Surveillance cameras store images in different ways. This can be done, for example, on an HD recorder, SD card, internally or via cloud storage. The advantage of cloud storage is that images are retained for a long time and can be retrieved again. However, this does come at a cost, but there is also the free cloud storage.
Cloud storage explained
A cloud storage is different from a NAS server. Data is stored on a NAS server and serves as a backup. The NAS is always in the home or business. One or more drives of the NAS may fail, so it is important to replace them in a timely manner, otherwise all data will be lost. A cloud server runs on large servers from external providers. Multiple backups are made, so the files can always be retrieved, even if something goes wrong. With cloud storage you are dependent on the provider: if it stops working, the files are also gone.
Cloud storage for surveillance cameras: the benefits
The advantage of cloud storage for surveillance cameras is that there is often a lot of storage space available. This depends on the chosen subscription. With free cloud storage, the storage space is limited. Another advantage is that this method of storage is safe and reliable. The provider uses multiple servers and ensures a good backup. The chance of files being lost or stolen is virtually nil. This makes cloud storage more secure than many think.
Surveillance camera including cloud
Nowadays, security cameras are sold including cloud storage. These are really not expensive and are therefore also available to private individuals. For example, the WiFi IP panorama camera with the cloud storage function (Dropbox). The camera not only stores images but also provides extra secure storage. More and more companies are also using surveillance cameras with cloud storage. It is important to choose a good and reliable provider.
The best cloud storage for surveillance cameras
Plenty of surveillance cameras with cloud storage function , but which cloud storage is the best? There are various providers, from paid to free. Well-known free providers are Dropbox, iCloud (Apple) and Google cloud. Not all of them are suitable for storing surveillance images. Free storage for surveillance cameras is available at Nest (up to 3 hours of photos and videos) and D-Link (up to one day). At Arlo and Foscam it is possible to store for seven days, but this stops after 1-3 months.
Paid cloud storage
It is best to go for a paid cloud storage. The longer you want to store the images, the higher the subscription costs. In the past, Nest was one of the more expensive providers, but nowadays they have significantly reduced their subscription costs. Looking at the price for 30 days of storage, Arlo Smart is the cheapest, followed by Eufycam and Ring. The cloud storage from providers Somfy, Foscam, Ezviz, D-Link and Cleverdog all costs above €10. Nest also has a subscription with 60 days of storage. Only Motorola's Hubble comes with a storage of five days, no more and no less. In general, paying per year is cheaper than paying for cloud storage per month.
