage: Some may want to use cloud storage services to provide more redundancy or facilitated remote access. However, do note that the cloud storage requires enough upload bandwidth of existence, and does depend on the provider, costs may apply.
Backup Protocols: Footage is a must to have a backup protocols enforced always. It is advisable to store other critical videos on an external hard disk or cloud database on a routine basis so as to avoid loss in other systems during a crash.
3. Environmental Setup
Outward Cameras, for example, Ubiquiti AirCam, could be for in-house usage while others distinctly designed for outside usage. The placement of these devices and modification of the environment needs to be done for them to function optimally.
Outdoor models are made in such a way that they can be mounted. However they should be mounted in places shielded from rain and dust otherwise, placed in a proper shade. In other words such a camera should not be exposed to rain or dust nor extreme weather conditions.
Lighting conditions: AirCams incorporate several features that can be used in view of different lighting conditions, for example, WDR, which is wide dynamic range and night mode among others. These factors WDR and night mode as well as others aids in getting the right footage which might otherwise be impossible in situations such as glaring sunlight or darkness.
Camera Field of View and Placement: Positioning the cctv camera should be done in such a way that maximum coverage is achieved. The field of view should be adjusted to minimize any blind sport while ensuring that the main focus which is the entrance or congested areas is clearly captured.
Integration with Ubiquiti Ecosystem
One of the primary benefits of the Ubiquiti AirCam is the ease of incorporation into the larger structure that is Ubiquiti, most especially UniFi. For all users who have a Ubiquiti network infrastructure (router(s), switches, wireless access points, etc.) within their reach adding AirCams presents a comprehensive management solution to surveillance.
1. Software for Video Monitoring by Unifi
Ubiquiti has developed a program called UniFi Video which is intended for video surveillance operations, particularly with AirCam and other Ubiquiti cameras. UniFi Video presents a console that allows an operator to keep track of the different cameras, to record footage and view live performance of the cameras. Some of the highlights include:
Centralized Management: Control an array of cameras from one interface.
Movement Detection: Configure the zones and get notifications when there is movement in targeted zones.
Mobile App Access: The application of UniFi Video enables access to the system via mobile devices, enabling users to view the cameras even in places away from the surveillance system.
With UniFi Video, it is possible for the AirCam default IP address to still come in handy during the initial installation, however after installation, it becomes easier to connect the camera to a network of cameras used for surveillance in a more sophisticated way.
2. Add-ons for Protect Systems
For those familiar with UniFi Protect, Ubiquiti’s NVR solution for the present era, it is a straightforward process to incorporate the latest Ubiquiti cameras within the framework. The AirCam series cameras may face new challenges while integrating the Protect systems, but including them in the complex infrastructure of Ubiquiti many based systems enhances the performance with enabling features such as cloud management and advanced video analysis systems.
Enhanced Capabilities of Ubiquiti AirCam
In addition to the primary installation, factory default IP address, and precautionary steps, Ubiquiti AirCam has more advanced options for professional users who wish to fully utilize the features of their security apparatus.
1. RTSP Capabilities
The AirCam is equipped with an RTSP (Real Time Streaming Protocol) which allows for easy connection with different media players, VMS systems, or even self-designed home automations among other hardware and software. Streaming RTSP is mostly convenient when there is a need to transfer in a live stream video from the camera to different applications or services at the same time.
2. ONVIF Compatibility
Although the AirCam was built with other Ubiquiti products in mind, it also provides support for ONVIF, which is not an all-encompassing network protocol. This enables users to integrate the aircam within other video management software enabled solutions. This is with particular reference to clients with existing ONVIF supported NVRs who wish to use the camera without Ubiquiti NVR.
3. Firmware Customization
For users with advanced computer knowledge, Ubiquiti gives an option of adapting the firmware settings and specifications to their tastes. Power users are able to edit system files, convert certain system parameters, and even write special programs which would be triggered to carry out certain tasks on certain conditions. However, these ’enhancements’ should be left to those very comfortable with Linux systems as the wrong inputs can ‘brick’ the device or its usable features modified.
Conclusion
The Ubiquiti AirCam is an adaptable and cost-effective IP camera solution ideal for home as well as business use. For the initial configuration purposes, the default IP address of this camera (192.168.1.20) is very important, as this allows the user to set up the camera and connect it to the network. To fully utilize the camera, it’s important to know how to access and change the settings of a particular camera using its default IP.
The AirCam can be customized to fit within the requirements of different networks, levels of video quality and storage capacity once it has been set up making it an attractive option for many different types of surveillance applications. Thanks to the Ubiquiti ecosystem such as UniFi Video and Protect, no wonder it is easier to use with users who already have the Ubiquiti networking products.
It goes without saying that using IP cameras entails security risks, and Ubiquiti provides a variety of measures to help air cam users protect the device from intruders. For the sake of ensuring that the camera system won’t get old or compromised at all, changing default IP addresses, protecting login details, and updating the system version regularly cannot be ignored.
To summarize, with all the video configurations together with the settings and optimization processes done, the Ubiquiti AirCam can effectively be used as a security camera for customers who are bent on getting value for their money. For example, whether you are installing one camera or an elaborate multi camera set up, properly realizing the use and management of default IP will enable a trouble-free and efficient surveillance process.