When data is captured from security cameras or access control systems, it must be either stored on-site or hosted in the cloud. Because of the security considerations and different levels of infrastructure involved for each option, deciding whether to implement an on-premise or cloud-based security system is a complex — and impactful — decision.
When data is captured from security cameras or access control systems, it must be either stored on-site or hosted in the cloud. Because of the security considerations and different levels of infrastructure involved for each option, deciding whether to implement an
on-premise or cloud-based security system is a complex — and impactful — decision.
It is important to weigh the benefits and disadvantages of both solutions before choosing which one aligns best with your security, operational and financial needs.
Is one solution more secure than the other?
With rising cybersecurity threats, you should consider data security and physical security when deciding whether to install a cloud or on-premise system.
On-premise solutions offer security teams control of data protection by providing them direct access to their storage systems or data centers. However, the physical infrastructure may leave data vulnerable to breaches, theft or attacks by intruders, and could lead to accidental loss or damage. So, with on-premise solutions, ensuring the security of your data center requires you to set strict management rules and processing and auditing procedures to prevent unauthorized individuals from accessing sensitive data. It may even require you to hire an on-site security team.
On the other hand, cloud security controls eliminate the risk of on-site data theft or damage — but constraints on security levels are set by cloud providers rather than internal teams, resulting in a multi-tenant cloud system with shared databases, resources and security. Although data is not shared with other users, data spillages and resulting security breaches are potential risks.
You must also consider data in transit when considering a cloud-based security solution. While data encryption at the source reduces the risk of theft from the cloud, the public Internet is still vulnerable to hacking. However, you can take steps to minimize this risk, such as setting up private Internet facilities to help protect sensitive data in transit.
Which system is right for you?
Enterprise security systems are complex and as unique as each business. It is vital to conduct a detailed analysis of several factors before implementing new security technology to help ensure you choose the right solutions for your long-term goals and needs. Before making a decision, consider whether:
- You have the physical space for on-premise servers
- You have emergency recovery plans for your security data
- There are budget constraints that could limit you either up-front or in the future
- Your business has secure, reliable Internet connectivity and the bandwidth to transfer large volumes of data
- You plan to grow your number of sites or expand your security operations in the future
- There are regulations or compliance standards you are required to meet
Choosing a security system requires balancing operational costs against risk to create a solution that is tailored to your business needs while providing the highest level of protection to keep your people, property and assets safe.
Download the
Avigilon Security Technology Guide to learn more about security technology and top trends for 2023, or request a demo to speak with your
local Avigilon representative today.