Upon reviewing studies from both the US and the UK, it was found that security cameras lessened the likelihood of crimes by 10%. Since they present such value to your security strategy, it’s worth investing in security cameras. But which are the best security cameras for businesses?

Keep reading for the ultimate guide to security camera technologies and integrations. Securing your commercial property starts with choosing exceptional security hardware.

 

Cloud-Based Security Cameras

Cloud-based security cameras are quickly becoming the preferred surveillance solution for businesses. They offer more agility than on-premise alternatives and offer the following advanced features:

  • Remote operation - security staff can easily view surveillance footage anywhere using a mobile device or browser. They can remotely control camera angles to increase their perspective and get a closer look when investigating potential security risks. 
  • Open API integrations - investing in cloud-based security cameras opens up the opportunity to apply software integrations. Using these integrations, you can expand the function of your security hardware to improve ROI.

In addition to providing the same benefits as a traditional security camera system, cloud-based cameras provide more visibility. Since security staff have numerous duties that render them unable to consistently view surveillance feed, they will likely miss important events. Having the ability to monitor footage from their mobile devices increases the likelihood of threat detection.

 

Security Camera Integrations

Now that you know how cloud-based security cameras work, let’s discuss the top security camera integrations to expand the function of your surveillance system:

  • Access control integration - with cloud-based access control, you can integrate your surveillance and access technology to make all information readily available on a single interface. If you suspect someone has entered the building using stolen access credentials, you can easily verify this without correlating timestamps from different data sources.
  • Automated threat detection - by leveraging the open integrations of cloud-based video surveillance, you can automate threat detection with AI. AI uses behavior and object recognition to spot security threats in your camera footage. Then, it triggers an alert to your security staff on their mobile devices. Once they receive these alerts, your team can investigate and resolve the issue immediately.
  • Facial recognition - if you opt for cloud-based security cameras, you can use facial recognition software instead of access credentials. To enter the property, your employees must present their faces to the camera for recognition. Using biometric access credentials ensures no risk of intruders entering the property with stolen keycards.

Additionally, to ensure the overall security of your cloud-based surveillance system, it's important to consider cybersecurity risk assessment services. These services can assess potential vulnerabilities in your system's network, data storage, and software components, helping you proactively address any cyber threats.

Without choosing a cloud-based camera system with open API integrations, you couldn’t access these incredible software applications. Consider enhancing your system for more automation and safety and unifying all your security data on a single easy-access platform.

 

Security Camera Hardware

Whether you choose an on-premise or cloud-based security camera system, you must select security camera hardware. You might need specialized cameras for extremely harsh conditions, such as explosion-protected cameras or an outdoor-friendly solution. Here are the different types of hardware to choose from. 

Dome Cameras

Dome cameras are ideal for covering a large space with fewer cameras. They have a 360-degree range, which allows you to place them on corners without compromising visibility. They are easy to install and suited to both indoor and outdoor environments.

Bullet Cameras

A bullet camera is obvious, making it ideal for an outdoor environment. This is the best choice if you need to deter criminals from attempting to enter your business premises. Bullet cameras are highly resistant to water, dust, and debris, making them best suited outdoors.

C-Mount Cameras

C-mount cameras are another excellent deterrent, as they are visible from long distances. They also provide clear footage at a staggering distance for security investigations. They come with a sturdy casing to withstand harsh outdoor conditions.

PTZ Pan Tilt Camera

A PTZ pan tilt camera has tilt and pan with a 360-degree range of view. They also provide a clear focus for zooming. They are ideal for environments where facial recognition is used and are best for businesses requiring adjustable footage.

 

Summary

When equipping your business with a security camera system, you should consider the advantages of cloud-based technology. It opens up many avenues for integrations that can help you make the most of your security hardware investments. And you can choose any camera hardware type with cloud-based operation.