For physical security systems integrators and consultants, understanding the benefits and challenges of cloud-first solutions is key to guiding clients through this transition.
As more organizations move from traditional DVR and NVR setups to cloud-based surveillance and access control systems, the conversation around security, privacy, and long-term value has become increasingly important.
For physical security systems integrators and consultants, understanding the benefits and challenges of cloud-first solutions is key to guiding clients through this transition.
According to Boudewijn Pesch, Vice President of Japan and Asia Pacific Channel Sales at Verkada, leading cloud-based systems now deliver a level of security and reliability that often exceeds that of legacy systems. “Leading cloud-based systems today offer robust security and privacy controls,” Pesch said. “Many encrypt data both in transit and at rest, ensuring it remains protected whether it’s being sent to the cloud or stored locally on a device.”
For small and medium-sized businesses evaluating their options, independent verification plays an important role in building trust. Pesch advised integrators to look for objective measures of system security. “For small businesses evaluating cloud-based systems, looking for independent security assessments and certifications like ISO and SOC can help to determine the best security solution,” he said.
Continuous updates and risk reduction
One of the defining strengths of cloud-based security systems is their ability to evolve continuously. Unlike traditional on-premises recorders, which often require manual intervention or hardware upgrades, cloud-connected platforms can deliver updates automatically. “The best part of having a cloud-based system is how it evolves over time, delivering new capabilities automatically,” Pesch explained.
This ongoing evolution is not limited to software improvements. It extends to core functionality such as analytics, integration, and cybersecurity. “From AI analytics and real-time alerts to new integrations and user interface improvements, these updates improve the user experience and deliver long-term value without any extra effort, hardware changes, or manual updates,” he said.
For security integrators, automatic updates can also reduce the burden of maintaining multiple client systems. Pesch noted that this proactive approach to updates directly addresses one of the most common vulnerabilities in traditional setups. “The automatic firmware updates also reduce exposure to vulnerabilities by keeping systems consistently patched, eliminating the risks associated with delayed or manual updates,” he said.
This reliability is especially relevant for multi-site customers and organizations managing distributed infrastructure. With firmware, software, and security updates deployed automatically from the cloud, administrators can ensure that every location remains compliant with the latest security standards.
Addressing customer concerns about subscription costs
Despite the growing adoption of cloud-first security systems, many customers continue to express concern about recurring subscription costs. Integrators play a critical role in reframing this conversation from short-term expenditure to long-term value.
Pesch emphasized that subscription-based models should be viewed as a means to maintain performance and innovation rather than a simple recurring charge. “When comparing security solutions, it’s important to consider the total cost of ownership,” he said. “Software licenses that customers purchase aren’t just for basic functionality – they enable manufacturers to deliver and maintain new, cutting-edge features and analytics; support integrations with third party technology solutions; and ultimately deliver a better customer experience with automatic over-the-air software, firmware, security updates, as well as customer support and user training.”
By including ongoing support, software improvements, and integration capabilities in the license model, vendors reduce the need for costly maintenance contracts or manual system upgrades. This approach also helps ensure that end users continue to benefit from technological advancements throughout the product lifecycle.
“All of these capabilities – which eliminate a large portion of maintenance and integration costs associated with traditional solutions – are delivered free of additional charge for the duration of the license term, saving small businesses time and money,” Pesch said. “It also ensures that customers enjoy a solution that continues to get better over time.”
Supporting integrators in a changing landscape
The move toward cloud-first solutions has changed how integrators approach system design, deployment, and support. While legacy systems relied heavily on on-site hardware maintenance, cloud-based platforms allow integrators to focus more on system optimization and service delivery.
Cloud management platforms often consolidate video surveillance, access control, and analytics into a single interface. This simplification enables faster deployments and more efficient remote troubleshooting. Integrators can also leverage cloud dashboards to monitor system health, manage user access, and configure alerts across multiple client sites.
For small businesses and large enterprises alike, this translates into improved uptime and reduced dependency on local IT resources. Automatic updates, centralized control, and real-time analytics are particularly valuable for industries with distributed facilities such as retail chains, schools, logistics centers, and healthcare institutions.
Security and privacy remain foundational
As organizations adopt cloud-first security infrastructure, concerns about data privacy and cyber resilience remain at the forefront. Vendors have responded by building in layered encryption, access controls, and compliance with global data protection standards.
While technical safeguards are essential, Pesch noted that independent validation continues to be an effective way to assure customers. Certifications such as ISO 27001 or SOC 2 demonstrate a vendor’s commitment to maintaining security best practices. For integrators, referencing these certifications can help reassure clients about the integrity of their systems.
In addition, centralized management systems often offer audit trails and user access logs, providing visibility into who accessed video data and when. This transparency supports compliance with regional privacy regulations, such as the EU’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) or emerging data protection frameworks across Asia.
The broader shift toward cloud adoption
The transition from on-premises to cloud-based systems reflects a broader digital transformation within the physical security industry. Many end users now expect their security platforms to integrate seamlessly with business operations, analytics tools, and third-party software.
The scalability of cloud infrastructure enables integrators to design systems that grow with their clients. Adding new cameras, sensors, or access points can often be done through software configuration rather than additional hardware. Similarly, analytics features powered by AI and machine learning can enhance situational awareness, automate incident detection, and reduce operator fatigue.
This software-driven model also positions integrators to offer value-added services such as remote monitoring, data insights, and system optimization. By focusing on lifecycle support instead of one-time installations, integrators can build longer-term relationships with their customers.
A future built on collaboration
As cloud adoption accelerates, collaboration between vendors, integrators, and customers will remain essential. Integrators will need to balance technical expertise with advisory roles, helping clients understand how subscription models, data security measures, and AI-driven features align with their business goals.
Manufacturers, in turn, will continue to refine their platforms to simplify integration, strengthen cybersecurity, and support regulatory compliance across different regions. The shift toward unified, cloud-managed systems is likely to continue reshaping the market for both surveillance and access control in the years ahead.
For integrators and consultants, this represents not just a technological evolution but a strategic opportunity. By understanding how cloud systems deliver ongoing updates, maintain compliance, and reduce operational costs, they can position themselves as trusted partners in helping customers modernize their security infrastructure.
As Pesch summed up, the long-term advantage lies in continuous improvement. “It also ensures that customers enjoy a solution that continues to get better over time,” he said.