Cloud video surveillance, simply stated, means all your surveillance footage is cloud based and delivered as a service over the internet. Until very recently, video surveillance systems were primarily used as a crime prevention tool. Today, however, applications are much more diverse. For example, they include proactive monitoring, observation of health and safety protocols, false claims and fraud protection, and many more.
As the customers’ requirements evolve and change, so should the delivery of video surveillance. Read on to learn why swapping to a cloud video surveillance system may be the best option for both you and your customers.
Cloud video surveillance benefits for security professionals
Cloud is a win-win for both security professionals and their customers. Let’s begin by outlining the benefits of cloud video surveillance for you as a security professional.
1. Reduced risk of data loss
First and foremost, having a cloud video surveillance system bypasses recorders’ physical vulnerabilities by automatically saving the video footage to the cloud. In other words, if the recorders get damaged, or if they malfunction or fail in any way, the video footage is still accessible because it has been backed up in the cloud. Some cloud providers also offer an additional source of local storage. For example, Videoloft’s Cloud Adapter, a bridging device between the CCTV equipment and the cloud, serves as a secondary backup in case there is an issue with your network or internet connection.
2. System’s health monitoring
Cloud video surveillance systems are better at alerting you of any issues with the video feeds or other system components. While this can also be set up using traditional video surveillance systems, it is far more complex to set up. With a cloud system like Videoloft with its live camera health monitoring feature, both you and your customers are immediately notified if a camera goes offline, thus helping to reduce the downtime and ultimately increasing the overall security. In addition, remote health checks are becoming increasingly more important in the Covid-19 world, as getting to the site can be potentially difficult.
3. Recurring monthly revenue opportunity
One of the main benefits of cloud video surveillance for security professionals is that it allows you to add a new stream of recurring monthly revenue (RMR) to your business. Joining Videoloft’s partner program is free and also comes with a free white labeling option. and in addition to the RMR opportunity, Videoloft can also save you the hassle associated with monthly subscription billing. In other words, Videoloft can manage your customers’ recurring payments and pay your commission at each renewal if that is your preferred method. Alternatively, Videoloft can invoice you for the trade list price and you can charge your customers.
4. Saying yes to customers requesting offsite storage
Last but not least, if your customers ask you for cloud backup, you are able to offer it to them. The customers have begun to realise the advantages of cloud for their security needs. Cloud video surveillance companies like Videoloft offers an extensive range of features such as video analytics which can turn even basic CCTV systems into intelligent ones. With increased demand for cloud you’re likely to get asked for it more often. Therefore, the sooner you add it to your offering, the better.
Cloud video surveillance benefits for your customers
There are also many benefits of cloud video surveillance for the end users and not just for the security professionals. Let’s explore the most commons ones.
5. Centralised remote access to all footage
For the customers, the main benefit of cloud video surveillance is its convenience. Users are able to watch live feeds as well as recorded video directly from their smartphone. They have 24/7 access to the footage, from anywhere and at any time. This is not only convenient for your customers, but also reassuring, as they are always able to monitor their cameras. In addition to easy access to the cameras’ footage, cloud video surveillance allows for easy video playback. Users can replay, share or download recorded motion events straight from the mobile app.
6. Real time alerting through mobile app
With a cloud video surveillance system, your customers can be instantly notified if motion is detected on any of their cameras. Furthermore, with Videoloft users can also set up motion detection zones as well as cameras’ motion sensitivity. They also have the option to set up scheduling of when cameras record and when alerts occur. The ability to remotely control their cameras through their smartphones is yet another convenient feature for your customers.
7. Flexibility and scalability
Cloud video surveillance systems are more flexible than the traditional security systems. For example, if your customer requires more storage, you can easily adjust the storage retention period. All you need to do is upgrade (or downgrade) their storage plan, depending on their requirements. In addition, cloud based systems don’t require extensive on-premise equipment. This makes them inherently more scalable with no need for complex on site installations.
8. Increased cyber security
Contrary to the common misconception of the cloud not being secure, it is actually quite the opposite. Firstly, cloud video surveillance systems don’t require port forwarding, which eliminates a big security risk. In addition, hardware is out of date the minute it’s shipped from a factory, whereas cloud providers remotely update the cloud systems continuously. Further security measures will depend on the cloud provider. For example, in Videoloft’s case footage is saved to Amazon Web Services (AWS), one of the largest cloud providers in the world. Furthermore, all video is saved using 256-bit encryption is used to saved the video and is transmitted over encrypted TLS (HTTPS) channels. Both you and your customer can rest assured the footage is secure in transit and at rest.
The future of video surveillance is in the cloud
With increased security, ease of use and remote access it is understandable cloud video surveillance systems are a better alternative to traditional systems. Add to that simple installation and minimal cost, and it’s no wonder the future of CCTV is in the cloud. With Videoloft you can bridge the gap between on-premise security systems and the cloud at 4K resolution.
Are you a security professional looking to add cloud to customers’ security systems? Learn more about our free partner program for security installers, integrators and dealers.
