Agent DVR: Powerful, Free Security Camera Software

Agent DVR is a self-hosted surveillance system that turns your PC, network cameras, or USB webcams into a full-featured security solution. Unlike cloud-based alternatives, it lets you store and control footage your way—without subscription fees or privacy concerns. If you need to monitor your home, business, or even pets, Agent DVR provides customizable security at no cost for local use.

Agent DVR is free for personal use and local recordings, with optional paid upgrades for AI-powered features. It works with USB webcams, ONVIF cameras, RTSP/MJPEG streams, and Raspberry Pi cameras. While an internet connection isn’t required for local use, it’s needed for remote viewing and cloud storage. Remote access works without port forwarding, making it easy to check cameras from a browser. Recordings can be stored locally on your PC/NAS or on cloud services like Google Drive, OneDrive, or FTP. The AI-powered motion detection helps reduce false alerts by identifying people, vehicles, and animals. Smart home users will appreciate integrations with Home Assistant, MQTT, and IFTTT. Supported platforms include Windows, macOS, Linux, Docker, and Raspberry Pi. Setup is straightforward for basic configurations, but advanced users may need some networking knowledge.

What Can You Use It For?

Agent DVR is a versatile security tool. Home users can set up a DIY security system, complete with motion detection alerts and remote access. Businesses can monitor multiple locations and store recordings on a secure local server or NAS instead of relying on the cloud. It’s also great for pet or baby monitoring, wildlife watching, or even temporary surveillance setups for events or rentals.

Motion detection lets you receive alerts when movement is detected, reducing the need for 24/7 monitoring. With remote access from any browser, you can check in from anywhere without dealing with port forwarding or complicated network configurations.

Installation & Setup

Getting started is easy but requires some setup. Download Agent DVR and install it on Windows, Linux, macOS, or Raspberry Pi. Add your cameras—whether USB webcams, IP cameras (ONVIF, RTSP, MJPEG), or even Raspberry Pi modules. Once connected, configure motion detection, recording schedules, and alerts.

Agent DVR works offline for local-only use but supports remote access without port forwarding, making it one of the simplest ways to check in on your security feed from anywhere. Footage can be stored locally on your PC or NAS or sent to Google Drive, OneDrive, or FTP servers. Unlike many competitors, it gives you full control over where your recordings go.

Key Features & Performance

One of Agent DVR’s standout features is its AI-powered motion detection, which can distinguish between people, vehicles, and animals—reducing false alerts. Notifications can be sent via email, SMS, or push alerts, so you’re always in the loop.

Recording options are flexible: continuous recording, motion-triggered events, or schedule-based recording. Smart home users will appreciate its integration with Home Assistant, MQTT, and IFTTT, allowing cameras to interact with alarms, lights, or other security systems.

Performance depends on system specs. A basic setup with one or two cameras runs smoothly on most PCs, while multiple HD streams with AI detection require more CPU and RAM. It’s optimized for low power consumption but benefits from a dedicated system if you plan to run a large security network.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

Free for personal use, with no forced subscriptions

Supports multiple camera types (USB, IP, ONVIF, RTSP)

AI-powered motion detection with smart filtering

Remote access works without port forwarding

Flexible storage options—local, NAS, or cloud

Cons:

Setup can be technical for beginners

AI detection requires a strong CPU for best performance

No standalone mobile app—you must configure via a PC

Geek Verdict

Agent DVR is a powerful, privacy-focused security system that lets you control every aspect of your surveillance. While it takes some setup, it’s one of the best free options for those wanting full control, flexible storage, and remote access without relying on a cloud service. If you need a customizable, powerful, and private surveillance solution, Agent DVR is worth checking out.