Introduction
When it comes to surveillance system management, companies have a deciding factor: VMS or VSaaS aka Cloud VMS. Both are robust tools for managing cameras and footage, but the decision really boils down to your needs, budget, and growth plans. If you've been unsure what works best—on-premise or cloud surveillance—you're not alone. Let's break it down in clear, actionable terms.
What Do These Terms Mean?
VMS (Video Management System)
An on-premise solution that keeps and processes video locally. Imagine it as your own in-house environment where you are in charge of everything—ranging from compute to storage.
VSaaS (Video Surveillance as a Service) aka Cloud VMS
A cloud-based solution where video is kept and handled online. You don't have to worry about cumbersome hardware. Instead, you access and control footage anywhere, anytime via the cloud.
In brief, it's Video management vs Cloud surveillance—control on your premises versus convenience in the cloud.
Key Comparisons: VMS vs VSaaS
| Key | VMS | VSaaS |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Cost & Investment | Involves greater initial investment in servers, storage devices, and infrastructure. But it can prove economical in the long run if you already have robust IT support. | Lesser initial cost as it is based on a subscription model. But recurring payments total over a period of time. |
| 2. Scalability | Growing means additional hardware and IT support. | Scales in an instant—just add extra cameras to your package. Ideal for expanding businesses. |
| 3. Storage & Security | Store it locally and have complete control. But also complete responsibility for backing up and maintaining the system. | Leverages CCTV cloud storage with redundancy and backup features. You don't concern yourself with physical damage or data loss. |
| 4. Accessibility | Restricted access to your in-site network unless you implement remote access. | Remote access everywhere via secure web or app portal. Great for multi-site operations. |
| 5. Maintenance & Updates | You're responsible for updates, patches, and hardware maintenance. | Automatic updates in the cloud. Your system remains up-to-date without additional effort. |
| 6. Camera Management | More customization and advanced analysis if you have the underlying infrastructure. | Streamlines camera management with plug-and-play installation but potentially has fewer custom features than a full-featured VMS. |
| Key | VMS | VSaaS |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Cost & Investment | Involves greater initial investment in servers, storage devices, and infrastructure. But it can prove economical in the long run if you already have robust IT support. | Lesser initial cost as it is based on a subscription model. But recurring payments total over a period of time. |
| 2. Scalability | Growing means additional hardware and IT support. | Scales in an instant—just add extra cameras to your package. Ideal for expanding businesses. |
| 3. Storage & Security | Store it locally and have complete control. But also complete responsibility for backing up and maintaining the system. | Leverages CCTV cloud storage with redundancy and backup features. You don't concern yourself with physical damage or data loss. |
| 4. Accessibility | Restricted access to your in-site network unless you implement remote access. | Remote access everywhere via secure web or app portal. Great for multi-site operations. |
| 5. Maintenance & Updates | You're responsible for updates, patches, and hardware maintenance. | Automatic updates in the cloud. Your system remains up-to-date without additional effort. |
| 6. Camera Management | More customization and advanced analysis if you have the underlying infrastructure. | Streamlines camera management with plug-and-play installation but potentially has fewer custom features than a full-featured VMS. |
Which One to Pick?
Opt for VMS if you
- Already possess IT infrastructure and hardware
- Require high customisation and analytics
- Want complete control over data and storage security
Select VSaaS if you
- Desire lower initial costs
- Require remote access and flexibility
- Intend to grow rapidly in many locations
Last Thoughts
Selecting VMS vs VSaaS aka Cloud VMS isn't necessarily a matter of which is better in general—it's a matter of what's better for you. Sure, VMS provides control and detail, and VSaaS provides ease and scalability. Ultimately, both strategies have one objective: reliable, secure surveillance.
By considering cost, access, and plans for growth, you'll know whether to maintain an established system or go with the cloud for intelligent security.
