Is Cloud Storage or Local Storage Better? | Security Camera Guide

If you're setting up a security camera system, you need to decide: is cloud storage or local storage better for your needs? The short answer is that cloud storage works best for businesses that want remote access and hands-off maintenance. Local storage suits businesses that prefer one-time costs and full control over their footage.

Both options have clear pros and cons. Your choice depends on your budget, tech comfort level, and how you plan to use your security footage. Let's break down each option so you can make the right call for your business.

What Is Cloud Storage for Security Cameras?

Cloud storage sends your camera footage over the internet to secure off-site servers. You can watch live video and recorded clips from your phone, tablet, or computer. Popular cloud systems like Verkada handle everything for you. They store footage, run updates, and keep your system secure.

Think of it like email. Your messages don't live on your computer. They live on Google's or Microsoft's servers. You can access them from anywhere with an internet connection. Cloud camera storage works the same way.

What Is Local Storage for Security Cameras?

Local storage keeps all your footage on-site. Your cameras connect to a Network Video Recorder (NVR) or Digital Video Recorder (DVR). This device sits in your building and stores video on hard drives. You control the hardware, the footage, and who can access it.

Local systems have been around for decades. Many businesses still use them because they're familiar and don't require internet connectivity to record.

Is Cloud Storage or Local Storage Better for Remote Access?

Cloud storage wins here. You can view your cameras from anywhere in the world. Just open an app on your phone and you're connected. There's no VPN setup, no port forwarding, and no IT headaches.

With local storage, remote access is possible but tricky. You need to configure your network properly. Many business owners find this frustrating. If your internet goes down, you lose remote viewing until it comes back.

For business owners who travel or manage multiple locations, cloud access saves time and stress.

Is Cloud Storage or Local Storage Better for Cost?

Local storage costs more upfront. You pay for NVR hardware, hard drives, and installation. However, you own the equipment. There are no monthly fees unless you add professional monitoring.

Cloud storage spreads costs over time. You pay a monthly or annual subscription. This covers storage, software updates, and technical support. The upfront cost is lower, but fees add up over years.

Here's a simple comparison:

• Local NVR system: $3,000-$10,000+ upfront, minimal ongoing costs
• Cloud system: Lower upfront cost, $15-$50+ per camera per month

Think about your 5-year total cost. For some businesses, cloud subscriptions end up costing more. For others, the convenience and reduced maintenance justify the ongoing expense.

Is Cloud Storage or Local Storage Better for Security?

This depends on how you define security. Cloud systems store footage off-site. If someone breaks in and steals your NVR, you still have all your video evidence safe in the cloud. Cloud providers also encrypt your data and run regular security updates.

Local storage gives you complete physical control. Your footage never leaves your building. This matters for businesses with strict data privacy requirements. However, if a thief takes your recorder or a fire destroys your server room, you lose everything.

According to research from UNC Charlotte's Department of Criminal Justice & Criminology, about 60% of convicted burglars would seek an alternative target if they found alarms or cameras present. Having reliable footage storage ensures you capture evidence when you need it most.

Is Cloud Storage or Local Storage Better for Maintenance?

Cloud systems require almost zero maintenance from you. The provider handles software updates, storage management, and system monitoring. When something needs attention, they fix it automatically.

Local systems need hands-on care. Hard drives fail every 3-5 years. Software needs manual updates. You're responsible for backing up critical footage. Many businesses don't have IT staff for these tasks.

If you want a "set it and forget it" system, cloud storage delivers that peace of mind.

Hybrid Storage: The Best of Both Worlds

Many modern camera systems offer hybrid storage. Cameras store footage locally on the device itself. They also sync important clips to the cloud. This gives you fast local access plus off-site backup.

Hybrid systems keep recording even if your internet goes down. Once the connection returns, footage uploads to the cloud automatically. This approach works well for businesses that want reliability and flexibility.

At Wired, we specialize in commercial security camera installation using Verkada's hybrid cloud platform. These systems combine on-camera storage with secure cloud backup. You get the best features of both approaches.

Which Storage Option Is Right for Your Business?

Consider cloud storage if you:

• Want to view cameras from anywhere on your phone
• Manage multiple business locations
• Prefer monthly payments over large upfront costs
• Don't have IT staff to maintain equipment
• Need off-site backup to protect against theft or damage

Consider local storage if you:

• Have strict data privacy requirements
• Prefer one-time purchases over subscriptions
• Have reliable IT support in-house
• Don't need frequent remote access
• Have unreliable internet at your location

The Bottom Line

So, is cloud storage or local storage better? For most Albuquerque businesses in 2025, cloud or hybrid systems offer the best value. The convenience, reliability, and reduced maintenance outweigh the ongoing subscription costs.

That said, every business is different. The right choice depends on your specific situation, budget, and security goals.

Need Help Deciding?

Wired has helped hundreds of New Mexico businesses choose the right security camera storage solution. Our team can assess your needs and recommend a system that fits your budget and goals. Contact us today for a free consultation.