Zoneminder

Self-Hosted

Open-source video surveillance system for monitoring cameras

Overview

Zoneminder is a robust self-hosted video surveillance platform supporting diverse camera types (IP, analog, USB, etc.). It offers advanced motion detection, scheduled recording, event tagging, and remote access via a web interface. Users can monitor live feeds, review footage, and set activity alerts. Scalable for multiple cameras, it integrates with third-party tools for automation. Deployment works on Linux systems (or Docker) and prioritizes privacy by storing footage locally, making it ideal for home or small business use.

Self-Hosting Resources

Find Official Image on Docker Hub View Source & Docs

Below is a reference structure for docker-compose.yml. ⚠️ Do NOT run blindly. Replace placeholders with official values.

docker-compose.template.yml TEMPLATE


version: '3'
services:
  zoneminder:
    image: <OFFICIAL_IMAGE_NAME>:latest
    container_name: zoneminder
    ports:
      - "8080:<APP_INTERNAL_PORT>"
    volumes:
      - ./data:/app/data
    restart: unless-stopped

Key Features

Supports diverse camera types (IP, analog, USB)
Advanced motion detection & event management
Web-based interface for remote monitoring

Frequently Asked Questions

? Is Zoneminder hard to install?

Zoneminder can be installed via Linux package managers or Docker containers. Docker simplifies setup for new users, while manual installation needs configuring dependencies like Apache and MySQL. Community guides help, but basic technical knowledge is beneficial.

? Is Zoneminder a good alternative to proprietary tools like Nest Cam?

Yes—it offers core features (live monitoring, recording) with local storage (better privacy) and no fees. It supports more camera types than many proprietary options, though it lacks some seamless mobile integration of Nest Cam.

? Is Zoneminder completely free?

Yes—Zoneminder is open-source under the GPL. There are no software costs, but users may pay for hardware (cameras, server) or optional third-party integrations.

Top Alternatives

Nest Cam (Proprietary) Search Google

Arlo (Proprietary) Search Google

Tool Info

Pricing Free/Open Source

Category Video Surveillance

Platform Self-Hosted

Pros

⊕ Privacy-focused (local footage storage)
⊕ No recurring subscription fees

Cons

⊖ Requires Linux deployment (or Docker)
⊖ Steeper learning curve for beginners