When you invest in a physical security system, one of the top items to consider is whether you want the data that is captured and stored to be housed at your site or retained in the cloud. Tele-Rad partners with Avigilon, a leading provider of physical security solutions, to offer both types of these solutions. We have access control and surveillance cameras installed throughout our facilities so we can demonstrate it for you in our Grand Rapids experience center, at your operations site, or at any of our company locations. Stop by or schedule an appointment to see it for yourself! We understand that there are benefits and drawbacks with either data storage option, so we will lay out both of your options here to help you make an informed decision.
Comparing the Options
An on-premise solution is housed in a physical location – generally in the same building as the security systems. Recorders, or on-prem servers, capture and store data from security cameras, access control systems, sensors and alarms transmitted over an internal network. We partner with Avigilon to offer their Unity solutions for centralized and scalable on-premise video security.
Cloud security systems capture and store sensitive data in a secure data center in the cloud as the data is transmitted over the Internet. Security teams can access the data via the Internet and review it on a variety of fixed and mobile devices, either on the premises or remotely. When it comes to cloud-based camera solutions, our team works with Avigilon Alta, an end-to-end cloud security suite, equipped with AI-powered analytics and fully integrated technology.
Unified voice, data, video and analytics
Five Factors to Consider
Now that we know a bit more about the options, let’s dive into what we consider to be the top five factors to consider when determining which solution is right for you.Â
- PHYSICAL SPACE: One of the most important differences between the on-premise and cloud-based options is the location of infrastructure. It is best to pick a cloud solution if space is scarce as it can free space on the premises for other uses. If you’re in a business where space can be used to generate additional revenue or if you have little space, it is wisest to chose a cloud solution.
- AVAILABILITY OF IT SUPPORT: If the data storage infrastructure is onsite, the business is responsible for management and maintenance. It is best to pick a cloud solution if you have little IT support available. An IT support team will have the skills and knowledge to manage both the equipment and the internal networks, as well as ensuring that the system is always up to date. These solutions also require regular maintenance to ensure reliability, which can be time-consuming for an IT team. One benefit of the cloud solution is that software updates are often included as part of the service covered by a subscription, this can help protect against emerging threats or newly discovered vulnerabilities, without occupying as much of your IT team’s time. However, it’s wisest to chose an on-premise solution if your business wants full control and oversight of their security systems at all time. If your business has this desire and has capacity and access for an IT team, then an on-premise solution makes the most sense.
- NETWORK CONNECTIVITY: To connect individual security and access control components to on-premise storage devices, the installation and maintenance of a secure internal data network is required. It is best to chose a cloud-based option if your network does not have the capability to handle the data or if you would like a more efficient option. To even have the option of using an on-premise solution, your network must have the speed, capacity, and traffic prioritization capability to transmit high volumes of data without delay or loss of image quality. Cloud security systems transmit data directly from individual security devices, this works efficiently to maintain your own internal data. On the other hand, if you are worried about any risks of security breaches during data transmission, it may be best to chose an on-premise solution. Additionally, to use an on-premise solution, your company needs to ensure they hire IT and security teams who will work hard to maintain high security standards, such as setting rules and auditing procedures to minimize the risk of data being compromised.Â
- COST: Initial investment vs. subscription-based costs are generally a big factor in these decisions. A cloud-based solution is the right choice when you would like to pay subscription-based. The subscription includes software updates, system management and maintenance, and usually offers opportunities for cost savings through easier deployment and management systems. Contrarily, on-premise security data systems often require a higher initial capital investment as well as some ongoing costs such as renewal of software licenses, maintenance and repair, and IT costs (like installation of software updates and upgrades).Â
- CAPACITY AND SCALABILITY:Â If you are looking for infinite storage capacity, then a cloud-based solution is right for you. Unfortunately, there may be additional subscription costs with additional data streams, as individual storage limits are determined initially by the type of subscription. That said, tiered storage systems are often available, where non-essential or older data can be stored in lower-cost data archives. If buying an on-premise option, be aware that as security cameras generate large file sizes, on-premise storage systems may reach their limit and expanding the system may require additional investment. Expansion of the security system, such as additional incoming camera streams, may affect the items listed above, such as space, increased need for support and management, and additional cost.Â
If you’re considering investing in one of these security solutions, it’s obvious that you value the safety of your spaces and the integrity of your security data. Make the most of your investment by considering the factors listed above, such as space, cost, availability of network and support, and options for future expansion. Be sure to take a long-term perspective to make the most out of your investment, being sure to balance operational needs and financial considerations.
Have additional questions? Ready to discuss options? Our local team of highly-trained technology consultants are here to work with you! Contact us today!