CCTVplanner vs Milestone XProtect
CCTVplanner is a free browser-based CCTV design tool for planning camera layouts. Milestone XProtect is enterprise video management software for recording and monitoring live feeds. Different tools for different stages of your project.
Feature Comparison
| Feature | CCTVplanner | Milestone XProtect |
|---|---|---|
| Data Residency | EU (AWS eu-west, Ireland) | Danish HQ, global AWS/Azure cloud |
| Price | Free tier available | Enterprise pricing (paid licenses) |
| Primary Purpose | CCTV system design & planning | Video management & live monitoring |
| Platform | Browser-based (any device) | Windows desktop application |
| Setup Time | Instant — sign up and start | Hours — server installation required |
| Camera Placement | Drag & drop on maps/floor plans | Not a design tool |
| Field of View Visualization | Yes, with DORI zones | No |
| Floor Plan Upload | Yes | Map views for device management |
| Satellite Map View | Yes, integrated Google Maps | Basic map integration |
| PDF Export | Professional PDF reports | System reports & logs |
| Learning Curve | Minimal — intuitive interface | Steep — requires training & certification |
| Target User | Installers, designers, consultants | Security operators, IT departments |
| Live Video | No (design tool only) | Yes (core feature) |
Why Use CCTVplanner Before Milestone?
Design First, Deploy Later
Plan your entire CCTV layout before purchasing hardware or configuring Milestone XProtect. Visualize camera coverage, identify blind spots, and optimize placement — saving time and money on your Milestone deployment.
Instant Setup, No Servers Needed
CCTVplanner runs in your browser — no server installation, no Windows dependency, no IT department required. Start designing in seconds while Milestone requires hours of server setup and configuration.
Share Designs with Clients
Export professional PDF reports showing camera placements and coverage zones. Present your plans to clients before committing to Milestone licenses and hardware purchases.
Complementary Tools
CCTVplanner and Milestone serve different stages. Use CCTVplanner to design the system, then deploy with Milestone XProtect for live monitoring and recording. They work perfectly together.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is CCTVplanner a replacement for Milestone XProtect?
No. CCTVplanner is a CCTV design and planning tool, while Milestone XProtect is video management software. CCTVplanner helps you plan camera layouts before installation. Milestone manages live video feeds after cameras are installed. They serve different purposes and work well together.
Can I use CCTVplanner to plan a Milestone deployment?
Absolutely! CCTVplanner is ideal for planning any CCTV installation, including Milestone XProtect deployments. Design your camera layout, calculate storage requirements, export PDF documentation, and then configure Milestone with a clear plan in hand.
Is CCTVplanner free?
Yes! CCTVplanner offers a generous free tier with camera placement, FOV visualization, satellite maps, and PDF export. Pro plans with advanced features start at affordable prices. Much more accessible than Milestone's enterprise licensing.
Why plan with CCTVplanner instead of directly in Milestone?
Milestone XProtect is not a design tool — it manages live cameras. Planning in CCTVplanner first lets you optimize camera positions, verify coverage, and present professional proposals to clients before purchasing any Milestone licenses or hardware.
Try CCTVplanner Free
Plan your camera layouts before deploying Milestone XProtect. Design, export PDF reports, and share with your team — all for free.
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