I'd like to put a system in a detached garage and do everything (remote control and viewing including PTZ control) from other computers. Can BI support this? Are there phone clients?
Also, is Linux or another non-windows OS an option?
Yes most here have the BI computer out of the way with no monitor or keyboard or mouse hooked to it and remote into it.
It only has a Windows version. Some have put it in VM or other platforms but it isn't supported that way if problems happen.
There is a phone app (have to purchase separate) but most prefer to use the web based browser viewer that is free and most feel a better experience than the app.
I have three systems at different locations in Canada and the USA, I manage all of them using OpenVPN and the Windows Remote Desktop Client (RDP is only in the PRO and better versions of Windows), there are other remote desktop programs, but I have not tried them as all on my systems are on Windows11 Pro!
Not to be a Contrarian,
I use the BI App 99% of the time with Tailscale Vpn. Works for my needs. I'm not using remote desktop level LAN access, But it's good for what's goin down in my neighborhood. @wittaj is one of the foremost Forum guru's.