Key takeaways
- Cloud-based systems offer the ability to monitor live feeds, review recordings, and manage security settings from anywhere with an internet connection.
- You can reduce expenses associated with on-site hardware, maintenance, and IT support through cloud-based video storage and management.
- Easily add cameras, increase storage, and manage multiple locations from a single dashboard as your security needs evolve.
Security is evolving, and cloud-based security camera systems are at the forefront of this transformation. As you begin to seek more efficient, scalable, and reliable security solutions, video surveillance as a service (VSaaS) is quickly becoming the go-to option.
But what makes cloud-based security cameras and surveillance software a better option than traditional on-premises systems?
In this post, you’ll learn what cloud-based video surveillance software is, how it works, and why it can benefit your daily operations.
This post covers:
- What is cloud-based video surveillance software?
- How does cloud-based video surveillance software work?
- What are the benefits of cloud-based security software?
- Cloud-based video surveillance software market trends
- How ButterflyMX enhances cloud-based surveillance
- Cloud-based video surveillance software FAQs
What is cloud-based video surveillance software?
Cloud-based video surveillance software is a physical security solution that allows you to store, manage, and access video footage remotely through cloud services rather than relying on on-premises hardware. Unlike traditional NVR or DVR systems, which require extensive infrastructure, cloud-based solutions provide flexibility, scalability, and enhanced security without the need for expensive, maintenance-heavy equipment.
With cloud storage for security cameras, you can access real time and archived footage from anywhere, enabling more responsive security measures. What’s more, this approach reduces hardware costs while improving accessibility and ease of use.
How does cloud-based video surveillance software work?
Cloud video surveillance operates by using internet-connected cameras to record and transmit footage to a cloud-based platform. Here, the video footage is securely stored, managed, and accessed remotely. Unlike traditional on-premise systems that rely on local servers or DVRs/NVRs, cloud surveillance eliminates the need for extensive on-site hardware.
Key components of cloud video surveillance include:
- IP security cameras. Cloud-based surveillance systems use commercial IP (Internet Protocol) cameras that connect to the internet via Wi-Fi or Ethernet. These cameras encode and transmit video directly to the cloud storage service.
- Cloud storage & processing. As the standout feature, cloud storage makes sure recordings are encrypted and stored on secure cloud servers managed by your trusted provider.
- Remote access management. You remotely can view live feeds, replay footage, and manage camera settings via a web portal or mobile app. Multi-user access allows you and your teams to monitor locations simultaneously.
- AI features. Advanced cloud surveillance systems use AI-driven analytics for motion detection, facial recognition, license plate recognition, and anomaly detection.
- Seamless integration with access control system. Many cloud-based surveillance solutions integrate with access control systems, alarms, and visitor management software, creating a unified security ecosystem.
What are the benefits of cloud-based security software?
1. Remote access & management
One of the most significant advantages of cloud-based security systems with cameras is the ability to remotely monitor and manage surveillance footage from anywhere. Unlike traditional on-premise systems that require physical access to control rooms or DVRs, cloud-based solutions allow you to stay connected at all times.
Key benefits of remote management include:
- Viewing live feeds and recorded video from any device with an internet connection.
- Receiving instant notifications when motion is detected or an unauthorized entry occurs.
- Adjusting security settings, granting access, or reviewing audit logs without being on-site.
This level of accessibility reduces the need for an on-site security team and enhances operational efficiency. As such, cloud surveillance ensures that security oversight is available 24/7 from any location.
2. Scalability & flexibility
As your operations expand, so do your security needs. Traditional surveillance systems often require costly hardware upgrades and complex installations when scaling up. In contrast, cloud-based video surveillance software allows for seamless expansion without the need for additional on-premise infrastructure.
Key benefits of cloud scalability include:
- Easy camera integration. New cameras can be added to the cloud network without requiring additional NVRs or DVRs.
- Customizable storage options. You can easily increase cloud storage capacity as needed without replacing hard drives.
- Multi-location security. You can manage surveillance footage from multiple properties from a single dashboard.
If you anticipate growth or operate in multiple locations, cloud-based security ensures a hassle-free, cost-effective solution that scales with your needs.
3. Lower costs
Maintaining traditional surveillance systems can be expensive and labor-intensive, requiring regular hardware upgrades, software updates, and manual backups.
Features of cloud-based surveillance service include:
- Automatic software and security updates eliminate the need for manual patching.
- No costly on-premise storage equipment reduces hardware maintenance.
- Minimal IT support is required as cloud providers handle system maintenance.
By outsourcing system upkeep to cloud service providers, you can significantly reduce IT overhead costs while ensuring their surveillance system remains up-to-date. This allows you to focus on core operations while maintaining a robust security infrastructure.
Cloud-based video surveillance software market trends
Cloud-based video surveillance is gaining popularity due to its cost-efficiency, scalability, and advanced security features. Unlike traditional on-premise systems, cloud solutions offer remote access, AI-driven analytics, and seamless integration with smart building technologies, all of which are attractive features for people wanting more efficiency.
Cloud-based surveillance lowers costs by eliminating expensive hardware and IT costs. Furthermore, cloud-based software for video surveillance increases flexibility by making it easy to expand storage and maintain more footage for audits.
Finally, this type of software is attractive to property managers and owners because of it’s enhanced security and cybersecurity protections.
What is the difference between cloud-based and on-premise systems?
How ButterflyMX enhances cloud-based surveillance
ButterflyMX offers a comprehensive suite of smart access solutions that seamlessly integrate with cloud-based video surveillance software. Designed to improve security while maintaining ease of use, ButterflyMX’s ecosystem includes high-quality Security Cameras, Access Control Systems, and visitor management tools, all of which are connected through the cloud for real time monitoring and remote access.
While traditional security setups often require multiple un-integrated systems, ButterflyMX simplifies security by offering an all-in-one, cloud-powered solution.
Here’s how ButterflyMX utilizes cloud-based surveillance to give you better control:
Seamless integration
One of the standout advantages of ButterflyMX is its ability to unify PoE cameras with our Access Control System. By integrating access control with surveillance, you can enhance security without relying on outdated, manual processes.
As a result, this ensures that security personnel and you can monitor who enters and exits a building in real time, reduce unauthorized access, and remotely grant or deny access from your mobile phone or online dashboard. What’s more, pairing your security camera with our cloud-based software means you can link video footage with any entry scenario on your property and save it for future review.
Remote monitoring
ButterflyMX’s mobile app empowers you, security teams, and property owners to view live security camera feeds from anywhere with an internet connection. You can also unlock doors or gates remotely based on visibility from our Video Management System, allowing approved guests or employees to enter securely.
This cloud-based functionality eliminates the need for on-site monitoring stations, making security management more convenient and responsive.
Discover the Dome Camera from ButterflyMX:
Visitor management tools
Beyond surveillance and access control, ButterflyMX’s Front Desk Station adds another layer of security when paired with security cameras.
Features include:
- Pre-screening of visitors through video intercom and access logs.
- Visitor Passes for deliveries and guests, reducing security risks.
- Time-stamped entry logs, making it easy to track visitor movements.
With these tools, you can ensure that only authorized guests enter, improving both security and operational efficiency.
User-friendly security
With over 40,000 five-star reviews, our robust suite of cloud-based products and services helps you protect and monitor your property and simplify and manage your property’s operations all in one place.
By combining cloud-based security cameras with ButterflyMX’s physical security software, you benefit from a non-intrusive, efficient, and modern security solution.
Our user-friendly security services include:
- Tamper-resistant and high-resolution security cameras with 156° wide-angle views.
- Cloud storage for security footage, ensuring video evidence is always accessible.
- No expensive on-premise servers are required, reducing infrastructure costs.
Cloud-based video surveillance software FAQs
- How much does cloud-based video surveillance software cost?
- What is a VSaaS?
- What is cloud video management software (VMS)?
How much does cloud-based video surveillance software cost?
The cost of cloud-based surveillance software varies depending on the provider, number of cameras, storage needs, and features required. Because many companies offer subscription-based models, you’ll likely pay a monthly fee of up to $30 per month per camera.
What is a VSaaS?
VSaaS stands for Video Surveillance as a Service. It is a cloud-based video surveillance solution where security camera footage is stored, managed, and accessed through the Internet rather than on local servers.
Key features of VSaaS:
- Cloud storage. Footage is securely stored in the cloud, eliminating the need for expensive on-site storage.
- Remote access. Users can view live and recorded video from anywhere using a web portal or mobile app.
- Automatic updates. The service provider handles software updates, cybersecurity patches, and system maintenance.
- Scalability. Easily add or remove cameras without investing in additional physical infrastructure.
- Analytics. Many VSaaS platforms offer advanced features like facial recognition, motion detection, and automated alerts.
What is cloud video management software (VMS)?
Cloud video management software (VMS) is a web-based platform that allows users to store, manage, and access security camera footage remotely via the cloud. Unlike traditional on-premise VMS, which requires physical servers for storage and processing, cloud-based VMS eliminates the need for complex infrastructure, reducing maintenance costs and improving accessibility.
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