A closed circuit television, or CCTV, describes a system that captures and records video on a closed, connected system. This differs from broadcast television in that a CCTV system involves a direct cable or wireless connection between a camera, receiver and recording device, as opposed to a wireless signal publicly broadcast to multiple, properly attuned receivers. CCTV systems are used for surveillance purposes, to increase levels of safety and security.

A CCTV system's most basic purpose is to provide monitoring and surveillance of an area. This surveillance helps to deter illegal activity by offering the threat of prosecution, and documents the activity of those individuals not swayed by the presence of the CCTV system. It also helps to monitor situations, ranging from large gatherings to more personal uses such as elderly patients with health conditions. Constant monitoring allows for immediate alert and response in cases of emergency, or evidence in legal cases.

A basic CCTV system consists of three components: a camera, monitor and recording or storage device. These pieces of equipment connect with coaxial cables or wireless signals, which carry the image data the camera captures for viewing and recording. Different styles and varieties of cameras are available depending upon your specific surveillance needs, including outdoor models, zoom cameras and dome types.