While most organizations choose to use and deploy traditional software, servers, and hardware for their video surveillance. (Referred to as “On-Prem” in this article), there is a growing trend toward cloud-based solutions, (Referred to as “VSaaS” in this article). Different schools of thought exist regarding the benefits and shortcomings of VSaaS (video surveillance as a service).
There are many start-up companies providing new VSaaS solutions that are joined by established On-Prem system providers that are now offering a VSaaS in their product lineup.
To complicate things, it has become evident that both new and existing video system providers have a slightly different interpretation of what VSaaS means. There have been many articles that outline the pros and cons of VSaaS, some of which can be difficult to interpret due to varying methods and directions that manufacturers of VSaaS solutions are taking.
In order to determine what solution is right for you, we’ve compiled this overview with a set of definable and non-biased pros and cons. Our goal is to provide you with a trustworthy resource that can help you make the best decision based on your business environment, budget, security goals, and the technology capabilities currently available.
On-Prem vs VSaaS
Let’s begin with outlining the basic differences without the technical nuances and viewpoints of various manufacturers.
While both utilize software, traditional video management software (VMS) solutions are installed on-site whereas VSaaS runs an internet connection to the manufacturer's platform. In the details below we will provide an overview of functionality differences between the two options. Many traditionally “On-Prem” platforms are already working on a path to migrate those systems to a VSaaS solution, so details are changing rapidly. For the most up-to-date information, please contact our team.
Cybersecurity is always a key issue for video surveillance systems. With published vulnerabilities, hacks, and the discovery of bots on the rise, On-Prem and VSaaS solutions will have different approaches to cybersecurity. Those pros and cons are included in the bullet points below.
On-Prem PROS:
- Most cameras & ONVIF components are VMS-supported.
- No subscription management & reoccurring fees are required.
- A deeper level of integration, more application options (e.g. hotkeys, macros, surveillance keyboard support), and layouts for monitoring (e.g. dynamic maps, access control devices, and events) are possible.
- By processing video On-Prem, higher resolution and frame rate video can be analyzed without limitations due to internet upload bandwidth. Depending on the application, this may increase accuracy in event searches, or decrease the number of missed detections due to low frame rate/video quality.
- Not dependant on an internet connection.
On-Prem CONS:
- A larger capital investment upfront is required.
- On-Prem requires manually updating the server and client software, which is can be cumbersome and result in some short system outages.
- Recording hardware (e.g. servers, hard drives) must also be maintained and serviced. Failures of a single server can result in total video viewing and recording loss. Deploying many isolated On-Prem servers across many wide-ranging locations is inefficient and significantly increases initial installation and support costs.
- While some On-Prem solutions offer highly accurate AI-based analytics, these server-based analytics commonly require high-cost GPU and CPU, which adds significant upfront hardware costs. Moreover, some On-Prem analytics are commonly an additional license. These can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars per channel, not included with base On-Prem software.
- System bugs and new features can lag when updates are not regularly performed.
VSaaS PROS:
- No server set up required.
- Video storage can be managed off-site.
- (Hosted) VSaaS offers virtually unlimited video storage capacity by purchasing additional cloud space.
- Firmware and software vulnerabilities can be addressed much quicker and remotely by the VSaaS vendor, without any action required from a user.
- Most VSaaS platforms allow users to access the video from a website without having to set up a VPN or firewall details or enter any local networking information. This makes it easier for users to see their video from wherever they are (and not just within their facilities).
VSaaS CONS:
- The biggest concern is with VSaaS is the bandwidth required to stream video to/from the cloud. Uploading and downloading of live video streaming and clip retrieval on any cloud-based solution will inevitably consume available WAN resources. How much bandwidth is consumed will greatly depend on the architecture of the VSaasS system, resolution and number of cameras in use, as well as the amount of activity recorded by all of the cameras at a given time.
- Narrower user interfaces versus what is possible with an On-Prem solution.
- VSaaS solution offers a limited deep configuration capability.
- Minimal options for advanced user features are available without purchasing additional solutions.
- Camera selection may be restricted especially where video quality is concerned.
ABOUT US
ivelah helps corporations and their facilities with security system requirements. We believe you should be in a position to make the best choices for security system technologies. We uphold these principles by providing you with continued dialogue and consultation, as well as essential information and insight for effective security system provisioning.
With comprehensive designs, scopes, and proposals, complemented by effective implementation strategies, customers can look forward to innovative, “future-proof” solutions.
ivelah is committed to maintaining high standards for integrated security systems, using products that excel in all areas. By utilizing platforms specifically designed to provide situational awareness, we help our clients be better prepared for constant change and increased flexibility.
