Blog Date: 7/19/2012
Author: Ray Coulombe

The major product sectors of the security industry seem to have all followed a similar progression: analog (or low-speed serial), to digital, to IP, and now, to the cloud. The security industry may be lagging behind the IT world in terms of standards, features and product applications; however, they are both traveling the same path — and it leads to the cloud.
In certain VSaaS cases, all video remains stored locally — either in dedicated network-attached storage devices, or in cameras with internal (normally SD) storage. If suitable uplink WAN bandwidth is available from the video source, a secure Virtual Private Network (VPN) — otherwise known as a tunnel — can be employed to stream video to one or more off-site secure locations. Yet another approach, based on functionality like the Axis Communications One-Click system, allows a camera to be associated with an off-site storage system, and pushes that video to the cloud storage device. The recording, replay and live video access is controlled by a software platform such as the Axis Video Hosting System, or, for example, Salient Systems’ CompleteView.
Another consideration is the potential of analytics. Camera analytics are improving, and local processing and decision making may be critical — especially if an immediate response is required. Centralized analytics lends itself to forensics and data mining, where storage servers endowed with powerful analytics may bring their advantages to many users. This eliminates the need to make an up-front investment, and timely technology upgrades become easier.
Ultimately, a positive business value must be shown for VSaaS to reach its full potential, and additional complimentary services may be the key. Associating video with other alarm or physical security events creates a more complete picture of threats and alarms.
Link to Complete Article as it appeared in Security Technology Executive Magazine

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