Do PoE Security Cameras Record When the Router Is Off?
Whether PoE cameras keep recording with the router off depends on where the NVR, switch and camera network paths actually sit.
PoE cameras can keep recording with the router off if the camera-to-recorder path does not depend on the router. A dedicated NVR with built-in PoE ports is the clearest example: cameras can send video directly to the NVR on its private camera network while internet access and Wi-Fi are unavailable.
Architecture 1: cameras plugged directly into the NVR
If the NVR provides PoE ports, the camera network can be physically separate from the home router. The NVR and cameras need power, but the router is not required for the internal recording path. Remote viewing and phone notifications may stop.
Architecture 2: cameras and NVR on the same Ethernet switch
If both devices are on one switch and already have compatible IP addresses, local recording can often continue even if the internet gateway is unavailable. Whether turning the router completely off breaks the LAN depends on whether that router is also providing DHCP, switching or other required network services.
Architecture 3: cloud cameras
Cloud-first cameras are different. They may keep recording to microSD or a local hub, but cloud history, push alerts and remote viewing usually require the router and internet path.
Test before you need it
Disconnect WAN first, then—if your design allows it—power down the router while keeping the camera switch and NVR alive. Confirm that footage is still written and playable locally. A resilience plan that has never been tested is only an assumption.
See power outage vs internet outage and LAN-only camera architecture.