Why Businesses Are Switching to Verkada’s Cloud-Based Surveillance

Traditional commercial video surveillance wasn’t built for how modern businesses operate. They rely on fragile on-site equipment, often require dedicated IT support, and rarely provide the flexibility needed to manage multiple locations in real time. And when something goes wrong, whether it's a missed update, a failed hard drive, or a disconnected camera, the downtime and disruption can be costly.

That’s where cloud-based video surveillance, and specifically Verkada, changes the equation. If your current system feels more like a burden than a benefit, you’re not alone. Keep reading to see why more businesses in Houston, TX, are leaving behind outdated NVRs in favor of smarter, scalable surveillance.

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The Trouble with Old-School NVR Systems

Network Video Recorders (NVRs) have been a mainstay in commercial security setups for years. But as physical security demands evolve, these systems reveal their limitations. 

They require racks of gear, extensive wiring, and a static setup that makes scaling difficult. Updates are manual and often skipped, leaving vulnerabilities unpatched. When there’s an issue, from a failed hard drive or a software bug, retrieving footage isn’t always fast or straightforward. And for businesses with multiple buildings or locations, remote monitoring becomes a logistical headache. Simply put, these systems were designed for a different era of commercial operations.

Cloud-Based Surveillance: Built for Modern Demands

A cloud-based system removes many of the barriers created by legacy equipment. Businesses can deploy devices across locations and access everything from a central platform, whether they’re on-site or off.

There’s no need to maintain a separate server room. Storage is handled both onboard and in the cloud. Software updates are automatic and typically invisible to users, which keeps systems current without burdening IT teams. Moreover, footage is encrypted, access is tiered by user roles, and activity logs help track exactly who viewed what and when. That kind of visibility is essential for compliance-driven industries or any organization that prioritizes accountability.

Why Verkada Leads in This Space

Verkada’s system design reflects the needs of modern commercial properties. Their cameras combine onboard storage with cloud connectivity, so footage is always available, even during an internet outage. The platform interface is clean, responsive, and easy to use without training, making it accessible to facility managers, IT personnel, and executives alike. 

Beyond cameras, Verkada integrates additional systems, such as access control, air quality sensors, alarms, and visitor management, and they are all tied into a single dashboard. For companies that want to consolidate security technologies under one platform, this can significantly reduce complexity.

Users can pull up footage by face or license plate, search events by time or motion, and receive alerts based on unusual activity. These features reduce time spent sifting through hours of footage and help businesses respond faster to potential issues.

What to Expect When Making the Switch

Rolling out Verkada across a commercial property, or across multiple sites, is typically faster than traditional systems. There’s no central server to configure, no software to install, and no patchwork of third-party tools to manage. Plus, the interface is ready to use as soon as the system is activated.

Most importantly, the system is designed to grow with the business. Adding cameras or new facility locations is a matter of plugging in devices and assigning access, so you can say goodbye to rewiring and downtime.

It’s Time to Cut the Cord on Old Surveillance

NVR-based surveillance served its purpose, but the demands of modern commercial spaces have outgrown its limitations. If your business is still tied to racks of hardware and manual processes, it might be time to rethink what’s possible with a smarter approach to surveillance. Contact ASAP Security today for a free consultation and discover a more efficient, secure, and future-ready way to manage your business security.