A live cam lets you monitor a remote location and communicate with people in real time. This type of technology has exploded with advances in cameras and the availability of higher-quality Internet bandwidth, providing new windows on the world.
You can set up a live cam on your computer or smartphone with free software that comes with most cameras and some third-party applications. Start by downloading the software based on your camera’s make and model, then follow the manufacturer’s or application’s instructions to get the camera connected to your computer. Using USB, you can connect the camera and stream to the web, record video, or use it as a microphone in a teleconference call. Some apps also support multiple cameras and allow you to view up to 4 of them at once.
To keep your live cam in good condition, you’ll need a strong Internet connection and a high-quality camera. A tethered Ethernet cable is the best option, but Wifi can work in a pinch. You should also test your connection before streaming, especially if you plan to do a long live-stream. Blackouts or blank screens can ruin your event.
Watch adorable shelter kittens play on this live webcam, or get a feel for the street life in Amsterdam with a livestream of a busy neighborhood. For the voyeurs among us, Real Life Cam provides an up-close look at the private lives of other (fully aware) people — though some feeds are NSFW. live cam