Cloud security cameras provide people with a way to instantly set up a surveillance system with little upfront cost.
These cameras are different from wired or even traditional internet protocol (IP) cameras. While their setup is simpler, there are cons along with the benefits to having your video feed hosted in the cloud.
With cloud cameras growing in popularity for a variety of applications, here, we review the pros and cons of such a system for your video surveillance.
Pro: Easy to Use
One of the major pros of cloud security cameras is that they are very easy to use and install. Even people who have limited knowledge of cameras or technology can install the system and begin using it in minutes.
The software of the camera simply needs to connect to a wireless network to begin transmitting video, and people can easily manage or view the video feed from their smartphone, tablet, or computer.
Cloud security cameras also minimize the need for any external hardware, giving users a minimalistic arrangement and cutting down on maintenance and IT attention. These wireless video solutions minimize your upfront investment into surveillance technology [1].
Con: Slow Down Your Connection
Since cloud cameras are continuously transmitting data over the internet, some business owners have concerns over data usage. For some companies without the appropriate network infrastructure, cloud video solutions have the potential to slow down their internet connection.
For businesses in more rural areas or with limited connection, cloud solutions may not even be an option. Connectivity also plays a role in where you put the camera—the further away from your wireless router, the more trouble the device could have connecting.
However, there are many things to consider when using cloud security cameras, particularly when it comes to your connectivity. With the right setup, cloud solutions are possible without overloading your networks [2].
Pro: Flexible Solutions
Cloud security cameras aren’t only affordable and accessible—they give people a better user experience and an easy way to adjust their surveillance according to their needs.
These cameras are able to be accessed from anywhere with an internet connection, and they’re scalable, allowing you to add more cameras or scale back as needed without needing to purchase additional equipment for each camera.
The flexibility cloud video solutions provide is ideal for business owners who want minimal network maintenance without compromising on video storage. And, since security is always evolving as a company’s needs change, cloud security cameras make the cut [3].
Con: Compliance Concerns
With all the benefits they offer, cloud security cameras do pose a concern for compliance regulations. These cameras are portable, and therefore vulnerable to theft. For some companies, meeting industry compliance standards won’t be possible for cloud security cameras without professional intervention.
As these cameras are transmitting data over the internet—and their setup is simple enough—there’s more risk that your data could be hacked. Cloud surveillance requires extra precautions over a traditional security camera setup, with two-factor authentication being a baseline for an added layer of security.
Compliance is especially a concern for companies that handle sensitive information, such as healthcare data or customer payment information. Cloud security devices will require continuous assessment for legal implications and emerging threats [4].
Are Cloud Security Cameras Right for Your Business?
At Surveillance Secure, we know that every business’ unique security needs means no two solutions will be the same. We can help you determine if cloud security solutions could benefit your business and help you invest in a setup that makes the most sense for you. Contact us today at (877) 388-1248 to learn more about cloud video surveillance from our professional team!
Sources:
- https://www.researchgate.net/publication/285011991_Cloud_Computing_Security_Issues_and_Challenges
- https://ipvm.com/reports/bandwidth-tutorial-for-ip-video-surveillance-systems
- https://pdfs.semanticscholar.org/d382/44de489c2478cf723610dbeb9be68822a072.pdf
- https://www.researchgate.net/publication/261435976_Video_surveillance_in_the_cloud-computing
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