Future-proof cloud video security: VSaaS with edge storage

The migration of video security to the cloud has become more prominent, transforming how organizations manage their security needs. By integrating edge storage within this cloud-based architecture, businesses can create a future-proof VSaaS (Video Security as a Service) solution that prioritizes security, efficient deployment and management.

Benefits of VSaaS 

Cloud-based video security or VSaaS are seeing increased adoption. According to MarketsandMarkets, a compound annual growth rate of 16.1 percent is projected for VSaaS from now till 2029. This trend is further supported by our recent industry survey “Edge Storage in Cloud-Based Video Security Applications,” conducted by asmag.com in collaboration with Micron Technology. The survey showed that 62 percent of the respondents are already offering cloud-based solutions, the number of which is expected to increase to 80 percent within a year.

The growing popularity of VSaaS can be attributed to several key benefits, from a business model and technology perspective. These include:

• Reduced upfront equipment costs: Cloud-based systems eliminate the need for expensive on-site servers and storage hardware. VSaaS operates under an OpEx model which shifts the cost from a capital expenditure (CapEx) to a potentially deductible operating expense (OpEx).
• High scalability: VSaaS solutions can be easily adapted to changing security needs by adding or removing cameras as required.
• Remote viewing and management: Users can access and manage their security system from anywhere with an internet connection, offering greater flexibility and control.
• Enhanced Security with AI: Integration with advanced analytics and AI at the edge enables real-time threat detection, anomaly recognition, and proactive security measures.

VSaaS offers a compelling value proposition across diverse sectors. For businesses managing security across multiple locations, VSaaS offers centralized management and reduces the need for on-site servers. This also holds true for organizations with limited resources where VSaaS provides a cost-effective and easy-to-maintain solution.

Retail chain stores, with typically small camera deployments per location, are a prime example of how cloud architecture can benefit businesses. Centralized management in the cloud eliminates the need for separate servers at each store, streamlining store security and operations.

Similarly, schools and universities, often lacking the resources to maintain on-site servers, can benefit from a cloud-based security solution. This central management system ensures automatic updates for all locations, with new features and analytics uploaded centrally, ensuring implementation across all locations without any hassle for the end user.

High-capacity, long-term storage: A growing trend in VSaaS

There is a growing demand for advanced storage solutions as user requirements continue to evolve. This is driven by several factors:

• Increased video data: Higher-resolution cameras generate significantly more video data. A 4K camera at 15 frames per second (fps) produces four times the data of a 1080p camera at 15 fps. This exponential growth in data volume necessitates storage solutions that can scale efficiently to accommodate the demands of high-resolution video security systems.
• Longer retention requirements: Compliance with regulations often dictates retention periods. For instance, Singapore mandates keeping CCTV footage for at least 30 days. Taiwan requires childcare centers to retain indoor footage for the same duration. Our recent market survey on edge storage in cloud video security found that nearly half of respondents (45%) have retention requirements of 60 days to 180 days or higher.

However, due to bandwidth costs and network reliability, storing everything on the cloud can be both expensive and not the most reliable. To address these challenges, cloud video security is witnessing a shift towards advanced edge storage.
 
Edge storage enables recorded data to be retained locally, uploading only critical data, alerts and incidents flagged as important to the cloud. Traditionally on-site network video recorders (NVRs) handled local storage. However, in cloud-based video security systems, advanced edge storage solutions like microSD cards is gaining popularity.

Leveraging edge storage for enhanced VSaaS performance 

MicroSD cards allow for extended in-camera storage of high-resolution video, enabling reduced reliance on cloud storage and lower bandwidth consumption. To meet the demanding requirements of VSaaS, manufacturers offer industrial-grade versions of microSD cards specifically designed for the demanding requirements of VSaaS deployments. The options feature high Terabytes Written (TBW) ratings, ensuring durability for continuous recording, and high Mean Time Between Failures (MTBF) ratings, minimizing the risk of system failure.
 
Consumer-grade edge storage isn't ideal for this workload as it might not be built for such intensive storage workload, leading to reliability issues and frequent replacements. Industrial-grade cards enable concurrent high-resolution (4K) video recording and capture of multiple AI events. This combination of high capacity, durability, and performance makes these solutions a compelling option for cloud video security deployments.

Maximizing VSaaS performance with pre-validated storage solutions

Original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) now often bundle edge storage solutions with IP cameras, presenting several advantages for VSaaS adoption. Pre-validated compatibility between these components ensures smooth integration within the VSaaS ecosystem. This streamlined integration can also potentially benefit VSaaS providers by simplifying system management.
 
Memory cards that are validated for specific camera models or designated as industrial-grade (designed specifically for the demanding write cycles of video security applications and rigorously tested by manufacturers) also provide performance guarantees. These guarantees help ensure the reliability and stability of edge storage within VSaaS solutions.

Optimizing VSaaS with edge storage 

The future of video security lies in the combination of VSaaS and advanced edge storage. VSaaS offers a compelling value proposition with affordability, scalability, and remote management capabilities. Edge storage complements VSaaS by overcoming bandwidth limitations and ensuring critical video data is secure.

Industrial-grade storage solutions designed for VSaaS deployments guarantee durability, performance, and reliability. Additionally, pre-validated bundled solutions from OEMs simplify system integration and management. This synergy between VSaaS and edge storage offers a future-proof approach to video security, ideal for businesses of all sizes.

Curious about user preferences for data retention, endurance needs, and edge storage habits? Click here for the full breakdown of our 2024 reader survey results and more related articles.
 

About Micron Technology

Micron is an industry leader in innovative memory and storage solutions transforming how the world uses information to enrich life for all. With a relentless focus on our customers, technology leadership, and manufacturing and operational excellence, Micron delivers a rich portfolio of high-performance DRAM, NAND and NOR memory and storage products through our Micron and Crucial brands. Every day, the innovations that our people create fuel the data economy, enabling advances in artificial intelligence (AI) and compute-intensive applications that unleash opportunities — from the data center to the intelligent edge and across the client and mobile user experience. To learn more about Micron Technology (Nasdaq: MU), visit micron.com.

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