Using Facebook Portal as a Security Camera: Is It Possible?

Facebook Portal is a popular smart display that is primarily designed for video calling. With its built-in camera, some people wonder if the Portal can also function as a home security camera for monitoring purposes.

In short, while the Portal has some basic security features, it lacks many of the capabilities found in dedicated surveillance cameras. The Portal can provide casual remote monitoring during the day and night thanks to its motion tracking and night vision. However, it is not a full replacement for a security system due to the lack of video recording, limited motion detection, and fixed viewing angles.

Can Facebook Portal Be Used as A Security Camera — Facebook Portal Camera

Is It Possible to Use Facebook Portal as a Security Camera?

Yes, the Facebook Portal can be used as a security camera. It has a built-in camera that can stream live video to your smartphone or computer, and it can also be used to record video clips. Portal also has a number of features that make it a good choice for security use, such as:

Smart Camera: Portal’s Smart Camera can automatically pan and zoom to keep people in the frame, even if they’re moving around. This is helpful for monitoring a large area or for tracking a specific person.
Motion detection: Portal can send you alerts if it detects motion in the room. This can help you stay aware of what’s happening in your home, even when you’re away.
Night vision: Portal’s camera has night vision, so you can see what’s happening in your home even in low light conditions.

Key Factors About Using Facebook Portal as a Security Camera

There are a few important things to keep in mind when using the Portal as a security camera:

The Portal has a 12MP camera with a 113° diagonal field of view, suitable for monitoring larger areas. However, if you are willing to buy the Portal Go or Plus version then you will have a 125° diagonal field of view for the Go and 131° for the Plus version.
Video and audio can be streamed remotely through the Facebook Messenger app, allowing home monitoring from afar.
The Portal camera has infrared sensors enabling night vision in low light conditions.
Motion tracking and Smart Camera panning automatically follow people in the camera frame. However robust motion detection features are limited.
Continuous video recording and local storage is not possible with the Portal. It only provides live streaming.

While the Portal has some useful features, it lacks many standard security camera capabilities that limit its functionality.

Setup Tips for Using Facebook Portal as a Security Camera

To use the Portal effectively for home monitoring:

Position the Portal’s stand so the camera view covers key areas like entryways.
Adjust the angle and height to optimize the field of view. Wall mounting can also improve positioning.
Ensure the Portal stays powered on and connected to WiFi for remote access from your phone.
Open the Portal app and tap on the Devices tab.
Select the Portal device you want to use as a security camera.
Tap on the Security tab.
Enable the Motion detection feature.
Choose whether you want to receive alerts for all motions or just for people.
Tap on the Save button.

With optimal placement and settings, the Portal can provide some casual monitoring but has limits.

You can also use the Portal app to remotely view the live video feed from your Portal device. To do this, open the Portal app and tap on the Devices tab. Then, select the Portal device you want to view and tap on the Live view button.

If you want to record video clips from your Portal device, you can do so by tapping on the Record button in the live view. Portal will automatically save the video clips to your Facebook account. You can then view the video clips by opening the Portal app and tapping on the Library tab.

It’s important to note that Portal is not a professional security system. It doesn’t have the same features or level of protection as a commercial security system. However, it can be a useful way to monitor your home and stay aware of what’s happening.

Pros of Using Facebook Portal for Home Security

Potential benefits of using the Facebook Portal as a security camera:

Wide 113° to 130° field of view covers large indoor areas
Check in remotely via live video streaming through the app
Automatic motion tracking keeps subjects centered in the frame
Get notifications when people are detected during the day or night
Night vision enables black-and-white infrared surveillance in the dark
Use multiple Portals to monitor the whole home
No subscription needed for features like person detection

The Portal provides some convenient visibility both day and night for simple home monitoring needs.

Cons of Using Facebook Portal for Home Security

However, there are also considerable limitations:

No local video recording option
Motion detection settings are basic compared to dedicated security cameras
WiFi connection required to access live video
Fixed viewing angle lacks zoom capabilities
Not weatherproof for monitoring outdoors
No alarm siren or other active security deterrents

For serious surveillance applications, the Portal lacks numerous features expected in full-fledged security cameras.

End Notes

With its HD camera, night vision, and motion tracking, the Facebook Portal can provide basic home monitoring, especially for checking in during the day. However, lack of recording, limited detection features, and more make it insufficient as a standalone security camera for dedicated monitoring needs. With proper expectations set, the Portal has some DIY security uses but works best paired with an actual home surveillance system.

I hope this comprehensive overview helps explain how the Facebook Portal can and cannot realistically be used as a security camera! Please let me know if you need any clarification or have additional questions.