Cloud CCTV

Cloud CCTV Guide: What it is and how it can benefit your business

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In the modern age of security, cloud-based CCTV systems are transforming how businesses and individuals monitor their premises. These advanced surveillance solutions leverage cloud storage to offer scalable, flexible, and remotely accessible options for enhancing security measures. By integrating with the Internet of Things (IoT), cloud CCTV provides real-time data and analytics, making it easier than ever to oversee operations and respond swiftly to incidents. This article explains the technology behind IP camera cloud solutions and its benefits.

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What is cloud-based CCTV?

Cloud-based CCTV is a surveillance camera system with remote server storage for camera footage. This means that unlike traditional CCTV systems users that use local storage you do not need to purchase or maintain the conventional storage hardware, such as network video recorders (NVRs) on site. Upgrades to the video surveillance management software are provided automatically via the cloud ensuring users always have the latest capabilities of the system.

CCTV with cloud storage works by using the latest cameras or cloud connectors to stream footage using the internet. Some security cameras will stream the footage directly to the cloud but this takes up a lot of bandwidth so you may need to increase the number of ports on your network and you could lose footage if your internet connection fails.

Hybrid security cameras, like Avigilon Ava cameras, have built-in camera storage but then back up the recorded footage to the cloud. You only need to stream footage and take up bandwidth on your network if you are reviewing events on the surveillance system. If the internet connection is disrupted you will not lose the footage as it is being stored on the security cameras.

Cloud connecters allow you to use your existing IP cameras but gain the advantages of CCTV cloud storage.

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The key benefits of using cloud-based CCTV

Flexible & Scalable

Cloud-based CCTV allows users to have flexible and scalable security systems without the cost and maintenance of NVRs. Instead you have the benefit of improvements to the video surveillance software automatically. With advanced systems like Alta Aware Cloud Storage you can minimise bandwidth disruptions by scheduling cloud back-ups when network activity is low and set the maximum streaming quality.

Available on any device

The views from your CCTV cameras are available anywhere and at anytime from any mobile device with an internet connection. This means users can manage several sites with ease. You will need to install an app if you want to view the footage easily on a smart phone. The Alta Aware app mirrors its web client allowing you to view live video, triage alarms and manage security.

Choosing Cloud CCTV is ideal if you have multiple sites that you would like to link to a single security system. Equally it would be suitable if you have a small site and limited space for an NVR but still need the most advanced surveillance technology.

Real-time Alerts

You can make your surveillance system more proactive than a conventional CCTV system by receiving real-time and customised alerts.

Secure Storage

Cloud video surveillance is extremely secure as onsite recorders can be susceptible to physical threats, like theft and damage.

Investigate faster

Cloud CCTV offers smart, intuitive search tools that can transform time-intensive review of surveillance footage into fast answers, empowering security operators.

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Keeping CCTV data secure

Cloud CCTV is extremely secure as data is transferred with end-to-end encryption and automatic updates are sent as required to protect the system. It also removes the risk of physical threats associated with an onsite NVR and local camera storage. Ensure you install a fully compliant cloud storage system, such as Avigilon Alta Aware, to be certain data privacy is always maintained.

By storing your footage in the cloud you have a robust backup for your video recordings. The Avigilon Alta solution is built on a hardened Linux platform, so cyber security is designed into the product from the start, not added as an afterthought.

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The Cloud CCTV solution and cameras we offer

Avigilon Alta: Proactive, cloud-native video security from Motorola Solutions.

Avigilon Alta Video: This video management system provides scalable, intelligent, cloud-based security. This will help you gain real-time visibility and insights from anywhere.

Avigilon Alta A5 Dome Camera: This AI-powered indoor and outdoor dome security camera is versatile and robust.

Avigilon Alta A5 Compact Dome Camera: This camera packs powerful security into a discreet package which is perfect for ensuring security in indoor environments.

Avigilon Alta A5 360 Camera: This AI-powered 360 panoramic security camera is ideal for locations that require coverage in all directions.

Avigilon H6A PTZ Camera: This camera empowers you with an unparalleled level of situational awareness. This camera is available via the Avigilon Unity on-premise video management software or the cloud-native Alta Video platform.

Avigilon H6 Mini Dome Camera: Avigilon’s small, yet mighty, H6 Mini Dome Camera brings an exceptional level of protection to indoor spaces with high-resolution images of up to 5 MP and a wide field of view in a compact design.

Avigilon H6SL Camera range: Available as a bullet or dome camera the analytics-enabled Avigilon H6SL range combines versatility and high-performance.

Avigilon H5A Multisensor Camera: The Avigilon H5A Multisensor camera helps ensure your site is covered from all angles by combining the latest and most advanced video analytics and three or four adjustable sensors into one powerful solution.

Avigilon Alt LPR:  If you need to control entry to your property or car park, allow access to only authorised vehicles, or want to ensure that you can track vehicles in a drive-through, then automatic number plate or licence plate recognition (LPR) can help you do this more easily.

Line Crossing Rule: If you want to prevent overcrowding, manage office space or ensure only accredited staff enter protected areas then the Avigilon Alta Video software makes this simple with its line crossing rule.

Avigilon H5A Modular Camera: The Avigilon H5A Modular Camera is designed for areas with limited space or that require a discreet and unobtrusive monitoring solution.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is cloud-based CCTV?

Cloud-based CCTV is a surveillance camera system with remote server storage for camera footage. This means that unlike traditional CCTV systems users do not need to purchase or maintain the conventional storage hardware, such as network video recorders (NVRs) on site. Upgrades to the video surveillance management software are provided automatically via the cloud ensuring users always have the latest capabilities of the system.

How does cloud CCTV work?

CCTV with cloud storage works by using the latest cameras or cloud connectors to stream footage using the internet. Some security cameras will stream the footage directly to the cloud but this takes up a lot of bandwidth so you may need to increase the number of ports on your network and you could lose footage if your internet connection fails. Hybrid security cameras, like Avigilon Ava cameras, have built-in storage but then back up the recorded footage to the cloud. You only need to stream footage and take up bandwidth on your network if you are reviewing events on the surveillance system. If the internet connection is disrupted you will not lose the footage as it is being stored on the security cameras. Cloud connecters allow you to use your existing IP cameras but gain the advantages of CCTV cloud storage.

What are the key benefits of using cloud-based CCTV?

Cloud-based CCTV allows users to have flexible and scalable security systems without the cost and maintenance of NVRs. Instead you have the benefit of improvements to the video surveillance software automatically. With advanced systems like Alta Aware Cloud Storage you can minimise bandwidth disruptions by scheduling cloud back-ups when network activity is low and set the maximum streaming quality.

Cloud video surveillance is extremely secure as onsite recorders can be susceptible to physical threats, like theft and damage.

Cloud video surveillance systems are also available anywhere and at anytime from any mobile device with an internet connection. This means users can manage multiple sites with ease.

Choosing Cloud CCTV is ideal if you have multiple sites that you would like to link to a single security system but equally it would be suitable if you have a small site and limited space for an NVR but still need the most advanced surveillance technology.

You can make your CCTV system more proactive than a conventional CCTV system by receiving real-time and customised alerts.

Is cloud-based CCTV secure?

Cloud-based CCTV is extremely secure as data is transferred with end-to-end encryption and automatic updates sent as required to protect the system. It also removes the risk physical threats associated with an onsite NVR. Ensure you install a fully compliant cloud storage system, such as Avigilon Alta Aware, to be certain data privacy is always maintained.

By storing your footage in the cloud you have a concrete backup.

Can I access my cloud CCTV footage from anywhere?

Cloud CCTV footage can be accessed from anywhere as long as you have an internet connection. You will need to install an app if you want to view the footage easily on a smart phone. The Alta Aware app mirrors its web client allowing you to view live video, triage alarms and manage security .

What happens if my internet connection goes down?

If you have cameras with embedded storage you will not lose footage if the internet connection fails and the CCTV system will continue to function.

How much does cloud-based CCTV cost?

There is an ongoing cost to subscribing to the cloud storage CCTV system. However, this has the advantage of spreading the cost of the cameras and the software over time rather than buying new CCTV IP cameras and NVRs. If you have existing cameras you can connect to the cloud using the cloud connectors. Contact us to find out more about the costs.

How long is footage stored in the cloud?

There can be a variety of duration lengths for how long you can store footage depending on the cloud storage plan required.

Is cloud CCTV compliant with privacy laws?

Yes the cloud CCTV developers ensure the systems comply with data protection and privacy laws. The Avigilon Alta system is compliant with GDPR requirements.

What kind of maintenance and support does cloud CCTV require?

The advantage of cloud CCTV for users is that all updates are provided automatically and support can be provided remotely. Our engineers will provide support on site if required.

How can I ensure I select the right security camera?

We can help you select the right security camera. There are a range of cloud CCTV camera options within the Avigilon Ava range but we can also use other IP camera models and connect them to the Avigilon Alta if needed.

I already have IP cameras, are you able to integrate legacy CCTV systems?

If you have existing IP security cameras we can integrate them into the Avigilon Alta platform by using cloud connectors. All these cameras can then take advantage of the cloud. Legacy analogue systems can be upgraded into IP platforms by installing encoders.

I have a number of sites, can these be centrally managed from one location using cloud CCTV?

Yes cloud surveillance is ideal for managing your security systems from a central location.