In small businesses, offices or buildings, it can often be difficult to justify the cost of installing IP cameras against the benefits, but this solution provides intuitive, cost-effective IP video specifically for smaller installations. Consisting of a free software client for up to 16 cameras or video encoders with SD card support, the solution only requires Ethernet cabling and a standard switch or router to stream and record video. The Companion requires neither DVR, nor NVR, nor computer past the initial setup, and the solution runs entirely inside the camera or encoder, with video monitored or recorded via the software client. This eliminates the need for separate power cables, and existing analog can be integrated. The software also supports motion detection and PTZ control.