NVR vs. VSaaS: Evaluating Their Advantages and Disadvantages

Source: asmag.com

When considering video surveillance deployment, one of the initial questions that typically arises for the end user is whether to opt for an on-premises (NVR) or cloud-based (VSaaS) architecture. To make an informed decision on which one to implement, it's crucial to understand the pros and cons of each approach.

NVR Pros

In an NVR (Network Video Recorder) architecture, most of the necessary equipment for video surveillance is located on the premises of the end user. This includes cameras, a network video recorder (NVR) with server capabilities, video management and storage functions, and a network switch.

One advantage of this setup is that users can utilize their internal bandwidth resources and record high-resolution footage without encountering issues. "The architecture is more straightforward as most of the equipment is linked under the local network," noted Daniel Lim, Project Manager at Prowler International.

"The NVR architecture is entirely owned by the customer, and its functionality isn't dependent on an internet connection. This is especially significant in areas with unreliable connectivity," explained Rémy Javelle, Global Product Manager for Recording Solutions at Axis Communications.

"As a storage device, the NVR can be deployed directly alongside the camera to create a single system in the LAN (Local Area Network). It doesn't consume public network bandwidth when displaying images in high-resolution mode," added Wu Yang, Director of Cloud Business Department at Hikvision.

Additionally, users have full control over their video surveillance configurations. "It provides more control to the end user in terms of operations and administration, allowing for a richer user experience for operators and system administrators. You may also achieve deeper, native integrations with third-party hardware and software," said Fabliha Chowdhury, Stratocast Product Marketing Manager at Genetec.

NVR Cons

However, there are drawbacks to an NVR setup. Firstly, the cost of procuring on-premises equipment can be prohibitive for certain users. "You're looking at a significantly higher initial capital expenditure to deploy your system, and it involves more people and more time for installation, configuration, and maintenance. Therefore, it represents a larger commitment and higher upfront cost," explained Chowdhury.

"The required initial investment may be too high for smaller companies. These organizations must also consider the in-house knowledge and talent, as solution maintenance and troubleshooting need to be handled internally," noted Javelle.

Security is another major concern with an NVR setup. "There are three concerns with NVRs – theft, damage, and recording breakdowns. When a business is burglarized, chances are the NVR is often stolen. And if there's a fire, the recording device is often too damaged to be useful in determining whether it was set purposely and if so, who was the perpetrator," said R. Nandakumar, Founder of ATSS.

"NVR(s) can be susceptible to insider threats. Moreover, a cyber breach of a company's network could also lead to a loss of recording and management, incurring extraordinary costs for recovery and replacement," warned Chris Grniet, Regional VP for Security and Technology Consulting at Guidepost Solutions.

Finally, the NVR architecture offers less flexibility for adding or removing cameras, and it tends to limit simultaneous viewing and access to footage. In an NVR setup, only a limited number of cameras can be connected. Overall performance is subpar, especially when multiple users attempt to use it simultaneously, with only a limited number of simultaneous viewers allowed.

VSaaS Pros

The disadvantages of the NVR architecture highlight the benefits of VSaaS (Video Surveillance as a Service), which typically requires only cameras and a network switch or router to transmit video to the internet. Consequently, the initial setup cost for video surveillance is significantly reduced.

"There's minimal hardware usage, and VSaaS shifts the user to a predictable variable cost model, helping organizations leverage the solution's cost efficiency for better results," pointed out Keven Marier, Director of Technology Business Development at Milestone Systems.

"There's minimal to no installation and deployment cost, typically resulting in very low capital expenditure with a higher ROI. Any enterprise or organization can establish the surveillance system without purchasing expensive hardware. They only need to connect the IP cameras to the VSaaS cloud applications, and the storage cost is also lower compared to any NVR/DVR systems," added Ritesh Gupta, CTO of Product Engineering Services at Happiest Minds Technologies.