DVR or Cloud Surveilance Which One Is Right For You

June 29th, 2022



Video surveillance has been used for many years. The first video surveillance systems were used by banks and retail establishments in the U.S. in the 1970s. Since that time, many businesses in CA and around the country have implemented these security measures to protect their employees, their customers, and their investments.

Today, businesses like gas stations, corporate offices, and restaurants use security cameras for security. But not all of them use these systems in the same way. Business owners who use surveillance have an option to record video using a hard-wired device (DVR), or through the internet. In order to discover which one is right for your business, you’ll need to know how they work, and how it can impact your business security.

What You Need To Know About DVR Surveillance

A digital video recorder (DVR) is a physical device that processes and stores the video signals that come from your security camera. Recorded video footage gets converted into a digital file and sent through wires to the DVR. This is a closed-circuit system that does not require an internet or network connection. Footage can only be accessed through a hard drive on a computer.

What You Need To Know About Cloud Surveillance

Cloud surveillance uses the internet for remote storage of video footage. There are no wires or physical equipment required; just an internet connection, which can be done via Wi-Fi. Videos that are captured on a cloud-based surveillance system are converted to a file and stored on an internet host. Typically, the host is a website that requires users to access the footage with a unique log in. Once a user is logged in, they can view all recorded videos and control cameras remotely.

The Differences To Be Aware Of

The similarity between DVR systems and cloud-based systems is that they both store the video footage from the surveillance system of your CA business. The difference is how you access and store the footage. DVR systems record footage but do not use internet storage or require internet connection; cameras are hard-wired to a physical device. Cloud surveillance does not require any type of physical device. All you need is an internet connection and you can view footage from your smartphone, tablet, or computer.

What Does it Mean for Your Business?

When using a DVR surveillance system for your business security, there are some service and maintenance issues you must be aware of. Limited storage capacity, overheating, and improper installation can compromise your recording capabilities and accessibility. With a cloud-based system, you must be sure that cyber-security measures are in place. This includes:

  • Secure network connections
  • Anti-virus protection, firewalls, and malware
  • Encrypted data
  • Password protection
  • Software updates

 

If you have questions about your business security needs, contact a trusted security vendor. A good vendor in CA will take the time to discover which type of system will work best for you. Don’t leave your business protection to chance. Contact us today.

What Our Customers Say

"I had the Alibi system installed several years ago. It has functioned flawlessly. The image quality is exellent both night and day and in all weather conditions. I particularly like the replay (which can be set at various speeds) and zoom functions of the system. Tech support from Crimefreeliving has been excellent. I have received quick responses to questions, and timely home visits — as when I changed IP carriers and my Alibi system needed to be reset. I have recommended Crimefreeliving to several friends."

Rich

"As a small business owner here in Chico we definitely saw the need for video surveillance. After expressing our needs and concerns Tim did an excellent job getting us set up with the set up with the appropriate equipment. He really took the time to address our concerns in a very friendly, professional and knowledgeable manner. I highly recommend Tim for all of your business and residential video surveillance needs."

Ron H., Owner/Auto Doctor

"I have to say I love having my security cameras at my home. Tim Truby did a wonderful job of installing the five cameras. He is very neat and cleaned everything up after the installation. He explained to me how to operate the monitor, my phone and IPad. However, I have had to call Tim because I'm not tech savvy and forget what he has told me. He usually just helps me over the phone and then all is well. I'm 80 years old and enjoy the comfort of knowing I have these security cameras."

Gloria

"Tim Truby designed and installed a 32 camera system for us here at the Butte County Mosquito and Vector Control District. We had received several other quotes from security system vendors, but Tim’s quote was the least expensive. Tim also installed the system quickly and has always been available when we needed him. We are very happy with our security camera system and we can highly recommend Tim Truby for all of your surveillance system needs."

D. Weseman, Butte County Mosquito and Vector Control District

Crime Free Living updated our old video system with a new 16 Channel HD Alibi Video Security System. The old system had been added onto by different installers which resulted in a cabling mess. There were cables that worked and cables that went nowhere. It was a mess. Tim sorted it all out and installed cameras that are very clear. He also installed a monitor for our cashiers to watch hidden areas, a monitor to watch the entry door, and a monitor that allows employees to watch the outside parking and gas pump area. All work was done on time and very professional! Will always recommend Tim and Crime Free Living.

S. AM PM Chico Arco Station

"I had Tim install an Alibi Video Security System at my residence and a couple business locations. The remote view option is invaluable to absentee owners or anyone who travels a lot. The clarity and quality of the cameras have allowed for viewing employee theft. The evidence provided from the HD video cameras was fantastic! Tim was professional and provided extra value from his law enforcement background."

J. Folsom Arco Station

"Tim, I want to thank you again for doing such a fantastic job on installing a wireless IP security camera system at our dream home. The extra time that you took to hide wires, and install a clean, professional system is much appreciated. I still can’t believe the clarity, quality, and ease of use of this new system. I wished that I would have met you before our original inferior system was installed by another company. Now, whether I am at home, or monitoring the system from around the world, I know that my home and family are safe and sound."

John M.

"In April of 2017, my husband and I made a phone call to Crime Free Living that turned out to be a smart and wise decision. Amazingly, in just a few hours, Tim installed four Dome Security Cameras, weatherproof enclosures, and hooked up into our home a 23" Full HD Widescreen Security Monitor. Even more than his professional expertise was the time spent with us in making sure that this system was working correctly and properly installed on our phones so that anywhere in our travels we can monitor our new home in Magalia."

Tieka and Don S.

"I have been using Crime Free Living for the last couple years ar work and at home and I really recommend this product. Tim is a very good service provider. If he can't figure it out, he's got good tech support with the system that he offers."

Gary D.

"I have known Tim for over 10 years. To date, Time with Crime Free Living has installed two separate surveillance systems for my company. With each system, Tim has listened to my needs and custom dsigned surveillance systems for my specific needs and within my budget. The equipment used is always state of the art, the workmanship is top notch, and Tim is the example of trustworthy. I would recommend him for any job."

Steve D., Down Range Indoor Training Center

images Certifications & Training

With 16 years of experience in law enforcement, Tim Truby, CEO, is fully certified in video surveillance and training.

  • Certified Advanced Crime Prevention Specialist
  • Academy Instructor Certification
  • California POST Certification in Specialized Surveillance Equipment
  • California POST Certification in Basic Crime Prevention
    • Advanced Crime Prevention through Environmental Design
    • Certified Alibi Security Dealer
    • Enhanced Risk and Threat Assessment (FEMA)
    • Incident Command System (100 & 200)
    • Certified Cognitech Video Forensic Investigator
    • Neighborhood Watch Toolkit Trainer
    • Computer Crimes/Investigations
    • Domestic Crisis for Crisis Negotiators
    Call (530) 327-7268