In 2026, the State of Texas expanded its prohibited technology list, adding new restrictions to security hardware and software affiliated with the People’s Republic of China (PRC) and the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). This has created a strong demand for best commercial security camera brands not on Texas ban list — especially for commercial security projects in Houston and across the state.

For business owners and security professionals, the key concern is compliance without sacrificing performance, reliability, and total cost of ownership. This guide explains which commercial camera manufacturers remain compliant, why this matters, and how selecting the right brand can impact long-term operations.

Before we dive in, remember that equipment decisions should align with broader security strategies. If you need help implementing compliant systems, our Security Camera Installers team in Houston can assist.

In early 2026, Governor Abbott updated the State of Texas’s prohibited technologies list in coordination with Texas Cyber Command. The directive includes additional restrictions on physical hardware, artificial intelligence (AI), and software affiliated with the PRC and CCP.

The official state announcement is available here:
Governor Abbott Updates Texas’ Prohibited Technologies List

What this means for commercial entities:

• Certain manufacturers, particularly those with Chinese ties or affiliations, are restricted.

• This impacts procurement for government, public sector, and compliance-sensitive projects.

• Many private businesses are now adopting the same restrictions to avoid future issues.

Because of this, demand for best commercial security camera brands not on the Texas ban list has risen.

To be considered appropriate for Houston commercial installations — without Texas ban list conflict — a brand typically must:

• Have no listed affiliation with banned entities

• Offer transparent supply chain origin

• Provide secure firmware update channels

• Support NDAA and compliance for enterprise environments

• Manufacture components outside restricted influence

This does not mean the camera must be made in a specific country — rather, the brand and its parent ownership structure must not appear on the restricted list.

For general installation strategy, see our Houston Commercial Security Systems page.

Overview

Axis Communications is widely recognized as a leader in commercial security cameras worldwide. Its products are typically NDAA compliant and not associated with any prohibited entities.

Why It’s On The List

• Strong cybersecurity architecture

• Enterprise-grade performance

• Wide product range for commercial + industrial use

Axis cameras are ideal for:

• Distribution centers

• Office campuses

• Retail environments

• Industrial facilities

Learn more about Axis options here: Axis Security Cameras

Axis remains one of the best commercial security camera brands not on the Texas ban list.

Overview

Hanwha Vision (Wisenet series) offers robust commercial cameras with high-quality imaging and analytics.

Key Features

• Excellent low-light performance

• On-board analytics

• Scalable lineup for enterprise

• Strong documentation and support

Hanwha’s products are widely used in logistics hubs, campuses, and industrial facilities.

Learn more here: Wisenet series

This brand is also considered one of the best commercial security camera brands not on the Texas ban list.

Overview

Digital Watchdog delivers strong performance in mid- to enterprise-level commercial deployments. Its platforms are highly customizable.

Benefits

• DW Spectrum Video Management

• High reliability for long-term installations

• Flexible hardware options

• Good warranty coverage

Explore DW options here: Digital Watchdog Cameras

Digital Watchdog is another trusted brand outside the Texas ban constraints.

Uniview was recently added to the Texas prohibited technologies list due to affiliation concerns.

This means that Uniview should be avoided for projects where compliance is required, especially in governmental or public infrastructure installations.

Avoid selecting Uniview if your system must be compliant with state directives.

Aside from the major brands above, the following options are worth considering:

IP Security Surveillance Systems

Robust IP camera systems built for performance without Texas ban list conflicts:

Cloud Video Surveillance Systems

For flexible deployment with cloud support:

Remote Video Surveillance

For sites requiring real-time monitoring and remote access:

These systems often leverage compliant brands and add additional operational value.

When evaluating a brand:

1. Check corporate ownership and subsidiaries

2. Confirm supply chain transparency

3. Validate firmware source and update control

4. Review manufacturer certifications

5. Ask for documentation during procurement

Proactive verification prevents compliance issues before installation.

Warehouses

Warehouses benefit from high-resolution cameras with analytics, such as:

• Axis high-resolution PTZ cameras

• Hanwha Wisenet panoramic cameras

• Digital Watchdog day/night ready cameras

For warehouse camera integrations, see: Warehouse Security Cameras

Parking Lots

Parking and vehicle zones require:

• License plate capture

• Wide dynamic range (WDR)

• Low-light performance

Brand options include compliant IP systems with LPR add-ons.

Our parking solutions page explains this: Parking lot Cameras

In many compliance-focused projects, NDAA standards overlap with the Texas ban list. Brands that are NDAA compliant typically meet or exceed security expectations for high-sensitivity environments.

For more on compliance selection, see the related article: NDAA Compliant Security Cameras Houston

Security camera systems rarely operate alone. For commercial environments, integration with access control systems enhances security and accountability.

Examples include:

• Brivo access systems

• Credential-based entry logs

• Secure video tagging on access events

Explore access control options here: Houston Access Control Installers

When installing compliant security cameras:

• Perform a full site assessment

• Plan camera placement for optimal coverage

• Choose industry-rated junction boxes

• Run structured cabling for network reliability

• Configure secure storage and remote access

Professional system design and deployment ensures reliability and long-term performance.

If you want expert execution, start with: Houston Security Camera Installers

Selecting the best commercial security camera brands not on Texas ban list is essential for compliance-driven projects in Houston and beyond. Brands such as Axis Communications, Hanwha Vision, and Digital Watchdog provide strong, reliable options for commercial installations while avoiding restricted affiliations.

When planning a project, balancing performance with compliance ensures your system delivers both security and peace of mind.

For professional design and installation, speak with trained experts from Security Camera Installers who understand both compliance and commercial system deployment.