So let’s get into it, not all business security systems are priced the same. Understanding the main cost drivers will help you budget more accurately and avoid being surprised later.
Costs increase as you scale. A single café with four cameras pays far less than a 20-location chain with hundreds of devices. The key is finding a system that scales smoothly without forcing a complete rebuild every time you grow. Of course, if you choose the right data analytics system, the ROI also grows as you scale.
Do you need just video storage, or do you want smart analytics, AI search, POS integration, and real-time alerts? Each adds cost but also multiplies value. For example, a system that links refund data to video footage might prevent thousands in shrink every month.
Regulations and company policies affect how long you must keep footage. Some industries need 30–90 days, while cannabis or banking might require a year or more. The longer you store video, typically the higher the cost – especially with cloud solutions.
Heavily regulated industries like cannabis, finance, and food service often face stricter retention and reporting requirements. Compliance-grade systems may cost more, but can save you from regulatory fines.
DIY installs are cheaper but labor-intensive. On-prem systems often require professional integrators. Cloud VMS platforms like Solink minimize installation costs with remote onboarding and fast deployment, and an open system will allow you to leverage your existing camera infrastructure.
