Security & smart-home glossary
Plain-language definitions for the terms you'll see on quotes and spec sheets — each linked to a guide that explains it and a service that delivers it.
How to use this glossary
Use these definitions to decode estimates and understand what matters before you book. Each term connects to a Learning Center guide so you can move from terminology to a real decision.
Security & Surveillance
NVR (Network Video Recorder)
A recorder that captures and stores video from IP cameras over a network cable (PoE). NVRs handle high-resolut…
Define → Security & SurveillanceDVR (Digital Video Recorder)
An older recorder that captures video from analog (coax-cabled) cameras. DVRs cost less up front but cap resol…
Define → Security & SurveillanceIP camera
A digital security camera that sends video as data over a network cable. IP cameras deliver higher resolution,…
Define → Security & SurveillanceONVIF
An open industry standard that lets cameras, recorders, and software from different manufacturers work togethe…
Define → Security & SurveillanceCamera resolution (1080p / 4K / MP)
How much detail a camera captures, measured in megapixels (MP) or shorthand like 1080p and 4K. Higher resoluti…
Define → Security & SurveillanceField of view (FoV)
The width of the scene a camera can see, set by its lens. Wide angles cover more area at lower detail; narrow …
Define →Access Control
Access control
An electronic system that controls who can open a door and when, using credentials like fobs, cards, codes, or…
Define → Access ControlMaglock (magnetic lock)
An electromagnet that holds a door shut while powered, releasing when power is cut. Maglocks are strong and si…
Define → Access ControlElectric strike
A powered door-frame plate that releases the latch to allow entry while keeping the door physically latched. S…
Define → Access ControlCredential
Whatever a person presents to unlock a door — a key fob, proximity card, PIN code, or smartphone. Mobile crede…
Define → Access ControlRequest-to-exit (REX)
A motion sensor or button that signals the system someone is leaving, so the door releases for free egress wit…
Define →Low-Voltage Wiring
Structured cabling
A planned, labeled low-voltage cabling system — data, phone, TV, cameras — running back to a central panel or …
Define → Low-Voltage WiringCat6 / Cat6a cable
Twisted-pair data cabling. Cat6 supports multi-gigabit speeds over typical runs; Cat6a adds shielding and full…
Define → Low-Voltage WiringPatch panel
A mounted block where all the cable runs terminate and get labeled, then connect to network gear with short pa…
Define → Low-Voltage WiringPlenum-rated cable
Cable with a fire-resistant, low-smoke jacket required when wiring runs through air-handling spaces (plenums).…
Define →Network Infrastructure
Power over Ethernet (PoE)
Technology that delivers both data and electrical power to a device over a single network cable. PoE powers ca…
Define → Network InfrastructureVLAN (Virtual LAN)
A way to split one physical network into separate logical networks — for example, isolating security cameras o…
Define → Network InfrastructureWireless access point (WAP)
A wired-in device that broadcasts Wi-Fi. Several professionally placed access points give whole-property cover…
Define →Smart-Home Automation
Smart-home hub / controller
The central brain that connects and coordinates smart devices — lights, locks, thermostats, cameras — so they …
Define → Smart-Home AutomationMatter / Thread
Newer smart-home standards designed for interoperability and reliability. Matter lets devices from different b…
Define → Smart-Home AutomationSmart lock
An electronic door lock you control by code, app, or fob — and that can tie into access logs and automations. …
Define →Talk to a real local pro
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