Traditional security methods are no longer enough to protect businesses from theft, vandalism, and unauthorized access. As technology advances, companies are turning to smarter, more efficient solutions to keep their assets safe. Virtual guarding is transforming the way businesses monitor their properties, offering real-time security, proactive threat detection, and cost-effective security like never before. In this guide, we’ll explore how virtual guarding works, its key benefits, and why it’s becoming the preferred choice for businesses looking to enhance their security strategy.
Virtual guarding is a security solution that uses AI-powered security cameras, remote monitoring, and real-time alerts to detect and prevent threats without the need for on-site security guards. It combines live video monitoring, motion detection, and advanced analytics to identify suspicious activity and trigger immediate responses, such as automated alarms, two-way audio deterrents, or direct communication with law enforcement. Virtual guarding is a cost-effective alternative to traditional security, providing 24/7 protection for businesses, warehouses, retail stores, and other high-risk locations.
Who needs virtual guarding?
Virtual guarding is a cost-effective, scalable security solution that benefits businesses and organizations across various industries. Any company that requires 24/7 security, real-time threat detection, or remote monitoring can improve security with virtual guarding. Here’s who benefits the most:
1. Retail stores & shopping centers
Retailers face shoplifting, employee theft, and after-hours break-ins. Virtual guarding helps monitor entrances, exits, and high-theft areas while integrating with POS systems to flag suspicious activity.
2. Warehouses & distribution centers
Large facilities with high-value inventory are prime targets for theft. Virtual guarding provides remote monitoring, access control integration, and AI-powered motion detection to prevent internal and external shrinkage.
3. Construction sites
With expensive equipment and materials left overnight, construction sites are vulnerable to trespassing and theft. Virtual guards can trigger real-time alarms and use two-way audio to deter intruders before damage occurs.
4. Apartment complexes & gated communities
Property managers use virtual guarding to enhance resident safety, prevent unauthorized entry, and monitor shared spaces. Remote guards can issue alerts and provide real-time responses to security incidents.
5. Car dealerships & auto storage lots
Vehicle lots are often targeted for vandalism and theft. Virtual guarding monitors perimeters, entry points, and high-value vehicles, ensuring quick action if suspicious activity is detected.
6. Healthcare facilities & hospitals
Hospitals and clinics require security for sensitive areas, restricted access zones, and patient safety. Virtual guards help prevent unauthorized access to medical supplies, data breaches, and internal theft.
7. Financial institutions & banks
Banks and ATMs need continuous monitoring to prevent fraud, burglary, and vandalism. Virtual guarding provides instant alerts, real-time video verification, and proactive deterrence measures.
8. Industrial sites & manufacturing plants
Factories with valuable machinery, tools, and raw materials benefit from remote monitoring to prevent sabotage, internal theft, and trespassing. AI-powered security helps identify suspicious patterns before incidents occur.
9. Hotels & hospitality businesses
Hotels use virtual guarding to monitor lobbies, hallways, and restricted areas, ensuring guest and employee safety while preventing unauthorized access to back offices, storage rooms, and cash-handling locations.
10. Small businesses & office buildings
Businesses without the budget for on-site security can benefit from remote monitoring and AI-driven security alerts. Virtual guarding helps protect valuable assets, confidential information, and employees without hiring full-time security staff.
Virtual guarding vs. on-site security
Businesses looking for security solutions often compare virtual guarding vs. on-site security guards. While both options provide protection, they differ in cost, efficiency, and overall effectiveness. Here’s how they stack up against each other.
Cost effectiveness
Virtual guarding typically has lower costs since there is no need to pay hourly wages, benefits, or overtime. It provides 24/7 monitoring at a fraction of the cost of hiring multiple security guards. AI-powered alerts eliminate the need for constant human supervision.
On-site security comes with higher costs due to salaries, benefits, and training. More guards may be needed for large properties, increasing expenses. Since a single guard cannot monitor all areas at once, businesses may need multiple personnel to ensure full coverage.
Coverage and monitoring
Virtual guarding covers multiple locations at once, making it ideal for large properties. AI-powered cameras provide continuous monitoring and never lose focus. It integrates with access control, alarms, and two-way audio for enhanced protection.
On-site security is limited to where the guard is stationed. Human error is always a factor, as guards may become distracted or fatigued. A single guard cannot monitor all areas simultaneously, leading to security blind spots.
Threat detection and response times
Virtual guarding uses AI-powered alerts to detect suspicious activity instantly. It allows for immediate responses via two-way audio or direct law enforcement alerts. This proactive approach prevents incidents before they escalate.
On-site security has a delayed response since guards must react after spotting an issue. Physical limitations may prevent a single guard from reaching a threat in time. Guards may also lack the tools to prevent escalation without external support.
Safety and liability risk
Virtual guarding eliminates physical risk since there are no security personnel on-site. AI-driven security removes human bias from threat detection. It also provides recorded evidence for investigations and liability protection.
On-site security poses a higher personal risk as guards may face physical confrontations. Human error and judgment mistakes can lead to costly consequences. If an altercation occurs on the premises, the business may face potential liability issues.
Integration with smart technology
Virtual guarding works with AI, access control, motion detection, and alarms. Cloud-based storage ensures video evidence is securely saved. Security footage and alerts can be accessed remotely, allowing real-time monitoring.
On-site security relies on human observation and reaction time. Guards are limited in their ability to track multiple access points at once. Without external cameras or technology, guards cannot always record incidents for later review.
Final verdict:
| Feature | Virtual Guarding | On-Site Security |
|---|---|---|
| Cost-Effective | Lower cost, 24/7 monitoring | Expensive with salaries and overtime |
| Coverage and Monitoring | AI-powered, no blind spots | Limited to where the guard is |
| Threat Response Time | Instant alerts, real-time deterrence | Reaction-based, may be slow |
| Safety and Liability | No physical risk, no bias | High risk, liability concerns |
| Technology Integration | AI-driven, remote access | Limited by human monitoring |
How Solink relates to virtual guarding
Solink is not technically virtual guarding in the traditional sense, but it provides many of the same benefits through its cloud-based video security and AI-powered monitoring.
Traditional virtual guarding services often include remote security personnel actively monitoring live camera feeds, engaging with intruders via two-way audio, and calling law enforcement when needed. Solink, on the other hand, focuses on intelligent video security, automated alerts, and AI-driven analytics to help businesses detect and respond to security threats.
Solink is best described as an AI-powered video security and analytics platform rather than a full virtual guarding service. It provides many of the same security advantages—real-time monitoring, automated alerts, and theft prevention—without requiring live remote guards. For businesses that need proactive, AI-driven security without the added cost of remote personnel, Solink is a highly effective alternative to traditional virtual guarding.
For businesses that do still require a person actively monitoring security footage, Solink offers a video wall feature that allows security personnel to view multiple camera feeds in real time from a single dashboard. This ensures that if a dedicated security team is needed, they have access to a centralized monitoring system with AI-enhanced alerts to help them focus on the most critical events. The combination of AI-driven automation and human oversight gives businesses a flexible, cost-effective alternative to traditional virtual guarding while maintaining high levels of security.
Is virtual guarding right for your business?
Virtual guarding is an effective security solution for many businesses, but its suitability depends on your specific security needs, budget, and operational structure. If your business requires 24/7 security, proactive threat detection, and cost-effective security monitoring, virtual guarding can be a powerful alternative to traditional on-site guards.
When virtual guarding is a good fit
You need around-the-clock security but want to reduce costs – Virtual guarding provides continuous monitoring at a fraction of the cost of hiring on-site security guards.
Your business has multiple locations or large areas to cover – AI-powered cameras and remote monitoring can secure wide spaces without the need for multiple guards.
You want a proactive security system – Virtual guarding doesn’t just record incidents; it can trigger alarms, send real-time alerts, and deter intruders with two-way audio.
You require integration with existing security technology – Virtual guarding works with access control, AI motion detection, and smart security for a more comprehensive security approach.
You operate in a high-theft or high-risk industry – Retail stores, warehouses, auto dealerships, and construction sites benefit from remote monitoring and automated alerts to prevent theft before it happens.
When on-site security might be necessary
Your business requires physical intervention – If you need guards to handle in-person incidents, such as detaining suspects, virtual guarding alone may not be enough.
You have a high volume of customer interactions – Locations that require customer service and security presence (such as hotels, event venues, or high-end retail stores) may still benefit from a physical security team.
You prefer a human presence for deterrence – Some businesses value the psychological effect of having visible guards on-site to discourage criminal activity.
Final takeaway
Virtual guarding is a cost-effective, scalable, and AI-powered solution that enhances security for businesses looking to reduce theft, monitor multiple locations, and improve response times. If you still require human oversight, Solink’s video wall feature allows security personnel to monitor multiple locations remotely while leveraging AI-driven alerts and smart analytics. For most businesses, virtual guarding offers a modern and efficient security alternative that can significantly improve protection while reducing costs.
Book a demo to learn more about how Solink’s AI can help you stay ahead of security threats.
Schedule a product demo with our experts
