ZoneMinder Forums

Hi, I have been thinking of using Zoneminder with a security camera, but I am wondering whether I would need my laptop, where Zoneminder is installed, permanently turned on? I mean so that it is in 24/7 contact with the server, especially for motion detect. Also, is there a reasonably straightforward guide to installation and setting up? Thanks.

You would be better off to use an old desktop for a Zoneminder server. The hard drives are more robust and the hardware better suited to an always on PC. See the Zoneminder WIKI for install instructions. There are even a couple of scripts that will install everything you need!