Servers

What is a CCTV server and what role does it play in a surveillance system?

A server, when used for CCTV purposes, is the central processing and storage unit of a video recording and surveillance system, acting as the main ‘brain’ that manages, organises and securely stores video footage from connected security cameras. Having a dedicated server enables advanced functionalities like video analytics, remote monitoring, and efficient data management and is recommended for most setups.  

How do I choose the right server capacity for my CCTV system?

Choosing the right server capacity for a given CCTV system will depend on several factors, all of which will need to be taken into consideration. You’ll want to consider how many cameras there are in the system in total, the frame rate of said cameras, their resolution and also the retention period, i.e. how long the footage will need to be stored for. More cameras will equal higher storage requirements, and higher resolutions and frame rates on the cameras will lead to more storage-heavy video recordings, so a system with multiple high-definition cameras will need significantly more capacity than a smaller setup with regular definition cameras. Also, the number of daily recording hours will be a strong factor in how much storage is needed, as will whether compression is used. Motion-activated recordings may take up less space than continuous recording, if your organisation can use this form of recording. If you’re unsure of how much space you’ll need, speak to one of our team who will be able to point you in the right direction.

Are CCTV servers compatible with all camera brands and VMS software?

Although CCTV servers are compatible with most types of cameras and most video management software, this may not always be the case. When selecting a server, carefully review its supported camera brands, VMS specifications, and communication protocols. Some manufacturers design proprietary systems with limited third-party integration, so it's crucial to verify that compatibility can be achieved before purchasing. Consider consulting with the manufacturer to make sure that your setup will work the way you want it to.

What's the difference between a CCTV server, NVR, and cloud storage?

A CCTV server is a piece of dedicated hardware that manages video recording, storage, and processing on-site, which gives a high degree of performance as well as robust local control. NVRs (Network Video Recorders) on the other hand are typically focused on recording and storing footage, with less processing power and flexibility than a full sever. Cloud storage is internet-based and a remote solution, with footage stored on external servers. When deciding, you’ll want to account for the fact that each option has its own advantages. For example, servers offer the most by way of customisation, NVRs provide easier and more straightforward recording, and cloud storage ensures data redundancy and remote access.

Can a CCTV server support remote access and long-term video retention?

Yes, most modern CCTV servers are designed with remote access and strong storage abilities in mind. Remote access is typically achieved through secure web interfaces or dedicated mobile applications, and as long as the end user has access to internet connectivity this shouldn’t be a problem. If long-term retention of footage is needed, servers can be configured to include high-capacity hard drives, RAID storage systems, and automated archiving mechanisms. Modern security systems often handle copious amounts of data, much of it long term due to compliance considerations, and CCTV servers have these needs in mind. Most professional systems support retention periods ranging from several weeks to multiple years.