When you’re evaluating video security for your school, the question inevitably comes up: which is better, a cloud or on-premise (DVR/NVR) system?
There are pros and cons to each type of solution and it’s important to perform due diligence on all potential vendors. However, there are several common misconceptions about cloud video security solutions that often arise and muddy the waters. In this post, we’ll discuss and debunk the biggest myths about cloud video security.
For an in-depth breakdown on how to choose a video security solution for your school, read: How to Choose the Right Video Surveillance System for Education.
MYTH: Cloud video security isn’t secure
TRUTH: Cloud video security solutions are just as secure as on-premise systems
There’s a common misconception that cloud systems aren’t secure when compared to on-premise systems. This information is incorrect and true system security varies from manufacturer to manufacturer. If your current on-premise system requires you to port-forward for remote access, poke holes in your firewall, or is leveraging outdated firmware – this can cause your surveillance system to become compromised.
Cloud systems like Rhombus follow the strictest cybersecurity protocols in the industry. SOC 2 Type 2 is the most comprehensive certification and requires the most rigorous adherence to the Trust Service Criteria: security, availability, processing integrity, confidentiality, and privacy. Many schools, businesses, and healthcare providers have chosen to upgrade to the cloud specifically for better reliability and security.
Some of the proactive cybersecurity practices that Rhombus include are:
For additional cloud security protocols, see an overview of Rhombus’ security practices.
MYTH: Cloud systems are more expensive than on-premise
TRUTH: When you factor in total ownership costs and ROI, some cloud solutions are actually less expensive than traditional systems
The second most common myth is that in the long-term, cloud is more expensive than on-premise. Annual licensing fees are the main source of this concern. However, when you break down all the costs of system ownership, cloud consistently comes out as less expensive, even with annual licensing fees. (TIP: Watch out for “hidden costs” from both on-premise and cloud vendors. A common one is ongoing hidden fees if you run out of memory and storage.)
To understand total costs, let’s compare cloud vs on-premise systems:
Upfront costs: Cloud systems are less expensive upfront than on-premise systems. On-premise systems require more hardware than cloud solutions, and with more hardware comes more expense. Each location requires an NVR, a local viewing station, hard drives, and cameras—the cost adds up. To support 50 - 100 cameras and 30 days of video, an enterprise NVR device can cost anywhere from $30K - $50K.
With a cloud solution, the only devices you need to purchase and deploy are the cameras.
Operational costs: Cloud systems can improve operations and efficiency with modern technology. Staying with an older, traditional system that works “fine”, but not great, is expensive. You spend time and money on maintenance, labor, inefficiencies, and workarounds.
Organizations often see massive jumps in productivity after switching to Rhombus’ cloud solution. The most significant factors include:
MYTH: Cloud is unreliable; if the internet goes down, the system stops working
TRUTH: Modern cloud video security solutions enable your system to work even during network outages
The third most common myth is that if your internet goes offline, a cloud system will stop working. This is untrue; Rhombus uses a hybrid solution with built-in redundancies and features that enable it to keep working even during an outage.
Upgrading your school video security system is a big decision, and it’s important to have a clear understanding of your options. When you learn more about cloud video security solutions and see past the myths, the benefits are significant. Cloud is a reliable, smart, and cost-effective way to increase visibility, productivity and safety for schools.
Experience Rhombus for yourself—schedule a demo or a free trial.
For a high-level look at choosing a video security solution, check out: How to Choose the Right Video Surveillance System for Education.
See how the Rhombus + HALO integration solves student vaping: How to Prevent Student Vaping in Schools with Connected IoT Sensors
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