Cloud camera systems store footage remotely and often provide convenient access across locations, but they have recurring fees and depend on internet connectivity for cloud recording. On-site systems store video on equipment at the business, which allows local access and continued recording during an internet outage, but require storage hardware and maintenance. Many IP cameras use Ethernet cabling whether footage is stored in the cloud or locally, so cabling and network capacity should be considered alongside the recording method.
Key Takeaways
- Cloud systems typically charge recurring fees based on the number of cameras, storage, or retention.
- On-site systems require recording equipment and enough local storage for the footage you want to keep.
- Cloud recording relies on internet connectivity; local recorders can keep recording through an internet outage if the rest of the system remains operational.
- Cloud platforms may simplify viewing multiple locations, while multi-site on-premise systems may need more hands-on management.
- Camera cabling depends on the equipment. Many IP cameras use Ethernet, while some existing systems use coaxial cable.
- Confirm how the system handles outages, storage limits, and future expansion before installation.
Security cameras improve your business’s safety by deterring potential criminals. Active cameras produce a great deal of footage, and the business owner must decide where to store this video data. Cloud systems send footage to remote servers, while on-site systems store it on equipment at your facility, such as a network video recorder (NVR) or digital video recorder (DVR).
Each approach has trade-offs in storage, recurring costs, internet use, and management across multiple locations. The best fit depends on how much footage you need to keep, how you plan to access it, and how long you need to keep it.
How Cloud and On-Site Recording Work
With a cloud-based system, cameras send video over the internet to a provider’s remote storage platform. Authorized users can typically view live or recorded footage through an app or web portal. Plans may charge monthly or annual fees based on the number of cameras, video quality, and how long footage is retained.
An on-site system records video to equipment located at your business. The recorder may store footage on internal or connected drives. Staff can access the system locally, and remote viewing may be available if the recorder and network are properly configured.
Some systems combine approaches. For example, a business may keep primary recordings on-site while using cloud access or backup features for selected cameras.
Storage and Retention
Cloud storage reduces the need for your business to purchase and manage recording hardware. Storage capacity and retention periods usually depend on the subscription plan. Before choosing one, find out how many days of video are kept, how factors such as camera count or resolution affect the price, and what happens if a payment or service interruption occurs.
On-site storage gives the business direct control over its recording equipment and retention settings. However, video capacity is limited by the recorder and size of the storage drives. Keeping more footage or recording from more cameras may require additional storage. In addition to taking up space at your facility, the system also needs someone to monitor its condition and budget for maintenance or replacement.
Monthly Costs and Equipment Costs
Cloud systems commonly involve recurring subscription fees. These systems make it easier to start by providing cameras and installation hardware, but the fees continue as long as you use the service. Before signing up, consider the total subscription cost over time, based on the number of cameras and desired retention period.
On-site systems generally involve more equipment costs at the beginning, including recorders and storage drives. Once installed, you won’t have storage subscription costs, but your business must still plan for expenses such as maintenance, repairs, and eventual replacement. Consider the full cost of ownership rather than comparing only the initial installation price or monthly fee.
Internet Dependence
When considering a surveillance system, ask how the system behaves during an outage and whether a failsafe option is available. Cloud recording depends on a working internet connection to send video off-site. If the connection goes down or upload capacity is insufficient, the system won’t be able to deliver footage to the cloud. Some camera systems offer local or edge storage during an interruption, but that feature varies by equipment and plan.
An on-site recorder can continue saving footage locally during an internet outage, as long as the cameras, network, recorder, and power remain operational. Remote viewing, however, may be unavailable until internet service returns.
Managing One or Multiple Locations
Cloud platforms often make it easier to view cameras at several sites through one account or interface, a useful feature for owners or managers responsible for multiple facilities. However, each location still needs dependable internet connectivity, and subscription costs increase with the number of cameras or sites.
On-site systems work well for a single facility with staff who can manage the equipment. Multiple locations require separate recorders and more coordination to view and maintain systems across sites. Many camera systems can be configured for remote access, but it’s easiest to set up this feature as part of the initial project.
Network Cabling: Making the Connection
The choice between cloud and on-site storage does not automatically determine how cameras must be cabled. Many commercial IP camera systems use Ethernet cabling, often with Power over Ethernet (PoE), to carry data and power between cameras and network equipment. The footage may then be stored locally, sent to the cloud, or handled through a combination of both.
Some existing systems use coaxial cable to connect cameras directly to a DVR. This cabling infrastructure may be impractical for a larger system. Cloud systems need sufficient network capacity to upload video, especially when multiple cameras record at high resolution.
Planning camera locations, cable routes, network connections, and the location of recorders or network equipment early makes installation and future service easier. CTM installs both local and cloud-based commercial camera systems in the San Diego area. For more information, businesses should review CTM’s security camera installation services and network cabling services.
Which System Is Right for Your Business?
A cloud system may suit a business that values remote access, centralized management, and less on-site storage equipment. An on-site system may suit a business that wants local control over footage, can manage recording equipment, or needs recording to continue locally during an internet outage.
Before deciding, compare video retention needs, monthly subscription and long-term equipment costs, local internet capacity, outage behavior, remote access requirements, and plans for adding cameras or locations. CTM can help businesses assess camera placement, cabling, and system requirements as part of a commercial installation project. Contact our team to learn more!
FAQs
Is cloud or on-site security camera storage cheaper?
It depends on the number of cameras, desired video retention, equipment costs, and subscription fees. Cloud systems usually have recurring charges. On-site systems require recording and storage hardware, which will need maintenance or replacement. Compare costs over the period you expect to use the system.
Do cloud security cameras require internet access?
Cloud systems need internet connectivity to send footage to remote storage and support remote access. If the connection is interrupted, cloud recording or viewing may be affected. Some systems provide local or edge recording during outages, so confirm whether that feature is included.
Will an on-site system record if the internet goes down?
It can, provided the cameras can still communicate with the local recorder and the equipment has power. Remote viewing may be unavailable until internet access is restored.
Which system is better for a business with multiple locations?
Cloud platforms can make it easier to manage and view cameras across multiple sites from one interface. On-site systems can also be used at multiple locations, but may require separate recorders and additional coordination.
Can a business combine cloud and local recording?
Some systems offer hybrid configurations, such as local recording with cloud access or backup for selected cameras. Available features vary by equipment and provider, so ask how recordings are stored and accessed during normal operation and internet outages.
