Install an Xfinity Camera outside

Install your Xfinity Camera on the outside of your home using best practices techniques.


Want a pro to do it? Our technicians can professionally mount your camera outside if preferred. Contact us to schedule an appointment.

What you'll need:

• The compatible camera(s) paired and ready to install 
  • Note: xCam3 cameras don't support outdoor installation.
• The screws and anchors that are appropriate for the mounting surface
• A screwdriver
  
  

Tools typically used, depending on location:

• A drill
• A 5/8-inch masonry or wood drill bit
  • The drill bit must be long enough to drill through the exterior and the interior wall
  • This will drill the hole to run the camera cable inside
• A 1/8-inch wood drill bit (pilot holes for included screws)
• A 1/4-inch masonry or wood drill bit (holes for included anchors)
• Silicone sealant to seal the entry hole against moisture
• A hammer
• A ladder or step stool

If you need to extend the cable, you may also need:

• RJ45 coupler, rated for location
• Cat5e Ethernet cable, up to 50 ft. with connectors

Before you begin

• Know your local laws.
  • Comply with all local regulations and applicable building codes.
• Work safely.
  • Follow the tool manufacturer's recommendations on best safety practices.
    • Don't drill in wet conditions.
    • Avoid drilling through door or window frames.
    • Don't drill into siding during sub-freezing weather as it may cause cracking.
    • Don't drill into gutters.
    • Take care to not staple through cables and wires.
    • Leave plenty of space between the camera wire and high voltage lines.
• Pair cameras prior to mounting. 
  • Follow these instructions to pair your cameras and to make sure their power adapters are in range of your WiFi. Plug each camera in and try streaming video before you mount.
• Power adapter must be plugged in indoors.
  • The power adapter provides the camera’s connection to WiFi and must be plugged in inside your home as it is not weatherproof.
    • Be aware — plugging a power adapter into an outdoor plug in a waterproof enclosure can severely impair the camera's WiFi performance.
• Plan the cable path.
  • Plan and measure the path from the camera to the wall outlet.
    • Windows and doors are useful reference points when measuring indoors and out.
    • Holes should be drilled at least eight inches from corners.
    • If you're going to secure the cable to the inside walls or baseboard, include the path in your measurements.
    • If the path is longer than 12 ft. you will need additional cable and couplers. Make sure they are rated for the location where they will be used (indoors or outdoors).

Picking a location

• Find proper shelter.
  • Keeping your lens clear is critical for a clear picture.
    • If your home has an overhang that will provide shelter from the weather it will minimize rain or snow sticking to the camera's lens.
    • Installing it beneath an overhang may also provide shade to help keep the camera within an optimum operating temperature.
• Install cameras 8-10' from the ground. This height is low enough to capture fine details but high enough to be out of easy reach of thieves and vandals.
  

  
  
  

• Don't point cameras directly at the sun.
  • Bright light causes glare and high contrast in your footage and makes it hard to see what's going on. Think about the sun's movement and angle your cameras for indirect light.

Installing your cameras

Don't sweat it! If at any point you'd rather switch to a pro install, you can contact us to schedule an appointment.

1. Use a 5/8-inch drill bit, drill at a slightly upward angle through the exterior wall until you are through the interior wall. Even though you will seal around the cable, this is extra insurance to prevent moisture from penetrating your walls.
   • Notes: Be aware of what could be hidden behind the wall, such as electrical wiring or a water pipe.
   • Use a hammer drill for brick, stucco or concrete and drill through the mortar, if possible.
2. Thread the camera cable through the hole.
3. Plug the camera cable into the power adapter and wait for the camera to come online. The camera light will change to solid blue. This can take up to three minutes.
4. Verify that you can view the live stream on the Xfinity Home app.
5. Mark and drill two holes to secure the camera to a flat surface.
   • Use a 1/8” bit for pilot holes if only using the included screws.
   • Use a 1/4” bit if using the included anchors (e.g., mounting to masonry).
6. Mount the camera securely using the included anchors (optional) and screws.
   
   
   
7. Use the app to view the camera stream and adjust the camera angle, if needed.
8. Seal the exterior hole with silicone sealant.
   
   

Note: Optionally, you can run the cable down the interior wall or the baseboard and use the included Cat5 cable clips to secure the wiring. Unplug the camera's power adapter before completing this step.