What You’ll Need

  • A server or virtual machine with sufficient resources (recommended: 8 GB RAM, 4 CPUs, and 1 TB of storage).
  • IP cameras or USB webcams.
  • A Linux distribution (e.g., Ubuntu 20.04 or newer).
  • Basic knowledge of networking and Linux commands.

Step 1: Decide Between ZoneMinder and Shinobi

ZoneMinder

  • A mature, feature-rich open-source surveillance system.
  • Offers advanced features like PTZ (Pan-Tilt-Zoom), motion detection, and event-based recording.
  • Suitable for users comfortable with a detailed configuration process.

Shinobi

  • A modern, lightweight alternative with a clean, user-friendly web interface.
  • Excellent for users who prefer simplicity while still accessing robust functionality.

For this guide, we’ll focus on Shinobi due to its ease of use and efficient resource utilization.

Step 2: Prepare the Server

  1. Update the System
    Run the following command to ensure your system has the latest updates:
sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade -y
  1. Install Essential Tools
    Install required packages for setup:
sudo apt install curl git unzip -y
  1. Check Server Resources
    Ensure your server meets the recommended hardware specifications for smooth operation.

Step 3: Install Shinobi

  1. Clone the Shinobi Repository
    Clone Shinobi’s repository from GitHub:
git clone https://gitlab.com/Shinobi-Systems/Shinobi.git ~/Shinobi
cd ~/Shinobi
  1. Install Dependencies
    Install Node.js and other required dependencies:
curl -sL https://deb.nodesource.com/setup_16.x | sudo -E bash -
sudo apt install -y nodejs
npm install
  1. Setup the Database
    Install MySQL or MariaDB and create a database for Shinobi:
sudo apt install mysql-server -y
sudo mysql -e "CREATE DATABASE ccio; CREATE USER 'shinobi'@'localhost' IDENTIFIED BY 'password'; GRANT ALL PRIVILEGES ON ccio.* TO 'shinobi'@'localhost'; FLUSH PRIVILEGES;"
  1. Configure Shinobi
    Copy the configuration file and modify it for your environment:
cp conf.sample.json conf.json
nano conf.json

Update the database credentials and any other necessary settings.

  1. Start Shinobi
    Start the Shinobi service:
sudo node camera.js
  1. Access the Web Interface
    Open your browser and navigate to http://<your_server_ip>:8080. Create an admin account during the first login.

Step 4: Add Cameras

  1. Connect Cameras

    • For IP cameras, ensure they are on the same network as the Shinobi server.
    • For USB webcams, connect them directly to the server.

  2. Add Cameras to Shinobi

    • Log into the Shinobi web interface.
    • Go to Settings > Add Camera, and configure the stream URL and recording options.

  3. Test Streams
    Verify that live streams and recordings are working as expected.

Step 5: Monitor and Manage

  1. Enable Motion Detection
    In the camera settings, enable motion detection and configure the sensitivity.

  2. Set Storage Limits
    Define storage limits for recordings to avoid running out of disk space.

  3. Backup Your Configuration
    Regularly back up your Shinobi configuration and database for easy recovery.

FAQs

Q: Can I use ZoneMinder instead of Shinobi?
A: Yes, ZoneMinder is a robust alternative, but it has a steeper learning curve and requires more resources.

Q: What types of cameras are supported?
A: Both IP cameras (RTSP/ONVIF) and USB webcams are supported.

Q: How do I access my surveillance system remotely?
A: Set up port forwarding or a reverse proxy like Traefik or Nginx to access Shinobi from outside your network securely.

Q: Does Shinobi support multiple users?
A: Yes, you can create multiple user accounts with varying permissions.

Q: How much disk space do I need?
A: Disk space depends on the resolution, frame rate, and retention period of your recordings. Start with 1 TB or more for a multi-camera setup.

By using Shinobi or ZoneMinder, you can build a cost-effective, feature-rich surveillance system for your home. Whether you need basic monitoring or advanced functionality, these tools have you covered!