NVR vs Cloud Surveillance: Which One to Choose for Your Business?

Businesses these days heavily rely on surveillance. A company usually invests in a sophisticated video surveillance system that includes a great camera system. However, that also includes where the data is stored. There are 2 options for how data is stored such as NVR (Network Video Recorder) and cloud surveillance. Every business has unique needs and finding the right technology solution is key. Video surveillance will vary depending on what type of business you have: business, industrial or warehouse and logistics hub.

What Is NVR and DVR Surveillance?

Digital Video Recording (DVR) uses a closed-circuit camera system connected to a computer that can record digitally. Unlike traditional CCTV footage, its data is stored digitally which makes it easier to find specific videos since all footage is dated and timed. The cameras will record their footage onto a hard drive which can be problematic. Once the hard drive is full unless the data is programmed to overwrite itself it will stop recording new footage.

Network Video Recorder (NVR) is a computer system that includes a software program that records videos in a digital format. The video is then saved onto a dedicated disk drive, USB drive, SD memory card, or any other storage device that can house the footage. NVR systems are usually connected to IP cameras which makes the footage clearer, it is more flexible than other security systems, but it is also more complex.

There are many stark differences between a DVR system and an NVR security system, notably how they process video data. A DVR system is a wired security system that has its limitations whereas an NVR security system can be both wired and wireless depending on the needs of the client and is far more flexible in how the data is stored.

Pros of NVR Surveillance

NVR security system has a clearer image than its grainy DVR counterpart because it receives its images directly from a digital signal from the camera. NVR systems can also record audio if cameras come equipped with a microphone because Ethernet cables carry audio. Here’s a list of pros for the NVR system:

• Can record video and audio
• Better video quality
• More range and flexibility
• Can be wired or wireless

Cons of NVR Surveillance

NVR security systems are efficient and used prolifically in the business world, there are, however, a few drawbacks that must be considered.

• Expensive: The cost of the setup of an NVR surveillance system must be weighed carefully. Some of these costs include IP cameras, a stable internet connection, operating software, and cloud storage.
• Hardware compatibility issues: This goes without saying but a business owner is responsible for finding out whether all the equipment is compatible with each other. For example, most IP cameras will work with an NVR system but there are exceptions. This is also why it’s important to get a professional to install the security system.
• Internet and WiFi connectivity problems: A business needs to invest in stable internet infrastructure to take advantage of all the benefits an NVR security system can offer.

Cloud Surveillance

Cloud surveillance is a form of offsite storage of audio-visual data on the internet. It requires a minimal amount of hardware, but it does need a strong internet connection to be able to store the footage remotely. When a cloud video surveillance camera records footage, it automatically converts it to a file that then is sent to a storage host on the internet as per the customer’s preference. More and more businesses are turning towards a cloud surveillance system for its convenience and wide range of applications and features.

Pros of Cloud Surveillance

Cloud security systems are gaining in popularity over the years because they offer many benefits at a reasonable cost. More businesses opt to go with the cloud because of the flexibility that it affords them with the quasi-infinite footage it can store remotely.

• 24/7 live access to video footage
• Special features such as replay, share, download
• Alerts in real-time when motion detectors are activated
• Scalability-the storage required per company can be easily adjusted according to the client’s needs
• Minimal hardware requirements reduce the chance of losing footage due to malfunctioning hardware

Cons of Cloud Surveillance

When it comes to cloud security systems it can get a bit complicated. Let’s start by saying that no security system is perfect, there are drawbacks to any security solution. The key here is to partner with a cloud host that you can trust, this minimizes any undesired online breaches.

• Online hacking and data breaches can occur
• It will slow down the company’s internet
• The maintenance fees for cloud cameras are higher than the traditional IP cameras

The Difference Between NVR and Cloud Surveillance

It is important to note that there is no good or bad option when it comes to a security system whether it be an NVR-based or cloud-based system. Every business owner needs to figure out which option is more suitable for them because every business is unique. So, it boils down to how much accessibility and flexibility a business requires and what is most convenient for them. The advantage of the cloud surveillance system, unlike the NVR-based system it doesn’t require a storage facility since all the data is being stored on the cloud. On the contrary, though cloud surveillance systems require a stable and strong internet connection and may slow down the internet for the company at large.

What Surveillance System to Choose for Your Business?

As mentioned above, the choice lies in what type of security your company requires. However, if your company operates in multiple locations or has multiple cameras onsite, it would be a more cost-effective choice to go with a cloud security system. On the other hand, it is important to be aware of the potential hacking that can occur which is why it’s important to choose a reputable security provider that will store your footage.

Video Surveillance from Forbel Alarms

Pertaining to security, no security is not an option in today’s business world. Whether your company opts for a traditional DVR surveillance or NVR security system or a cloud security system, it is important to contact a professional who will guide you in the right direction. Learn more about video surveillance by reaching out to us, don’t wait, your business depends on you.