Video Surveillance as a Service (VSaaS) provides Cloud-based solutions that are scalable, cost-effective and advanced. Not all solutions are the same so asking the right questions is crucial. Here's our FAQ to help.
Considering a move to cloud-based video surveillance?
It’s a smart choice for modern security, offering flexibility and cost-effectiveness.
But with so many options out there, how do you pick the VSaaS solution for your specific requirements?
We’ve put this FAQ together to provide clear answers to the most important questions you should be asking. Get ready to make an informed decision and find the perfect fit for your security needs.
Many VSaaS companies say their product is Cloud-based, but often still depend on local storage with cloud access.
Cloud managed systems have an on-prem NVR with Cloud Access. True Cloud solutions are designed to have all data storage and analytics in the cloud. Both options have their advantages and disadvantages - which is why SEiNG offers a range of connectivity options so you can choose which suits you:
The more flexible the video surveillance as a service is when it comes to compatible hardware, the easier it will be for you to move away from it should you need to.
Some VSaaS systems only work with proprietary hardware; this not only results in higher costs, as you have to rip and replace your CCTV cameras, but if you move away, you then will have to replace your cameras again. This is often referred to as "vendor lock-in" or "hostage-as-a-service".
As SEiNG is an end-to-end open platform, you won't be locked into the system. SEiNG works with your existing cameras (or new ones of your choice if they need replacing), meaning you won't be locked into the system. Check out our supported cameras.
Should you choose to move away from SEiNG in future, we'll export your user data into a suitable format free of charge. This is in contrast to other providers which may charge for this service.
Many VSaaS platforms offer some level of compatibility with third-party cameras; however, certain providers—such as Verkada and Avigilon Alta—restrict advanced features to their own hardware. This is especially true for AI analytics, as many “cloud-based” platforms actually process footage on the camera itself. Using a third-party camera in these cases can prevent access to these analytics.
In contrast, hardware-agnostic cloud CCTV platforms work seamlessly with any camera. SEiNG, for example, supports all ONVIF- or RTSP-compliant cameras, providing full VMS functionality. This includes both legacy devices and modern IP or cloud-connected cameras.
Therefore if you want to take advantage of the full features of a Cloud VMS, without replacing hardware, SEiNG is a strong choice.
Most Cloud solutions will allow you to easily scale your VSaaS system. But it's worth checking what the process is for this.
As SEiNG is a managed VSaaS for any camera, scaling is hassle free. You can easily add or remove sites, users, cameras, or change storage as required.
Remote monitoring is a key advantage of Cloud VSaaS solutions.
True Cloud solutions should let you access your footage anywhere you have internet, through a standard web browser (no need for specific apps or software).
SEiNG is ideal for multi-site businesses, or multi-camera single sites. Log in securely using Single Sign On and 2-Factor authentication, via any modern web browser. You can easily filter between sites and devices, plus AI-backed object filters for recorded footage makes it easy to find what you need.
Find out what your supplier requires your end when it comes to getting your system up and running.
Some VSaaS providers give you access to their Cloud CCTV platform and manage updates, but leave you to connect and configure the system yourself. SEiNG, however, offers a fully managed service. We handle onboarding, training, and install any new cameras you may need, so the system is up and running correctly from day 1.
When it comes to maintenance, support, cybersecurity patches and firmware upgrades it is important to know who has ultimate responsibility. Is it you, the re-seller or a third party provider?
As a fully managed VSaaS, SEiNG delivers comprehensive UK support. Updates are automatic, so all users can always access the most feature-rich and secure version of the platform.
Most VSaaS suppliers operate on a subscription-based pricing model. Typically, this includes costs of upgrades, maintenance, and access to the Cloud CCTV platform features.
Often, VSaaS providers still charge upfront fees - though these costs are usually substantially smaller than traditional on-premise payments. Most providers also offer tiered pricing, the lowest tier often encompassing Cloud storage and basic AI tools, with more advanced AI and search costing more.
SEiNG however is unique for charging no upfront costs and having no tiers - all users can access all features and the managed service from just £5/month.
Learn about SEiNG's pricing.
Crucial for ongoing operations and troubleshooting, you need to make sure that local support is there with your VSaaS system if you need it.
Many VSaaS providers offer UK support via their reseller network. In many cases, this could mean that service quality varies. Other Cloud CCTV providers offer community-based support, charging a premium for additional support from their team. This could have implications if something goes wrong.
As a fully managed Cloud CCTV platform, SEiNG offers expert UK-based support to all customers with an active subscription. This includes full onboarding/ offboarding support, system health monitoring, troubleshooting, adding/ removing sites and users, and training your team. If you need help, the team are just a phone call or email away - or you can submit a ticket online, read guides, or watch tutorials if you prefer self-guided learning.
Bandwidth requirements for Cloud CCTV can vary significantly depending on factors including:
Understanding your bandwidth requirements are therefore essential. The SEiNG team will work with you through this, to design an efficient system that maximises your network resources and meets your needs.
Strategies to handle low bandwidth or connectivity issues with Cloud CCTV:
It's important to understand where your data is stored, to ensure your data is held according to data protection standards like GDPR.
Many Cloud CCTV providers use data centres in locations like Europe and the United States, which can introduce concerns over data sovereignty and compliance for UK businesses.
As a VSaaS designed specifically for UK businesses, SEiNG protects your data with encryption and authentication, with storage in a secure, compliant, UK facility.
Whilst Cloud systems require a stable, reasonably fast internet connection to upload video footage in real time or near real time, rural UK businesses are still having success with Cloud CCTV.
Even sites in the countryside often have multiple leased lines, and if that's not currently part of the infrastructure, Alert Data (the company behind SEiNG) can work to improve your connectivity.
In fact, SEiNG even serves UK food manufacturer Charlie Bigham's, who are located in a Somerset Quarry - and have never experienced an outage.