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Top ranked cloud-based security camera systems

April 24, 2025
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The cloud is no longer optional, it’s the backbone of modern business. Over 60% of all corporate data now lives in cloud storage, and by 2025, global spending on cloud services is expected to hit $1.3 trillion. As companies prioritize flexibility, speed, and remote access, the rise of the cloud-based security camera system is a natural evolution.

Instead of relying on aging DVRs or manual downloads, businesses are turning to cloud platforms to monitor locations, investigate incidents, and manage security across multiple sites all from a single login. These systems are easier to scale, simpler to manage, and more secure by design.

In this article, you’ll learn what sets cloud-based camera systems apart, which features matter most, and how to choose the right fit for your business.

What is a cloud-based security camera system?

A cloud-based security camera system is a modern way for businesses to record, store, and access video footage without relying on on-site servers or DVRs.

Here’s how a cloud-based security camera system works:
  • Cameras capture video like usual.
  • Instead of saving that footage locally (like on a hard drive), it’s sent over the internet to secure cloud storage.
  • You can then access, search, and manage that video from any device — whether you’re in the office, at home, or on the go.
Think of it like using Google Drive instead of a USB stick. The footage is always backed up, always accessible, and always up to date.
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The path forward: Steps to modernize security and maximize video-driven value

Most businesses are sitting on a goldmine of untapped video data, limited by outdated systems that keep video siloed and reactive. Download our guide on how to get more from your video data.
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Top features to look for in a cloud-based security camera system

Not all cloud-based camera systems are created equal. The best platforms offer more than just remote access, they help you work smarter, resolve incidents faster, and protect your bottom line. Here’s what to prioritize:

1. Remote access from any device anywhere

View live and recorded footage from your phone, tablet, or desktop. Whether you’re managing one store or 500, access should be fast, reliable, and secure.
banking-remote-monitoring

2. Unlimited and scalable cloud storage

Choose systems that store footage in the cloud with flexible retention periods. You shouldn’t have to worry about running out of space or losing video after a few days.

3. Smart search and video analytics

Don’t waste time scrubbing through footage. Look for features like motion filters, event tagging, and AI-powered search that help you find the exact moment something happened, instantly.

4. Easy integration with business tools

The best systems connect with your POS, alarm, sensor, or access control data to give you full context. You can investigate transactions, door events, or alerts with side-by-side video.

5. Multi-site and user management

If you operate multiple locations, your system should let you manage all of them in one dashboard. Assign roles, permissions, and camera views based on job function or region.

6. Proactive alerts and notifications

Get notified when cameras go offline, motion is detected after hours, or specific zones are triggered. Alerts help you act fast and stay ahead of potential issues.

7. Connects with your existing hardware

Not ready to rip and replace? Look for systems that integrate with the cameras you already own. You’ll save time, lower costs, and still unlock the benefits of the cloud.

8. AI-powered intelligence

AI can save hours of work. Advanced platforms use it to detect unusual activity, flag risky behavior, or identify patterns in customer movement. Great for loss prevention, safety, and service monitoring.

All the benefits of a cloud-based security camera system

Switching to a cloud-based system doesn’t just change where your video is stored—it transforms how you run your business. Here’s what you gain when you move your cameras to the cloud:
Anytime, anywhere access means you can check in from your phone, tablet, or laptop—whether you’re on the road, at home, or managing multiple locations. No more being tied to the back office.

Faster incident resolution saves you time when something goes wrong. Need to investigate a theft or a customer complaint? Search, clip, and share footage in seconds—no more scrubbing through hours of video.

Lower IT and maintenance costs come from eliminating on-site servers, reducing manual updates, and minimizing service calls. The cloud handles storage, backups, and software updates so you don’t have to.

Multi-location management gets easier with centralized dashboards and user controls. Set permissions, standardize setups, and support your teams remotely.

Stronger security and compliance protect your footage and your brand. Cloud providers offer encrypted video, secure access controls, and automatic backups that meet modern standards like SOC 2 and GDPR.

Scalability means you can grow without headaches. Add cameras, users, or new locations quickly, without needing new hardware or reconfiguring your whole system.

Smarter insights with AI and analytics turn your cameras into business tools. Detect patterns, flag anomalies, and identify risks early to prevent loss and improve operations.

Real-time alerts and notifications keep you in the loop. Get notified when motion is detected after hours, zones are triggered, or cameras go offline—so you can act fast.

Seamless data integration gives you full context by connecting video with your POS, alarms, access control, and sensors. You’ll see not just what happened, but why.

Peace of mind is the biggest gain. With secure, reliable, and accessible video, you stay in control—whether you’re on-site or off the clock.
See how McDonald's benefits from cloud-based security
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Types of businesses that benefit most

Cloud-based security camera systems aren’t just for big corporations or tech-savvy startups. They’re a smart fit for any business that needs visibility, accountability, and control—especially across multiple locations.

Retail stores use cloud video to reduce theft, monitor customer service, and validate transactions. Integrating footage with POS data helps loss prevention teams pinpoint issues faster and protect margins.

Quick-service restaurants (QSRs) rely on cameras to ensure food safety, manage high staff turnover, and handle disputes quickly. Managers can review incidents remotely and coach teams without being on-site.

Franchises and multi-location brands benefit from centralized access and consistent controls. Corporate teams can monitor brand standards, performance, and compliance across every store from a single dashboard.

Warehouses and logistics hubs use cloud video to track inventory movement, monitor loading docks, and improve workplace safety. Real-time alerts and mobile access help supervisors stay in the loop without being on the floor.

Banks and financial institutions need secure, compliant video systems they can trust. Cloud platforms offer encrypted storage, access logging, and long-term retention—without the burden of local servers.

Healthcare clinics and offices use cloud-based systems to protect patient areas, secure entrances, and ensure staff safety. With encrypted access and audit trails, they meet privacy regulations without compromising visibility.

Educational and training centers monitor facility access, support emergency planning, and improve operational oversight—especially across campuses or multiple buildings.

Cannabis retailers and distributors often face strict regulatory requirements. Cloud systems make it easier to maintain compliance, manage video retention, and prepare for audits.

Best cloud-based camera system platforms

There’s no shortage of providers offering cloud-based video solutions, but not all platforms are built with business in mind. Here are some of the top players and what makes each one unique.

What sets Solink apart?

Solink works with the cameras you already have, so there’s no need to replace your entire setup. Whether you’re running analog, IP, or hybrid systems, Solink brings it all into one cloud-based dashboard. That flexibility saves time, reduces capital costs, and lets you upgrade at your own pace.

Support is a partnership, not a ticket system. Solink’s customer success team helps you get up and running quickly, guides your team through onboarding, and is always available when something comes up. You’ll work with real people who know your business, not a chatbot or outsourced queue.

The interface is built for humans. Whether you’re an IT admin or a shift supervisor, the platform is clean, intuitive, and easy to use. Search for incidents, share clips, or set up alerts in seconds. No long training sessions, no confusing menus, just tools that work the way you expect.

Solink connects video with your business data in ways that other platforms can’t. View footage side-by-side with transaction logs, access control events, or environmental sensors. Filter by terminal, employee, time, or motion. Spot patterns. Solve issues faster. Use video not just for security but for insight.

What about cloud NVRs?

If you’re exploring cloud-based systems, you’ve probably come across the term cloud NVR, short for Network Video Recorder. It’s essentially a digital version of a traditional NVR, but hosted in the cloud instead of a back room or local server rack.

Cloud NVRs offer many of the same benefits as full cloud-based platforms: remote access, easier storage, and reduced on-site maintenance. But they also come with a few unique considerations, especially around how footage is captured, stored, and accessed across multiple locations.

The key is understanding where a cloud NVR fits within the larger shift to cloud video. It’s not always a one-size-fits-all solution and in some cases, it may be a stepping stone rather than the final destination.

If you’re weighing cloud NVRs against full cloud-native systems, there are a few trade-offs worth exploring in more depth. We break those down in a separate guide to help you decide what’s best for your business structure and tech stack. Click here to see it.

Understanding Cloud IP security cameras

When researching cloud-based systems, you’ll likely come across the term cloud IP security cameras. These are internet-connected cameras that transmit footage directly to secure cloud storage, no DVRs, no physical servers, no on-site downloads required.

Unlike older systems that store footage locally, cloud IP cameras make it easy to monitor your business from anywhere, store video offsite, and integrate with tools like POS systems, alarms, or access control platforms. They’re especially popular for growing businesses that need flexibility, faster access to footage, and fewer infrastructure headaches.

Many companies are moving from traditional setups to cloud-connected IP systems to reduce complexity, improve visibility, and scale more efficiently. These cameras are one of the main reasons cloud adoption is accelerating across industries like retail, hospitality, finance, and logistics.

If you’re exploring how cloud IP cameras stack up against traditional models, or what features matter most when choosing one, we cover that in more detail in a dedicated article that you can click here and see.

Considering NAS vs cloud-based storage for video security

When evaluating a cloud-based camera system, it’s helpful to understand how storage setup can impact performance, accessibility, and long-term cost. While most systems store video directly in the cloud, some also rely on local storage through network attached storage, or NAS.

NAS refers to a physical storage device installed at your business. It acts like a dedicated local server, saving video footage onsite. This can help reduce internet usage and provide faster access to recent video, but it also requires upfront investment, ongoing maintenance, and physical protection.

Cloud storage, on the other hand, saves video offsite on secure servers. It gives you access to footage from anywhere, automatically backs up data, and removes the need for managing local hardware. It’s a strong fit for businesses that want remote access, simplified IT, and scalable storage.

Some solutions, like Solink, use a hybrid approach—combining the reliability of local NAS with the flexibility of cloud access. This gives businesses the best of both worlds without having to manage the complexity themselves.

If you’re trying to decide which storage option is right for your business or want to learn more about how hybrid systems work, click here to learn more.

Cloud-based security camera pricing models you can expect

Pricing for cloud-based security camera systems varies, but the structure is usually more predictable and scalable than traditional setups. Instead of one big upfront investment in servers and storage, you’re typically paying for flexibility, access, and ongoing support.

Most systems use a subscription-based model, where you pay monthly or annually for features like cloud storage, software access, and system updates. Here’s what you’re really paying for—and what to look out for:

Camera count and location size are usually the first cost factors. Some providers charge per camera, while others charge by site or square footage. The more cameras or locations you add, the higher the price—but also the greater the potential return in visibility and efficiency.

Storage length and video quality also play a role. Basic plans may store video for 7 or 14 days, while enterprise plans can offer 30, 60, or even 90 days of high-definition footage. Expect to pay more for longer retention and higher resolution.

Advanced features and integrations—like AI-powered search, POS or sensor integration, real-time alerts, and analytics dashboards—can affect pricing. These tools are often bundled into mid-tier or premium plans, but are worth the investment if you’re looking to solve problems, not just store footage.

Support and onboarding services may also be part of the package. Some providers include setup and ongoing support at no extra cost, while others offer tiered service levels or charge for professional installation.

Flexibility with existing hardware can save significant money. Providers like Solink that work with your current cameras help reduce upfront costs and make it easier to transition without starting from scratch.

Cost savings and time savings with Solink

We analyzed cost savings and time savings with Solink for you -- see what you're missing out on in your business...
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Why businesses are choosing cloud over on-premise

More and more businesses are moving away from traditional on-premise camera systems. It’s not just about saving space—it’s about gaining speed, flexibility, and control.

Cloud systems eliminate the need for on-site servers, reduce maintenance costs, and make it easier to access footage from anywhere. They also update automatically, scale with your business, and stay secure with built-in encryption and compliance tools.

Compared to older systems, the cloud offers a smarter, leaner way to manage video across one location or hundreds. Want to dig deeper into how cloud compares to on-prem? Click here to see the article we’ve written around it.

Frequently asked questions about cloud-based security camera systems

Can I keep my existing cameras and still move to the cloud?
Yes, many cloud platforms (like Solink) are designed to work with your existing IP or analog cameras. This means you don’t need to rip and replace your entire system. You get the benefits of the cloud without the cost of starting over.

Cloud security vs traditional CCTV comparison. What’s the difference?
Traditional CCTV systems record video to on-site DVRs or NVRs. That means limited storage, outdated hardware over time, and you usually have to be on-site to review footage. Expanding coverage often requires buying more recorders, which quickly drives up costs.

Cloud security systems slip that model. Video is stored securely off-site and accessible from anywhere – phone, tablet, or laptop. Storage is virtually unlimited (depending on which investment you choose), updates happen automatically, and integrations with technologies like POS or alarms give you real operational insights, not just video clips.

Cost is another big difference. CCTV can seem cheaper upfront, but maintenance, replacements, and storage add up fast. Cloud security spreads costs out with subscription pricing, eliminates bulky hardware, and even lets you connect existing analog cameras alongside new digital ones.

How hard is it to switch from an on-premise system to a cloud-based one?
The transition is simpler than most people expect. A good provider handles the heavy lifting, from onboarding to system configuration. So you can keep your operations running without disruption. Most installations can happen without downtime.

are ideal for businesses with more than one location. You can monitor all sites from a single dashboard, standardize camera views and alerts, and manage users across your entire team, without being on-site.

Is my video data safe in the cloud?
Yes, cloud providers use encrypted storage, secure access controls, and regular software updates to protect your footage. Look for vendors with SOC 2 compliance or similar certifications to ensure industry-standard security.

Do I need fast internet at every location?
A reliable internet connection is important, but you don’t need high-speed fiber at every site. Most cloud systems are optimized for real-world bandwidth, and some providers even offer local caching or hybrid options to balance performance and cost.

How long can I store video in the cloud?
That depends on your provider and your plan. Many systems offer storage options ranging from 7 to 90 days, with the ability to archive or extend storage based on your needs or compliance requirements.

What’s the biggest benefit of switching to cloud?
Speed and simplicity. You can access footage from anywhere, resolve incidents faster, reduce IT overhead, and scale easily as your business grows. It’s about more than storing video. It’s about gaining control.

How long does it take to install a cloud-based security system?
Installing a cloud-based security system is usually much faster than setting up a traditional CCTV network. Instead of wiring bulky servers and complex on-site storage, most of the work comes down to connecting your cameras and linking them to the cloud platform.

For many businesses, installation can be completed in just a day or two – sometimes even less if you’re using existing cameras. Adding new digital cameras might take longer depending on the size of your space, but it’s still quicker and less disruptive than older systems.

The real time-saver comes after installation. With cloud video, there’s no waiting for technicians to update software or fix servers. Updates happen automatically, and you can access your system from anywhere right away.

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