With the rise of big data over the last decade, increased storage requirements have created a need for a more economical and manageable data solution. And, when you consider the cost of owning and managing a proprietary data center and overseeing the personnel needed to maintain it, it’s no wonder why there has been so much interest in a move to the cloud.

We've explored the different types of cloud deployments and deployment strategies for your physical security technology, but now let's look at the key benefits of migration.

Here are five key benefits to consider:

Centralization
With just an internet connection, the user has access to their information at any time from any device versus having limited access from a single site source.

Scalability
The archiving of data, especially security video files, requires a significant amount of storage. For proprietary systems, this could mean acquiring and maintaining additional servers in anticipation of future needs. However, by incorporating the cloud, you can quickly scale resources and storage to meet business demands without having to invest in physical infrastructure. By the same token, you can quickly scale down if resources are not being used.

Cybersecurity
By following the right security protocols both internally and externally, moving to the cloud can improve data protection. Centralizing data reduces the footprint, while encryption and regular vulnerability testing strengthens protection.

Resiliency
Many companies operating their own systems and storing data locally must take security systems off-line to perform routine security patches and software updates. But with the cloud, redundancy is built in with automatic data back-ups, software updates, and security program patches without losing any data or compromising the integrity of the system while these processes are being completed.

Another resilient feature relates to disaster recovery. Storing data in the cloud rather than locally can help prevent data loss in the event of an emergency, such as hardware malfunction, malicious threats, or even simple user error.

Cost effectiveness
On-site servers and the infrastructure to support them require a significant amount of upfront and ongoing costs. According to a recent article by Eagle Eye Networks, it is estimated that the potential lifetime savings is between 20-50 percent compared to the costs associated with hosting/managing on-site.

Local servers also require proprietary IT staff or expensive vendor service agreements to maintain them. By moving to the cloud, management of in-house IT personnel gives way to the cloud host or integration company. With the right host, the cloud enables companies to streamline and improve security system management and create a proactive and reliable data strategy that mitigates risk and reduces operating costs. Some hosts even offer discounts or will lock subscription costs if you consider a multiyear relationship over an annual contract.

And while these benefits may catch your attention, it’s important to also consider the drawbacks or potential vulnerabilities associated with the cloud. By seeing the big picture, you can make the right decision for your business, its operations, and people.

This blog is intended to be one of a series of blogs on cloud vs. on-premises physical security systems. But, if you’d like a full guide to cloud-based physical security system hosting and management, download our whitepaper here.