How should you be storing your CCTV recordings, on site or via cloud storage?
Sometimes, security professionals have a tendency to overlook some of the most important aspects of security. Placing your entire focus on the camera technology and not assessing your backup storage needs is one such mistake. Traditionally, CCTV recordings have been stored on site through the use of multiple large hard drives. Nowadays, cloud storage is a realistic and potential option for many CCTV system owners. What exactly is the difference and why might one option be better for you?
What is On Site Storage?
On site storage typically involves multiple large hard drives. They are known as NVR’s (Network Video Recorder) or RAID (Redundant Array of Independent Disks) storage devices. Both essentially store video images onto hard disk drive components. The good part about this is that you have a physical copy on hand, which gives some people a better sense of security as you’re able to physically lock your hard drives up. Still, this does mean all of your CCTV recordings are stored in one place and, unless you have the time, money, and resources to create backups of everything, that can be a worrying concern for some owners of CCTV security systems.
What is Cloud Storage?
Cloud technology is when data is saved virtually over the internet, allowing for easy access and shareability. Many people are already using cloud storage whether they realize it or not–for example, your phone may automatically store photos you take onto the cloud. The largest benefit of cloud storage is that you can easily access your files anywhere, meaning you don’t need to be near a physical hard drive to monitor your CCTV recordings. Plus, cloud storage makes for a much more reliable system, as you won’t ever have to worry about hard drive failures or possible electrical failures.
Which Suits Your Needs?
Cloud storage is usually preferable for any site that has more than 2 or 3 cameras, as the more cameras you have, the more space you need to physically store all those CCTV recordings. It’s also more cost effective the more cameras you install, as it makes for easier installation and less initial setup costs. Lastly, if security truly is a concern for you, cloud storage is more secure than on-site storage. Someone could potentially break into your facility and steal or destroy a hard drive containing CCTV recordings but the cloud offers no such risk. But these benefits can be offset by the amount of storage you will need and then pay for, so you should weigh the pros and cons of both solutions so see what’s right for you. We can help!
Get in Touch with FiberPlus
FiberPlus has been providing data communication solutions for over 25 years in the Mid Atlantic Region for a number of different markets. What began as a cable installation company for Local Area Networks has grown into a leading provider of innovative technology solutions improving the way our customers communicate and keeping them secure. Our solutions now include:
- Structured Cabling (inside and outside plant)
- Electronic Security Systems (Access Control & CCTV Solutions)
- Distributed Antenna Systems
- Public Safety DAS
- Audio/Video Services (Intercoms and Display Monitors)
- Support Services
- Specialty Systems
- Design/Build Services
FiberPlus promises the communities in which we serve that we will continue to expand and evolve as new technology is introduced within the telecommunications industry.
Have any questions? Interested in one of our services? Call FiberPlus today 800-394-3301, email us at info@fiberplusinc.com, or visit our contact page. Our offices are located in the Washington, DC metro area, Richmond, VA, and Columbus, OH. In Pennsylvania, please call Pennsylvania Networks, Inc. at 814-259-3999.
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