Cloud storage, why is it not a good idea?

Cloud Storage; Are you sure?

Is your client asking about Dahua and Cloud storage?

Consumer grade cameras often recorded to the cloud. Customers have interactions with these devices on a daily bases. Therefore when they get a professional system installed they often expect the same features.

So why might they want cloud storage? First and foremost it is a buzz word like 4K. People throw it around without actually understanding the implications. They thinks it’s how everything works nowadays. They are almost right.

Most consumer grade systems only upload motion detection or events. This means it is not a constant stream but rather short bursts. However most systems run into issues with internet speeds and lost connections. Especially in parts of London which are still on copper instead of fibre.

When a Dahua system is installed more often than not the NVR runs on continuous recording allowing the user to search any point in time. Not just events. Also the internet is only used when you are remote viewing or playing back via the apps.

Most clients whom want cloud recording are concerned about the NVR being stolen. If this is the case the best option is to put SD cards in the cameras and power them from a separate switch with a UPS. Then if the NVR is stolen the SD cards are there for back up.

This way precious upload speed is not used uploading video to the cloud.

Most cloud storage sites cost around £8 a camera per month. So it can be a costly way of doing it also.