The market for general alarm and physical security systems is becoming more sophisticated, providing users with high-quality solutions capable of deterring criminals and keeping private property safe. While wireless intercom systems and advanced network cameras may give the private sector more confidence that their valuable possessions are being protected, the use of these tools also creates new challenges that need to be addressed if their future use is to be guaranteed.

In many instances, high-definition IP cameras and complex access control systems create a substantial amount of data every time the solution is used. Although this data gives decision-makers the unique ability to use analytic tools to make sense of how the applications are leveraged on a daily basis, it also means executives need to have storage environments capable of maintaining these records without consuming too much bandwidth.

An ongoing study by IDC highlighted the growing data universe, noting that the current 1.8 trillion gigabytes of information is doubling in size roughly every two years. Yet another report by Seagate noted that high-definition surveillance cameras can consume terabytes of storage space in a matter of days.

So, as companies continue to adopt technologies that generate significant volumes of data per use, how are decision-makers supposed to maintain these records?

Addressing Storage Concerns

In many cases, IT departments struggle to maintain sturdy storage archives capable of managing massive amounts of information without impairing the performance of IP cameras and other network-connected security applications. To reduce these problems, decision-makers should consider outsourcing operations.

In today's world, outsourcing usually means leveraging cloud solutions, or migrating information to an off-site server while still maintaining access anytime, anywhere. Unlike traditional storage offerings, cloud computing allows firms to take advantage of a pay-as-you-use pricing model, meaning decision-makers are only charged for the amount of space they consume.

Many physical security systems are already being incorporated with the cloud, as Access Control-as-a-Service, Video Surveillance-as-a-Service and other technologies continue to gain momentum. As more offerings make their way to the cloud, it will also become easier to leverage integrated security systems, which can be configured and managed in cloud-based environments.

The private sector will inevitably continue to adopt next-generation alarms and security solutions, as neglecting to do so will hinder a firm's overall ability to compete. As this trend keeps up, decision-makers need to consider embracing the cloud to either use cloud-based offerings or to manage the growing volumes of data generated through advanced solutions.