The physical security landscape is undergoing a significant transformation as organizations increasingly adopt Video Security as a Service (VSaaS) solutions. For systems integrators and end customers in the security sector, understanding this expansion of VSaaS and the crucial role of edge storage is essential.
According to MarketsandMarkets, the global VSaaS market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 16.1 percent from 2024 to 2029. This surge is driven by advancements in cloud technology, the need for scalable security solutions, and the integration of AI and analytics.
Central to this growth is edge storage technology, which optimizes VSaaS by enhancing system responsiveness, reducing bandwidth constraints, and supporting advanced functionalities.
“The shift towards cloud-based security isn't just a trend - it's a response to the growing need for more flexible and efficient security solutions,” said David Henderson, Director of the Industrial Segment for the Embedded Business Unit in Micron. "Edge storage is a key enabler in this shift, addressing many of the challenges that come with traditional cloud deployments.”
The appeal of VSaaS
For systems integrators and their customers, VSaaS offers several compelling benefits that align with client needs:
- Reduced upfront costs: VSaaS operates on an operational expenditure (OpEx) model, eliminating the need for significant capital expenditure (CapEx) on on-site servers and storage hardware.
- Scalability: Clients can easily scale their security systems by adding or removing cameras without substantial infrastructure changes.
- Remote accessibility: VSaaS allows for centralized management and remote access, enabling integrators to offer more flexible and responsive services.
- Advanced analytics: Integration with AI and edge computing facilitates real-time threat detection and proactive security measures.These advantages are particularly relevant for clients managing multiple locations or those with limited resources for maintaining extensive on-site equipment.
"One of the primary drivers for VSaaS is customers wanting to maintain less equipment at the edge and more secure and longer data retention pushed to the cloud,” said James Cox, VP for Global Business Development at Network Optix. “Edge storage enables local recording on each device, eliminating the need for any bridge, server, or NVR storage hardware to be installed on-site.”
In addition, it removes the need to stream archives 24/7 to the cloud, which standard networks currently lack the bandwidth for, Cox added. Users can keep non-critical data locally for their required period and move critical clips to the cloud for better safety and longer-term retention.
Edge storage: enhancing VSaaS performance
While VSaaS offers numerous benefits, it also presents some downsides, particularly concerning bandwidth limitations and data retention requirements. Both cloud or edge storage can address these issues, provided the storage capacity is sufficient to meet retention demands. However, relying on cloud storage for extended retention periods can lead to increased bandwidth consumption, which is why high-capacity edge storage is gaining more traction in the industry.
Edge storage addresses these issues by enabling local data processing and storage directly within cameras using application-optimized microSD cards. This approach reduces the need for constant data streaming to the cloud and ensures that all captured footage is stored on the microSD card to meet long-term storage retention requirements.
“By enabling cameras to process and store data locally, edge storage alleviates the strain on network bandwidth and ensures compliance with data retention regulations due to its high storage capacity,” said Henderson. “This local storage capability means that even if the network goes down, critical footage remains securely captured, providing a more resilient and efficient security solution.”
Overcoming integration challenges
Integrating edge storage into VSaaS is also not without hurdles. Compatibility between different devices, firmware limitations, and ensuring consistent performance are all
common concerns.
“One of the main challenges is ensuring that edge storage solutions are robust enough to handle continuous read/write operations inherent in video security,” noted Henderson. “Application-optimized storage solutions are designed to meet these demands, providing the reliability that systems integrators and their clients require.”
Companies like Micron, with expertise in developing storage solutions, play a crucial role in overcoming these challenges. Their industrial microSD cards are engineered for video security applications, essential for the rigorous demands of continuous video recording and playback.
The role of partnerships in driving innovation
Wherever these challenges become critical, vendors need to collaborate with the right partners. Cox elaborated on this point.
“Gaining full access to the SD card within a camera can be largely dependent on the device's firmware and the support and features the device offers to connect with the edge storage (SD card),” Cox said. “This presents challenges for true serverless VSaaS solutions, requiring most providers to use a bridge device or develop their own hardware strategy.”
He added that Network Optix's edge media server can be installed on almost any device, eliminating some of the challenges other VSaaS providers face. Installing their media server directly onto a camera and interfacing directly with the edge storage enables truly serverless VSaaS solutions.
“By working closely with software developers like Network Optix, we can ensure our storage solutions are fully optimized for the applications they serve,” added Henderson. “This synergy is vital for delivering integrated solutions that meet the high expectations of today's security market.”
These collaborations benefit systems integrators by providing them with validated, compatible solutions that simplify deployment and enhance performance. Pre-validated storage and camera integrations reduce the complexity of system setup, allowing integrators to focus on delivering value-added services to their clients.
The future outlook for VSaaS
As the security industry continues to evolve, systems integrators must stay abreast of technological advancements to remain competitive. The growth of VSaaS and the integration of edge storage present both opportunities and challenges.
Regulatory trends indicate increasing requirements for video data retention, with some regions mandating storage periods of 30 to 180 days or more. Edge storage solutions make it feasible to comply with these regulations without incurring prohibitive costs or overwhelming cloud infrastructures.
Moreover, the rise of AI and analytics in security applications underscores the importance of edge computing capabilities. Systems integrators who embrace these technologies can offer clients more intelligent and responsive security solutions.
“The future of physical security lies in harnessing the power of both the cloud and the edge,” concluded Henderson. “Systems integrators who leverage these technologies will be well-positioned to meet the evolving needs of their clients.”
Conclusion
The integration of edge storage with VSaaS represents a significant advancement in physical security technology. For system integrators, understanding and adopting these trends is crucial for delivering solutions that are efficient, scalable, and aligned with client demands.
By focusing on the growth of VSaaS and the critical role of edge storage, integrators can navigate the challenges of bandwidth limitations, data retention requirements, and the need for advanced analytics. Collaborations between technology providers like Micron and Network Optix further enhances the ecosystem, offering integrators validated solutions that simplify deployment and improve performance.
As organizations continue to seek more flexible and intelligent security systems, systems integrators who embrace these technologies will not only meet current demands but also position themselves for future success in a rapidly evolving market
Micron Technology is a global leader in innovative memory and storage solutions. With a relentless focus on customer needs, technology leadership, and manufacturing excellence, Micron delivers a rich portfolio of high-performance products that power advancements from the data center to the intelligent edge. For more information, visit