Using Synology Surveillance Station with cameras that are NDAA compliant

[Enquiries]

Related to NDAA compliance: I'm not focused on strict compliance (no government contracts, etc), but I would like to hear your thoughts on security risks (and potential mitigation strategies) involved in using Reolink cameras on Synology Surveillance Station. Are there alternative, comparable NDAA compliant cameras compatible with SSS that are closer to price point of Reolink?

In particular, I'm thinking of getting the Reolink PoE Doorbell, but Reddit threads all say that it is not usable in SSS (it is generally compatible, but 2-way audio features don't actually work well enough to be useful). I couldn't find a NDAA compliant doorbell that is fully functional only via Synology (as opposed to using the Reolink or Amcrest app, which may introduce security vulnerabilities)

[ed]

Thanks for your question! It's important to consider both security and compatibility when setting up your home surveillance system.

Reolink Cameras and NDAA Compliance
While Reolink cameras are generally regarded for their affordability and features, you’re right to be cautious about potential security risks, especially if you’re connecting them to Synology Surveillance Station (SSS). Although you're not focused on strict NDAA compliance, using cameras that adhere to it can help mitigate some risks associated with security vulnerabilities.

Security Risks and Mitigation
Firmware Updates: Ensure that your Reolink cameras have the latest firmware to protect against known vulnerabilities.
Network Segmentation: Keep your surveillance system on a separate network or VLAN to limit exposure to other devices in your home network.
Strong Passwords: Use complex, unique passwords for all camera accounts and enable two-factor authentication if available.
Alternatives to Reolink
If you’re looking for NDAA compliant cameras compatible with Synology, here are a couple of options you might consider that are closer in price to Reolink:

Amcrest IP Cameras:

Many models are NDAA compliant and work well with Synology Surveillance Station.
Look for their PoE options for easy installation.
Hikvision (with caution):

Some models are NDAA compliant and work with SSS, but it’s essential to check compatibility with the latest firmware and features you need.
Doorbell Cameras
Regarding doorbell cameras, the options are a bit limited. If you’re interested in using a doorbell that is NDAA compliant and works well with SSS, you may have to compromise on some features or explore options that are designed for integration with third-party apps. Unfortunately, a fully functional NDAA compliant doorbell that works seamlessly with Synology might not be readily available.

If you decide to go with Reolink, just keep in mind the potential limitations with features like 2-way audio. It’s a balance between cost and functionality.