Cloud vs. Local Recording

Posted bycrider-consultingPosted inSecurity Cameras
a person operating a recorder

This post is part of a series describing the different aspects to consider when choosing a security camera system.

Where is your video recorded and who has access to it? To some that is an important question. It should be important to everyone. Is it recorded to your basement, on a server in another state, or maybe even in another country?

Cloud recording is when the video from your system is stored somewhere on the Internet. While this can be convenient and makes for an easy system install, there are several disadvantages to this approach:

  • You have no control over the video, who has access to it, or where it is.
    • There have been multiple reports of companies using customer video, without permission, for testing as well as handing your video to police without a warrant.
  • An Internet connection is required for video recording.
  • There are monthly fees for storage of the video.
  • 24/7 recording is difficult, of not impossible (depending on your connection), and is expensive.
  • The amount of recored video is limited to what you pay for EACH month.

Local recording is when the the video is stored at the same location as the cameras (your home or business). Local recording is more complicated to install and has a higher up-front cost, but has many advantages over Cloud recording.

  • All video is recorded at your property.
  • You grant access to the video.
  • Video is recorded with or without an internet connection.
    • An Internet connection is required for remote viewing.
  • No monthly storage fees.
  • 24/7 recording is the standard.
  • The amount of recorded video is only limited by the size of Hard Drive(s) installed in the system.

At Crider Consulting, our goal when designing a system is to be able to record around 30 days of 24/7 video from every camera. We do this because you are not always immediately aware that there was an issue on your property and it may be several weeks before you know that you need to go back and review the video.

Additional posts in this series:

* Cloud vs. Local Recording
– Constant vs. Event Based Recording
– Wireless vs. Cellular vs. Wired
– Battery Powered vs. Powered vs. POE
– System Ease of Use