Micron survey: SSDs, M.2 rise in NVR storage for cloud video security

Edge storage remains a critical component of cloud-based video security solutions, as evidenced by our new survey titled "Edge Storage in Cloud-Based Video Security Applications" conducted by asmag.com and Micron Technology. While the first article explored industry adoption of cloud video security solutions, storage solution requirements and preferences, this article focuses on on-premise NVR usage preferences, including drive selection, form factor preference, storage endurance and retention needs.
 
The survey polled asmag.com’s reader database of global physical security professionals. 65% of responses came from Asia, followed by 12% for Europe, 7% each for the Americas, Middle East and Africa, and 2% for Oceania. System integrators accounted for the biggest majority at 26%, with 21% distributors, 19% service/solutions providers, 15% manufacturers and 13% installers.
 
Here are pertinent findings from the survey:

On-premise edge storage: a strong industry preference

In our survey, edge storage remains a strong preference for many users. 65% of users opt to keep video footage and data on-site within a cloud-based architecture, utilizing NVRs or in-camera storage. This continued preference for NVRs, a type of edge storage solutions, can likely be attributed to the need for a protocol “gateway” between camera manufacturers and the cloud platform to support third-party connections in today’s video security use cases.

Growing shift towards high-performance SSD storage

Our survey further finds the growing adoption of solid-state drives (SSDs) in NVR use cases. Although hard disk drives (HDDs) remain the main storage choice for NVRs, nearly a third of respondents (33%) have adopted the use of SSDs.
 
This shift suggests a growing demand for high-performance storage that can handle intensive applications in video security. Especially for AI applications, involving multiple video streams and metadata generation, require fast processing capabilities which an SSD can readily support. Additionally, SSDs, with their small footprint, fan-less design and wide temperature support are ideal for both indoor and outdoor compact NVR design implementation.

M.2 and PCle gain traction

SSD form factor and interface are crucial considerations for users selecting SSDs for NVR applications as it impacts both space limitations and performance. While the survey shows that 2.5-inch SATA drives are the dominant choice (73%), which aligns with current industrial application trends in SSD usage, a growing segment (27%) is opting for M.2 PCle SSDs.
 
This interest likely stems from the many advantages M.2 PCle SSDs offer: a significantly smaller form factor as well as faster read/write speeds. These M.2 SSDs also feature NVMe interfaces that can potentially enhance performance for AI and edge computing in video security solutions, offering both flexibility and upgradability.

High storage retention requirements

The survey highlighted valuable insights into user storage preferences for cloud video security applications. Retention periods was important when it comes to user preferences, with local regulations and security practices usually dictating how long video data needs to be stored. A significant portion of survey respondents (45%) indicated the need to retain footage for at least 30 days, likely sufficient enough for security monitoring or incident review. However, the survey revealed another substantial group (45%) who require 60 days to 180 days or more of storage, potentially due to compliance regulations.                 

Importance of storage endurance

Our survey revealed that a significant portion of users (70%) prioritize high endurance, requiring their storage medium to last 3 years or even up to 10 years or more before needing replacement. Storage endurance, the acceptable number of years of recording on the storage medium, impacts user purchasing decisions. A higher endurance rating translates to fewer drive replacements, which can ultimately reduce the total cost of ownership (TCO) for the system. Users need to carefully assess their recording needs and desired retention period when selecting storage solutions.

Conclusion

While cloud-based solutions offer undeniable convenience, on-premise storage remains a strong contender due to factors like camera compatibility and performance demands for AI applications. The future of video security storage likely lies in a hybrid approach, leveraging the strengths of both cloud and on-premise options.

High-performance solid-state drives (SSDs) will have a growing role in supporting the use of AI in video security, while advancements in storage density will allow for cost-effective retention of high-resolution footage. Ultimately, the viability of video storage solutions will hinge on their ability to deliver performance, capacity, and cost-competitiveness – all while ensuring recordings are reliably stored for the desired lifespan and compliance regulations are met.

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.

Sponsored by