Why the Cloud Makes Sense for Physical Security

Leveraging the-cloud for physical security can result in a plethora of benefits. For instance, video footage in the cloud will have expanded storage. Increased flexibility can also be achieved, thanks to easy access to your cloud archive, regardless of bandwidth demands or connectivity. If your cameras or the disk of your cloud connectors are damaged or stolen there is no need to worry about losing your security data with the cloud storage solutions that are being offered.

On top of that, unusual or suspicious activity can be automatically saved to the cloud by utilizing machine learning-based smart recording. In a nutshell, cloud storage simplifies video security storage by granting the ability for you to set up and access footage from anywhere at anytime. Smart technology arms your team with the tools needed to store what is most important and when your network is the quietest.

On top of that, unlimited storage options allow for scalability by archiving the footage in cloud storage platforms or on an existing local file system.

Now that we have a good overview of the benefits of cloud for physical security, let’s take a closer look at what exactly it means to be “cloud” functional. If an interaction with an on-premises video recorder, firmware server, or management server is needed for the camera to function, it can’t be considered cloud-native. Plugging in the security camera should result in an automatic connection to the cloud without any requirement for on-premises hardware or software. In addition, being multi-tenant, immutable, and highly scalable with available compute resources in numerous geographic locations are all qualifiers (and benefits) of true cloud-native services.

Real-time feature updates should be delivered without any effort on the customer’s end and there will be no need for management software installations. The final, and most straightforward qualifier for being cloud-native involves looking at the type of network required of the users and camera alike. With cloud functional video security systems, there are no unique network settings or VPN needed. To interact with the security camera, the end-user simply uses the internet to sign-in to the secure cloud interface.

The reasons to adopt cloud video security can span many departments of your organization. The ability to bolster physical security proactively will appeal to security professionals. Real-time alerts and anomaly detection will grant your team the opportunity to stay on top of security threats, prior to them becoming incidents. Fast searching with strong accuracy across the entire deployment can become a reality when it comes to improving your forensic investigation efficiency.

Easy access to your system from anywhere and the capability for simple and secure sharing of live or recorded video with the authorities are also benefits of using the cloud. Business operations managers will enjoy the cloud for the streamlined business functions, paired with an improved situational awareness. Smart maps can be utilized to understand hot spots or high traffic areas. 

Occupancy and shift scheduling can be managed, and people and vehicles can be monitored and counted, accordingly. Cloud video security can also be very helpful in managing stakeholder expectations. IT security managers will be able to leverage simple and secure video surveillance. Scalable and simple management with group configuration policies along with the ability to easily add cameras in minutes go a long way towards creating an end-to-end smart video security solution.

Cloud for physical security is often secure by default with automatic software updates and performance reviews in addition to always-on encryption for recordings. Full compliance is easier than ever to achieve for HR managers, better enabling them to investigate liability claims, malpractice, or slip-and-fall accidents, as part of an effort to ensure a positive business reputation. The cloud also makes it possible to optimize workspace and meeting room use while simultaneously enforcing any social distancing policies that may be in place.

Cloud-based AI video management platforms, such as Ava Aware, provide an open, scalable, secure, and user-friendly system which leverages integrated machine learning capabilities. Video feeds from all cameras can be analyzed in real-time, all the time. Administrators can create rules so that instant alarms are sent when an object or event meets specific, admin-defined criteria.

Significant time can be saved by quickly searching for specific people, vehicles, events, or objects – allowing users to locate specific incidents in matter of moments, compared with what once took hours of intensive review of video footage. A 360-degree outlook of the environment is made possible by leveraging open API and connecting it to existing sensors while also being granted control of dashboards, systems, communication systems, or external viewers.

In the case of Ava Aware, a simple web-based interface assists users in managing all their devices and security on both Android and iOS compatible apps that can be accessed without additional plugins or configurations from anywhere. AI video management has applications for large deployments, small deployments, and distributed enterprise installations.

Cloud security continues to quickly gain momentum for many applications and the numbers support the decision to make the move. According to OpsRamp, using cloud video surveillance will result in a 30-50% yearly operational savings over traditional, on-premise video security storage and management systems.

Additionally, Ava Smart Search has reported 90% less time spent on investigations, and SINTEF found a 10x increase in operator efficiency. If these numbers sound appealing and you are ready to consider moving to the cloud, you’re not alone.

That said, be mindful that not all cloud-native security services are created equal. Be aware and take the time to confirm that the service is open, meaning that it can be used seamlessly with other third-party cloud services. It is widely agreed upon that the ability to connect with other applications and interact through open API’s is a feature of the best-in-breed cloud applications.

ACP CreativIT has experts who would be happy to help your business deploy a cloud-native video surveillance solution to safeguard your property, data, and people proactively. Contact us to talk to one of our experts today.