TL;DR:
Cloud video surveillance is the future – but only if it’s secure. At Videoloft, we’ve built our platform from the ground up with security as the foundation, not an afterthought. From end-to-end encryption, GDPR and NDAA compliance, and AWS-hosted redundancy to customizable retention, unlimited user access, and zero port forwarding, Videoloft gives you the tools to stay secure, compliant, and in control – no matter how large or complex your deployment.
In 2026, enterprise security is no longer about managing servers or replacing NVRs – it’s about scalability, data intelligence, and secure connectivity across every location.
According to Omdia’s latest 2025-26 forecast cloud video surveillance is expected to exceed 60% of the US market by 2026, and by 2027, 70% of large companies will use cloud platforms to speed up business initiatives.
WIth greater demands for scalability, remote access, security and smart analytics, outdated on-premises solutions are quickly becoming obsolete. Cloud Video Management Systems (VMS) offer a more flexible, cost-effective and future-proof alternative – and businesses across the world are taking note.
But with so many options, which cloud VMS delivers the best balance of control, security and scalability? In this 2026 update, we’ll explore what enterprises should prioritize – and how leading providers compare today.
What’s new in 2026
The enterprise video landscape has evolved dramatically in just one year. Five major trends are shaping cloud VMS adoption in 2026:
- Hybrid cloud architecture – enterprises are blending local edge caching with centralized cloud storage to balance bandwidth and compliance needs
- AI and automation – Object recognition, anomaly detection, and video-search by description are becoming standard across platforms
- Cyber security and compliance – SOC 2, ISO 27001 and GDPR alignment are now minimum expectations for enterprise buyers
Together these trend signal that cloud VMS isn’t just a convenience upgrade – it’s a strategic IT decision shaping how enterprises manage, protect and analyze video data.
The growth of cloud VMS in 2026
Cloud Video Management Systems have proven their value at scale – supporting tens of thousands of cameras across multiple locations, with banking grade compliance and security protocols.
In recent years there has been a variety of changes in the landscape driving this shift towards cloud based solutions:
- A growing number of organizations operate across multiple locations
- Since COVID19 hybrid and remote workforces have grown and require anytime, anywhere access
- Increased legislative changes and compliance pressure from insurance firms
- Rising demand for AI driven analytics
- Desire to reduce on-premises hardware footprint and associated costs
As a result, cloud VMS is not just an option – it’s the expected standard for enterprise video surveillance in 2026.
What enterprises should look for in a cloud VMS
Choosing the right platform starts with identifying the features that matter most in 2026:
Scalability and multi-site management
Enterprises often need to manage hundreds of cameras across multiple locations. A good cloud VMS will allow users to view, search, and manage footage from any number of locations – without having to log into separate systems.
Recent research from Videoloft showed that 71% of cameras recording to their cloud VMS were part of multi-location setups, highlighting the growing need for centralized control.
Security and compliance
Banking grade end-to-end encryption, secure user permissions, and regulatory compliance are also of major importance. Leading Video Management solutions should support SOC 2, GDPR and ISO standards.
AI and video analytics
AI driven features like motion detection alerts, license plate recognition, people counting and object recognition can save time and improve incident response. The best cloud VMS platforms prioritize useful, explainable AI – rather than feature overload.
Compatibility with existing hardware
Enterprises don’t always want to replace their entire camera infrastructure – in fact they’d probably actively avoid it! VMS platforms that are compatible with multiple brands, or support ONVIF can reduce the need for expensive overhauls.
Flexible storage plans
Cloud VMS platforms should offer flexible plans – whether 30 days, or 10 years.
In 2024, 41% of Videoloft licenses were for 30-day storage, while long term options (90+ days) are rapidly growing, making up nearly a third of licenses. This signals a rising demand for extended retention in enterprise environments.
Comparison: Top cloud VMS providers for enterprises in 2026
Videoloft – affordable, multi-brand compatibility, built for scale
Videoloft stands out for its multi-brand compatible approach, making it especially attractive for organizations looking to modernize without starting from scratch. It enables businesses to connect existing cameras to the cloud via a lightweight bridging device known as a Cloud Adapter, unlocking features like:
- Centralized management across all locations
- Secure E2E encryption
- AI powered analytics
- Flexible storage plans, from 2 days to 10 years
- Quick deployment with minimal IT involvement.
Importantly, 63% of Videoloft cameras were added after the initial deployment period, showing that most customers expand usage over time – a strong signal of satisfaction and enterprise fit.
Strengths:
- Multi brand compatibility – no vendor lock in
- Fast deployment – plug and play in as little as 5 minutes
- Built for scale – centralized dashboard can support thousands of cameras across any number of sites
- Enterprise focused features – ALPR, People Counting and more
- Flexible cloud storage – 2 days to 10 year plans with multi resolution support
Considerations:
- Requires Cloud Adapter to connect to cloud
- Not a full access control/building management suite
Best fit for: Enterprises with existing camera infrastructure looking for a flexible, scalable and cost-efficient cloud upgrade – without starting from scratch.
Verkada – all in one, proprietary hardware approach
Verkada offers a fully integrated ecosystem of cameras and software, with strong built in analytics. Its appeal lies in the simplicity of managing everything from one provider.
Strengths:
- Polished user interface and strong AI tools
- Simple deployment for organizations starting from scratch
- Hardware and cloud VMS bundled together
Considerations:
- Requires organizations to buy proprietary cameras
- Limited backwards compatibility with existing infrastructure
- Higher total cost of ownership
Best fit for: Organizations open to full infrastructure replacement and who are also looking to integrate other tools such as access control.
Eagle Eye Networks – customizable and feature rich
Eagle Eye Networks are known for their extensive integrations and developer tools, making a good choice for complex enterprise environments.
Strengths:
- Broad compatibility with existing camera systems
- Offers analytics, AI tools and integrations with other systems like access control
Considerations:
- Interface and setup may be more complex for smaller teams
- Costs can scale quickly with advanced features
Best fit for: Enterprises with in-house IT resources and specific integration requirements.
Milestone Arcules – High customizable and deep functionality
Arcules, from Milestone Systems, is designed as a cloud-first alternative to its legacy on-premises offerings. It allows organizations to scale across multiple locations and easily access video from anywhere.
Strengths:
- Native cloud platform backed by an established VMS provider
- Integrates with other tools such as access control systems
- Enterprise grade compliance and security controls
Considerations:
- Limited compatibility compared to other platforms
- More focused on hybrid cloud environments than full cloud-native.
Best fit for: Large enterprises already invested in Milestone’s ecosystem.
Final takeaway
In 2026, the move to cloud video surveillance is no longer just an upgrade – it’s a requirement. Enterprises need solutions that are secure, scalable and compatible with their existing environments.
While each provider brings their own unique strengths, Videoloft distinguishes itself through its unmatched flexibility, rapid scalability and strong post-deployment expansion rates. It offers a rare combination of broad compatibility, enterprise-grade features and simplicity – making it a top tier choice for organizations ready to future -proof their surveillance systems.
Next steps
Get in touch with our friendly, expert team at hello@videoloft.net today and see how our cloud video surveillance solution can enhance your security systems and processes.
Or, if you’re ready to experience the benefits of Videoloft now, just order your Videoloft Cloud Adapter and set up your Cloud Plan, which you can do here.
If you prefer, we are happy to arrange a free proof of concept so you can trial Videoloft for free for 30 days and see what you’ve been missing. We’ll send you a free cloud adapter for testing and provide full technical support.
