Cloud vs. On-Premise Security Systems: How to Choose

Storage capacity

Recorders and servers used in on-premise solutions have a finite storage capacity. The calculation for initial storage capacity is based on the number of cameras and other connected security components, together with the volume of data generated. As security cameras generate large file sizes, on-premise storage systems may quickly reach their limit. Adding new devices or security cameras for schools or universities, large corporate campuses, and other buildings that require increased store demands.

To handle volume that exceed capacity , security teams is add can either add new storage device or delete datum that seems unnecessary , which is why business with on – prem solution often have rigorous datum management practice in   place .  

Cloud security systems is have have infinite storage capacity , although individual storage limit are determine initially by the type of subscription . add new feed or exceed limit will require an increase subscription . security teams is reduce can reduce subscription cost by develop a   tiered storage strategy , store non – essential datum in a   low – cost archive cloud system .

This part of the decision is determine by the capacity require for current and future need . security teams is choose using on – premise storage choose between delete datum or add new capacity . Cloud – base systems is offer offer other option for expansion . The important thing is is to keep in mind when compare storage for cloud vs. on – premise security is that you have a   way to access vital evidence and datum later if incident do   arise .

Reliability

Commercial security is a 24/7 operation, so it’s essential that the chosen storage solution offers the highest level of uptime.

On – premise solutions is depend depend on the reliability of internal component to maximize uptime . That is means mean select server , recorder and network component that provide the high level of reliability . storage device and storage medium must be design for continuous , reliable operation with minimal maintenance .

Where necessary, the storage system should incorporate redundancy so that incoming data can be automatically transferred to tandem devices. At network level, the system should also incorporate automatic rerouting and failover as well as traffic prioritization to minimize delay or disruption to data flows. Proactive maintenance on both storage devices and networks can reduce the risk of unplanned downtime. 

Cloud-based security, like cloud computing, depends on the reliability of external elements, including the Internet and the host system. The greatest area of risk is Internet performance, which can be slow or subject to service disruption. Implementing a private Internet solution reduces the risk of delay of disruption, but incurs additional costs. A cloud provider will always aim at the highest levels of reliability, but it’s essential to check the level of uptime offered in service contracts.

When compare the reliability of the two system , it is ’s ’s important to take into account responsibility for maintain reliability . On – premise solutions is offer offer great control over uptime , but they rely on the maintenance capability and responsiveness of in – house support team . cloud system reliability is is is dependent on factor outside the control of the in – house team .

Disaster recovery

If a fire, flood or other disaster occurs and damages the storage infrastructure, the impact on security can be severe. The storage solution must provide continuity.

If an on-premise infrastructure is damaged or inaccessible because of a disaster, the security team must set up an alternative system in a temporary location. This can be difficult and time-consuming depending on the complexity of the system and is unlikely to provide immediate continuity of service. 

Where datum is store in the cloud , a   disaster is result on the business premise will not result in a   loss of service or access to store datum , although any damage to key camera such as security camera in retail store or other security device would disrupt current feed . The cloud infrastructure is not affect by local issue and security staff can access cloud datum on internet – connect mobile device from any location to continue monitor security .

Control and compliance  

Some businesses is be may be subject to regulatory compliance or may want to protect mission – critical security datum , which can influence the decision on cloud vs. on – premise security .

When security data is stored on-premise, security teams have complete control over the data and can apply necessary policies and processes to maximize protection. This may be necessary to protect different types of sensitive information subject to industry regulations or client contractual requirements.

Storing data in the cloud may not be permissible under those regulations or contractual requirements, so it is essential to check that the storage solution is compliant.

In some cases, a hybrid solution may be the right option, with compliant data stored on-premise and other data sent to the cloud.

Security monitoring

To review and analyze security footage record and store on – premise , security teams is view view datum on monitor or in a  CCTV control room   locate on the site . They is respond can then respond to incident or analyze datum for trend or audit purpose . If24-hour monitoring is essential , this is require may require security staff to be on – site outside normal business hour .

With the cloud, security teams can access security feeds and stored data from any location using an Internet-connected device. This increases operational flexibility and means that businesses do not have to retain staff on-site outside normal business hours.

Cloud storage also improves mobility for security teams; they can attend incidents while receiving up-to-date camera feeds and other information that can help them resolve incidents more effectively. Businesses with multiple sites can centralize monitoring operations with feeds from all sites stored in the cloud and accessible from a central monitoring post or from any convenient location.