Technology Guidelines for Webcam Services
Management of Webcam Services
SUNY Plattsburgh’s public webcam services on campus are managed by Information Technology Services, through our computing systems and desktop support helpdesk.
Rationale & Details
Webcam services guidelines address network bandwidth issues, webcam security, and the installation scope. Because streaming webcams have the potential for saturating outgoing bandwidth, they can interfere with the college’s ability to provide essential technology services to its constituents. Therefore, we strive to eliminate or reduce problems by setting bandwidth restrictions on webcam streams that are served directly from the main campus web server. Webcam services guidelines govern this management process.
Due to potential network bandwidth issues, webcams discovered outside of CSDS oversight will be immediately disabled from the campus network.
Installing Webcams on campus
All proposals for installing campus webcams are required to begin with completion of the ITS Technology Project Origination Form. Learn more about the proposal process.
All webcams will be configured as bandwidth allows; this might mean that full-motion cams may not be available or that cams will be set to refresh frames every few seconds.
Bandwidth and staff resources for webcam services cannot be guaranteed. Network Operations reserves the right to reallocate bandwidth or disable webcam services impacting the campus network. CSDS reserves the right to decrease or discontinue the availability of webcam support based on staffing availability.
The department or unit requesting the installation of the webcam is responsible for all labor and materials costs associated with the installation, maintenance, and replacement of the cams.
The camera is to be placed in public view (as opposed to hidden and/or spy cameras). The requesting entity must make sure the placement does not violate any applicable law or campus policies.