Cloud-First Security: Integrators’ Key to Long-Term Value

As organizations increasingly trade traditional DVR and NVR setups for cloud-based surveillance and access control, critical questions around security, privacy, and long-term value are taking center stage.

For physical security systems integrators and consultants, understanding the ins and outs of cloud-first solutions is now essential to expertly guide clients through this transition.

According to Boudewijn Pesch, Vice President of Japan and Asia Pacific Channel Sales at Verkada, today’s leading cloud-based systems often outstrip the security and reliability of legacy systems. “Leading cloud-based systems today offer robust security and privacy controls,” Pesch stated. “Many encrypt data both in transit and at rest, ensuring it remains protected whether it’s being sent to the cloud or stored locally on a device.”

For small and medium-sized businesses weighing their options, independent verification is key to building trust. Pesch advises integrators to look for objective measurements of system security. “For small businesses evaluating cloud-based systems, looking for independent security assessments and certifications like ISO and SOC can help to determine the best security solution,” he noted.

Continuous updates and risk reduction

One of the biggest advantages of cloud-based security systems is their ability to continuously evolve. Unlike traditional on-premises recorders, which often need manual intervention or hardware upgrades, cloud-connected platforms deliver updates automatically. “The best part of having a cloud-based system is how it evolves over time, delivering new capabilities automatically,” Pesch explained.

This ongoing evolution extends beyond software improvements, encompassing core functionality such as analytics, integration, and cybersecurity. “From AI analytics and real-time alerts to new integrations and user interface improvements, these updates improve the user experience and deliver long-term value without any extra effort, hardware changes, or manual updates,” he said.

For security integrators, automatic updates also ease the burden of maintaining multiple client systems. Pesch pointed out that this proactive approach tackles one of the most common vulnerabilities in traditional setups. “The automatic firmware updates also reduce exposure to vulnerabilities by keeping systems consistently patched, eliminating the risks associated with delayed or manual updates,” he said.

This reliability is particularly crucial for multi-site customers and organizations managing distributed infrastructure. With firmware, software, and security updates deployed automatically from the cloud, administrators can ensure every location adheres to the latest security standards.

Addressing customer concerns about subscription costs

Despite the growing popularity of cloud-first security systems, many customers still worry about recurring subscription costs. Integrators are essential in reframing this conversation, shifting the focus from short-term costs to long-term value.

Pesch emphasized that subscription-based models should be seen as a way to maintain performance and foster innovation, not just as a recurring charge. “When comparing security solutions, it’s important to consider the total cost of ownership,” he said. “Software licenses that customers purchase aren’t just for basic functionality – they enable manufacturers to deliver and maintain new, cutting-edge features and analytics; support integrations with third party technology solutions; and ultimately deliver a better customer experience with automatic over-the-air software, firmware, security updates, as well as customer support and user training.”

By bundling ongoing support, software improvements, and integration capabilities into the license model, vendors reduce the need for expensive maintenance contracts or manual system upgrades. This approach ensures end-users continue to benefit from technological advancements throughout the product lifecycle.

“All of these capabilities – which eliminate a large portion of maintenance and integration costs associated with traditional solutions – are delivered free of additional charge for the duration of the license term, saving small businesses time and money,” Pesch said. “It also ensures that customers enjoy a solution that continues to get better over time.”

Supporting integrators in a changing landscape

The shift toward cloud-first solutions has reshaped how integrators handle system design, deployment, and support. While legacy systems relied heavily on on-site hardware maintenance, cloud-based platforms allow integrators to focus more on system optimization and service delivery.

Cloud management platforms often merge video surveillance, access control, and analytics into a single interface, streamlining deployments and enabling more efficient remote troubleshooting. Integrators can also use cloud dashboards to monitor system health, manage user access, and configure alerts across multiple client sites.

For small businesses and large enterprises, this means improved uptime and less reliance on local IT resources. Automatic updates, centralized control, and real-time analytics are particularly valuable for industries with distributed facilities like retail chains, schools, logistics centers, and healthcare institutions.

Security and privacy remain foundational

As organizations adopt cloud-first security infrastructure, data privacy and cyber resilience remain top concerns. Vendors have responded by incorporating layered encryption, access controls, and compliance with global data protection standards.

While technical safeguards are crucial, Pesch noted that independent validation is an effective way to reassure customers. Certifications like ISO 27001 or SOC 2 demonstrate a vendor’s commitment to maintaining security best practices. For integrators, referencing these certifications can help clients feel confident in the integrity of their systems.

Additionally, centralized management systems often provide audit trails and user access logs, offering visibility into who accessed video data and when. This transparency supports compliance with regional privacy regulations, such as the EU’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) or emerging data protection frameworks across Asia.

The broader shift toward cloud adoption

The move from on-premises to cloud-based systems reflects a broader digital transformation in the physical security industry. Many end-users now expect their security platforms to seamlessly integrate with business operations, analytics tools, and third-party software.

The scalability of cloud infrastructure enables integrators to design systems that grow with their clients. Adding new cameras, sensors, or access points can often be done through software configuration rather than additional hardware. Similarly, AI and machine learning-powered analytics features can enhance situational awareness, automate incident detection, and reduce operator fatigue.

This software-driven model also positions integrators to offer value-added services like remote monitoring, data insights, and system optimization. By focusing on lifecycle support instead of one-time installations, integrators can build longer-term relationships with their customers.

A future built on collaboration

As cloud adoption accelerates, collaboration between vendors, integrators, and customers will remain crucial. Integrators will need to combine technical expertise with advisory skills, helping clients understand how subscription models, data security measures, and AI-driven features align with their business goals.

Manufacturers, in turn, will continue to refine their platforms to simplify integration, strengthen cybersecurity, and support regulatory compliance across different regions. The shift toward unified, cloud-managed systems is likely to continue reshaping the surveillance and access control market in the years ahead.

For integrators and consultants, this represents not just a technological evolution but a strategic opportunity. By understanding how cloud systems deliver ongoing updates, maintain compliance, and reduce operational costs, they can position themselves as trusted partners in helping customers modernize their security infrastructure.

As Pesch summarized, the long-term advantage lies in continuous improvement. “It also ensures that customers enjoy a solution that continues to get better over time,” he concluded.