The NDAA prohibits the use of equipment and components from specific manufacturers considered to be a threat to national security—primarily those with ties to the People’s Republic of China.

Section 889 of the 2019 NDAA explicitly bans the federal government and its grant recipients from purchasing or using telecommunications and security equipment from a list of restricted manufacturers due to national security concerns. To be NDAA-compliant, security cameras and systems must contain no components from blacklisted companies. 

NDAA compliance is particularly significant for the security industry as it directly impacts IP security cameras. This guide explains why NDAA compliance matters, discusses how it affects IP cameras, and shares a list of NDAA-compliant security systems to consider.

Why NDAA Compliance Matters

Even if your company doesn't directly contract with the federal government, NDAA compliance can impact your business in several ways:

Future Contract Eligibility: Non-compliant systems may disqualify your company from future government contracts or subcontracts.

Supply Chain Security: Using compliant equipment helps protect your organization from potential backdoors or vulnerabilities that could compromise sensitive data.

Risk Mitigation: Compliance reduces the likelihood of needing costly system replacements if regulations tighten or your business pursues government opportunities.

NDAA’s Impact on IP Cameras

The NDAA's impact on security systems is particularly pronounced when it comes to IP cameras, which form the backbone of modern video surveillance networks. The NDAA Section 889 explicitly prohibits federal agencies from purchasing or using video surveillance equipment from certain manufacturers, most notably:

• Hikvision
• Dahua
• Huawei
• ZTE
• Hytera Communications

These restrictions apply not just to the cameras themselves, but also to any systems incorporating components from these manufacturers, including OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) arrangements where banned components might be rebranded.

Who Must Be NDAA-Compliant?

Government agencies, contractors, and organizations using federal grants must ensure all purchased security equipment is NDAA-compliant to avoid legal and financial risks. Companies that work with the government—directly or indirectly—must use NDAA-compliant security systems to remain eligible for contracts and funding. Enterprises and businesses choosing NDAA-compliant security solutions demonstrate a commitment to data protection and regulatory standards, reducing the risk of compromised systems.

Steps to Ensure Compliance

When evaluating your current system or planning an upgrade, work closely with security integrators who understand NDAA requirements. Request documentation certifying that all components meet current standards. Remember that compliance isn't just about the visible cameras—it extends to servers, software, and other infrastructure elements.

Companies With NDAA-Compliant Systems

If you need NDAA-compliant security systems, consider the following manufacturers:

• Lumana
• Cisco Meraki
• Avigilon
• Verkada
• Rhombus
• Bosch Security Systems
• Hanwha Techwin America
• ACTi Corporation
• Digital Watchdog
• Pelco
• Vivotek
• Mobotix
• Axis Communications

By choosing NDAA-compliant security cameras and systems, organizations ensure legal compliance, protect sensitive data, and invest in secure, high-quality surveillance technology free from geopolitical risks. 

Explore Lumana’s commitment to trust and compliance or schedule a demo today!

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