Got cameras on the property and wondering where all that video goes? You’re not alone. Most people set up a system and then forget about the storage part until they need a clip and can’t find it. Let’s break down the options so you can choose a solution that works for your business or home.
Local storage means the footage lives on a device you own – usually a Network Video Recorder (NVR) for IP cameras or a Digital Video Recorder (DVR) for analog gear. The upside is fast access and no ongoing subscription fees. The downside is you need to protect the hardware from theft, fire, or power loss. A UPS and a lockable cabinet go a long way.
Cloud storage sends the video to a remote server run by a provider. It’s handy because you can pull footage from any phone or computer, and the data is automatically backed up. The catch is you’ll pay a monthly or yearly fee, and you rely on internet bandwidth. For most UK homes, a basic plan covering 30‑day retention is cheap enough.
Start by figuring out three things: camera resolution, frame rate, and how long you want to keep the video. A 1080p camera at 15 fps uses roughly 1 GB per hour. If you have four cameras, that’s about 96 GB a day. Multiply by 30 days and you’re looking at ~3 TB. An NVR with a 4‑TB drive will handle that, but if you need higher resolution or longer retention, you’ll need more capacity or a tiered cloud plan.
Remember, you can adjust frame rates during off‑hours to save space. Most modern NVRs let you set motion‑triggered recording, which slashes storage use dramatically while still catching the important moments.
Video is only useful if it stays private. For local storage, change the default admin password, enable encrypted drives if possible, and keep the firmware up to date. For cloud, pick a provider with end‑to‑end encryption and two‑factor authentication. Also, limit who can view the footage – only give access to trusted staff or family members.
Backups matter too. Even if you store locally, copy the most critical weeks to an external drive or a second cloud service. That way a hardware failure or ransomware attack won’t wipe everything out.
Finally, be aware of UK data‑protection rules. If you record public spaces, you may need to display signage and have a clear retention policy. Deleting old footage automatically after the set period helps you stay compliant.
Choosing the right CCTV storage boils down to balancing cost, convenience, and security. Local NVRs give you control and no recurring fees, while cloud services offer peace of mind and remote access. Figure out how many cameras you have, what quality you need, and how long you must store the video, then match those numbers to a storage plan that fits your budget.
Got more questions about setting up or expanding your CCTV storage? Our team at Birmingham Security Command Center is ready to help you pick the best hardware or cloud package for your situation.
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