Over recent years, cloud-based security cameras have been slowly gaining in popularity. However, these latest advancements raise a new question: Is modern always better? Businesses today are no longer just choosing cameras — they are choosing how their security systems are managed, stored, protected, and maintained long term. Businesses are re-evaluating their security as remote viewing, automatic updates, and AI detection features emerge. There is a lot that comes down to finding the right security for your business, and sometimes, the cable-free option is not always the best one. Ultimately audiences are left wondering, ‘Is cloud security really better than traditional on-premise systems?’. The answer depends entirely on your business, risk profile, compliance requirements, and operational needs. Keep reading to discover more.
Cloud-Based CCTV Security Systems
The term cloud-based is simply because camera footage is stored and managed through an internet-connected platform (a cloud). These CCTV systems can be viewed and accessed from any location by connecting a device to the security’s respective cloud platform and streaming via the internet.
Cloud-based systems provide easy remote access, automatic updates, and are valued for their convenience. They typically require monthly subscriptions, but due to their easy installation, the upfront costs are reasonably affordable. This also makes them ideal for small businesses on tight budgets.
Cloud-based systems are well-suited for scaling across multiple locations too. They provide commercial sites with the ability to survey several sites at a time. However, both large and small premises can benefit from these cameras.
Key benefits:
• Remote access from anywhere
• Automatic software updates
• AI detection
• Easy, centralised multi-site management
• Lower upfront costs
Cloud systems are popular because they are easy to deploy, scalable, and often require less onsite infrastructure.
Many cloud platforms also include advanced analytics such as:
• People and vehicle detection
• Behaviour analysis
• Real-time notifications
• Searchable footage
• Instant alerts
These systems are ideal for:
• Retail
• Multi-site businesses
• Companies desiring real time security alerts and remote access
• Small to medium enterprises
• Businesses with limited IT infrastructure
Hybrid Cloud CCTV Security Systems
Not all cloud systems rely entirely on internet recording. Some vendors, such as Verkada, use a hybrid cloud approach, where footage is recorded directly onto solid-state storage inside the camera while the cloud handles:
• Remote access
• System management
• AI analytics
• Health monitoring
This means cameras can continue recording during temporary internet outages while still offering cloud convenience. Similarly, Avilion Alta (formerly Ava) uses a cloud-first architecture combined with onboard camera storage for redundancy. Alta cameras primarily record to the cloud but also include local onboard storage via SD card backup. This edge-based technology allows footage to continue recording during network interruptions and upload securely once connectivity is restored.
It also means the system retains features such as AI anomaly detection, automatic updates, instant alerts, and the ability to merge multiple locations sites into one online cloud, but with added the security of physical SD card storage that runs internet-free.
Alta is designed to combine:
• Secure cloud access
• AI-powered analytics
• Edge-based recording
• Remote system management
• Reduced onsite infrastructure
This approach provides businesses with greater resilience while still benefiting from cloud-managed security.
On-Premise CCTV Security Systems
On-premise CCTV systems store security footage locally rather than on an online server. This means recordings are uploaded to a physical server rather than a digital one that’s easier to hack. They typically do not require internet and are much less vulnerable than online cloud platforms. They are heavily recommended for complex, extreme, high-security environments.
On-premise systems store footage locally using:
• NVRs
• Dedicated servers
• Local storage appliances
These systems operate primarily within the organisation’s own network and continue recording even if the internet fails.
On-premise CCTV is highly recommended for:
• Aged care
• Education
• Warehousing
• Government
• Healthcare
• Critical infrastructure
Because it provides greater:
• Data control
• Reliability
• Privacy
• Cybersecurity protection
The Biggest Differences
1. Data Control & Privacy
Cloud systems store footage externally with third-party providers, while on-premise systems keep footage within the business’s own infrastructure. For organisations with strict compliance or privacy requirements, local storage often provides greater peace of mind. While not all businesses require this extensive security, it is critical for sectors like aged care, education, and the government.
2. Internet Dependency
Cloud systems rely heavily on internet connectivity for:
• Remote viewing
• Notifications
• Cloud analytics
• Centralised management
• Online storage
While hybrid systems can continue recording locally during outages, access to cloud features may still be limited. On-premise systems continue operating independently of internet access.
3. Subscription Costs
Cloud CCTV typically has lower upfront costs but ongoing subscription fees for:
• Licensing
• Cloud storage
• AI features
• Software updates
Over time, these recurring costs can become substantial for larger sites. On-premise systems usually require higher upfront investment but often have lower long-term operating costs.
4. Vendor Lock-In
Many cloud systems use proprietary hardware and software ecosystems. In some cases, if the subscription ends:
• Features become restricted
• Cameras lose functionality
• Hardware may become unusable
By comparison, systems like Avigilon Unity can continue operating independently and integrate with broader on-premise security infrastructure.
Cloud-based:
• Lower upfront cost
• Ongoing subscription fees
On-premise:
• Higher upfront investment
• Long-term value for high-volume, high-resolution environments
With on-premise CCTV, there isn’t an ongoing fee such as cloud-based systems. You have the option of a one-time payment. Whereas many cloud-based vendors require a subscription for the most basic features, and a higher priced one to unlock all of them. On-premise systems are reliable for long-term consistent security that, when used for several years, have potential to cost less than a subscription-based camera.
5. Cybersecurity Risks
Cloud systems can offer strong security protections, but internet-connected surveillance platforms are also attractive cyber targets. The 2021 Verkada breach, where hackers accessed live camera feeds from sensitive facilities, highlighted the importance of:
• Vendor security practices
• Access control
• Data protection
• Cybersecurity planning
This remains a major consideration for high-security industries. The reliance on security cameras that only operate with one company, and its necessary subscription fees pose a significant risk to business owners. There are many benefits to the AI features and software that these brands provide; however, it is highly important to evaluate the long and short-term threats they also carry.
Why Hybrid Systems Are Growing
Because of these factors, many businesses are now adopting hybrid solutions that combine:
• Local recording reliability
• Cloud-based remote access
• AI analytics
• Centralised management
This approach allows organisations to balance:
• Security
• Flexibility
• Scalability
• Performance
For many businesses, hybrid security is becoming the most practical long-term solution.
Cloud vs On-Premise: Which Is Best?
Cloud CCTV Is Best For:
• Small to medium businesses
• Multi-site operations
• Businesses wanting simple remote access
• AI detection features
• Low-risk enviroments
• Organisations prioritising flexibility and scalability
• Users wanting live security notifications
On-Premise CCTV Is Best For:
• High-security facilities
• Government and healthcare
• Aged care
• Industrial environments
• Businesses requiring strict control and reliability
• Advanced analytics
• Strong privacy controls
• Off-grid systems without internet
• Maximum security
Final Thoughts
Cloud CCTV systems continue to evolve rapidly, offering flexibility, AI analytics, and easier remote management.
However, on-premise systems still provide major advantages in:
• Reliability
• Data ownership
• Cybersecurity
• Long-term infrastructure control
The best solution is not simply the newest technology — it is the system that best matches your operational and security requirements.
For many organisations in 2026, the future of CCTV will likely be a carefully designed hybrid of both cloud and on-premise technologies.
How BAMSS Delivers You the Best of Both
• Choice between cloud-based, hybrid and on-premises CCTV security systems – allowing for full customization
• Create integrated personalised security systems (Combining CCTV + alarms + access control)
• Install 24/7 monitoring and rapid response protocols
• Remote access to your cameras via secure platforms
• Tailored solutions based on site and risk profile
It’s Not One-Size-Fits-All
Cloud isn’t always “better” — it’s just different. The right solution depends on risk level, compliance requirements, and the scale of operations. Expert guidance from a highly skilled security specialist is most essential. With years of in-the-field experience, the best advice we can give is simply to contact our team.
If you have any doubts as to which system is right for you, speak with our experts.
Don’t risk it. Call BAMSS on 1300 224 683.
