Does Cloud Storage Really Improve Security Video Reliability?
Installing a number of video cameras around the house offers an extra level of security through a combination of live video feeds and data recording. These days, the big push is to have recorded data stored in the cloud. But why? Does cloud storage really improve security video reliability? That depends on your perspective.
A Popular Security Option
An estimated 42% of all U.S. adults who utilize home security in some form have video surveillance systems in their homes. That amounts to millions of people. Video cameras are an incredibly popular security option because they offer so much. Better yet, wireless technology makes them easy to install for anyone who knows how to use a smartphone and can manage a Wi-Fi network.
The question in so many cases is whether to store video data in the cloud. Most models give consumers a choice. Yet some entry-level cameras – they tend to be the cheapest – only allow local storage. They would be off the list for anyone whose needs demand storage in the cloud.
The Benefits of Cloud Storage
Whether security video reliability is better in the cloud is a matter of opinion. So perhaps the best way to address the question is to go through a list of benefits that come with cloud storage.
1. Data Redundancy
Cloud providers build redundancy into their systems to ensure that customers never lose access to data. This works to the advantage of the homeowner because he does not have to worry about a server failure wiping out all his stored video. In the clouds it is always there. And unlike local storage, data will not be lost because of theft, fire, or flood.
2. Remote Access
Remote access is one of the nicest features of cloud data storage. No matter where a homeowner is in the world, he can access video data with just a smartphone and an internet connection. Think of what this means practically.
Imagine your home is equipped with a Vivint Home Security system complete with several wireless cameras. You are enjoying a tropical vacation on a beach in some faraway destination. At any time, you can take a look at stored video data just to see what’s been happening inside your home.
Maybe you trusted your sister-in-law to stop by and water the plants. Did she? Stored video footage will tell the tale. If you do not see her on the video and you arrive home to dead plants, you will know why.
3. Data Backups
Most cloud storage systems offer the option of automatic data backups. This benefits the homeowner through automatic archiving of any video data stored locally. Once again, there is never any worry of losing critical video footage because backups are saved automatically in the cloud. And in the case of local hardware failure, a homeowner still has the cloud data to turn to.
4. Enhanced Security
Locally stored video data might not be secure if a homeowner does not know how to effectively secure his network. That is not a problem in the cloud. Providers make cloud security a priority. They guarantee that video data is always walled off from unauthorized access.
No doubt there are reasons some homeowners prefer to store their security video locally. Those reasons are just as valid as choosing cloud storage. But when reliability is a concern, it is hard to beat the cloud.
For my money, storing security video in the cloud is a better way to go. Cloud storage is more reliable and arguably more secure. For me, cloud storage just makes sense.
