Free video capture software perfect for CCTV, webcam capture and home surveillance.
iSpy is a free video capture tool which works well with webcams and other input devices connected to your computer.
Many programs in the category of video capture don't even come close to the usefulness of iSpy and indeed this app contains more features for free than many others do for a price-tag.
The interface of this application isn't the most beautiful and we're sure it could use some work, but the overall functionality more than makes up or what it lacks in terms of eye candy.
iSpy can be easily configured to work with multiple different video input sources, though the most popular would probably have to be its webcam capture feature which is often used for home surveillance or as a CCTV. The configuration options include a lot to work with, but once you're comfortable with iSpy's main purpose, they aren't difficult to understand.
As a program that is excellent for remote monitoring, you can also embed the webcam stream on a web page if you desire. You're likely going to have to have a static IP or some kind of dynamic DNS service setup.
Overall, iSpy can do a lot but its vast set of features and powerful abilities mean it uses a lot of system resources.. though still recommended.
The user guide on their web site is very comprehensive and helpful.
Features of iSpy
- Alerts: Send email/SMS/Twitter/etc. notifications.
- Audio Detection: Detects sound and triggers alerts.
- Event Triggers: Automatically triggers events based on alert conditions.
- Hotkeys: Use hotkeys to control iSpy.
- Mobile App: View camera feeds on iOS/Android devices.
- Motion Detection: Detects movement and triggers alerts.
- Multi-Language Support: Supports multiple languages.
- Multiple Cameras: Monitor multiple cameras simultaneously.
- Network Support: Supports IP, Webcams, USB cameras, TV tuners, etc.
- PTZ Control: Pan, tilt and zoom camera control.
- Password Protection: Secure iSpy with a password.
- Plugins: Extends functionality with 3rd-party plugins.
- Recording: Captures video/audio recordings.
- Remote Access: Monitor cameras remotely via the web.
- Scheduling: Automatically starts/stops recording at scheduled times.
Compatibility and License
iSpy is provided under a freeware license on Windows from video capture software with no restrictions on usage. Download and installation of this PC software is free and 7.2.6.0 is the latest version last time we checked.
What version of Windows can iSpy run on?
iSpy can be used on a computer running Windows 11 or Windows 10. Previous versions of the OS shouldn't be a problem with Windows 8 and Windows 7 having been tested. It's only available as a 64-bit download.
Filed under:
