A network video recorder (NVR) is a specialized computer system that includes a software program that records video in a digital format to a hard disk. An NVR contains no dedicated video capture hardware. However, the software is typically run on a dedicated device, usually with an embedded operating system. Alternatively, to help support increased functionality and serviceability, standard operating systems are used with standard processors and video management software. An NVR is typically deployed in an IP video surveillance system.
A digital video recorder (DVR) is an electronic device that records video in a digital format to a Hard disk. The term includes set-top boxes with direct to disk recording. Personal computers are often connected to video capture devices and used as DVRs; in such cases, the application software used to record video is an integral part of the DVR. Many DVRs are classified as consumer electronic devices; such devices may alternatively be referred to as personal video recorder.
