Many households experience frustrating internet slowdowns due to smart home cameras that continuously upload high-definition video to the cloud. These cameras can consume significant upload bandwidth—up to 16 Mbps for multiple units—leading to network congestion. To mitigate this issue, users can switch to RTSP (real-time streaming protocol) cameras, which stream video directly to a local IP address, thus conserving upload bandwidth. This transition involves setting up a self-hosted backend using open-source software like Frigate NVR, which allows for local processing and storage of video feeds. By creating a dedicated local network for these cameras and configuring them to operate independently from the main internet connection, users can enhance their internet performance and eliminate monthly cloud storage fees. This method not only maintains the security of home surveillance but also optimizes overall network efficiency.