I can see you: benefits of cloud-based CCTV and access control for businesses

28 November 2025

Advanced CCTV systems are a business essential for keeping your premises secure, compliant with UK regulations, and under 24/7 surveillance. CCTV is no longer about just camera footage of well-lit areas, as the latest systems we install include high-definition IP security cameras and IP infra-red thermal imaging. We can also leverage AI for fast searches of footage if required.

So you might expect that all our state of the art systems will be cloud-based and that’s that. However, we’ve found that cloud-based systems have major benefits, and some drawbacks too. Time for some myth-busting.

Myth-busting cloud-based CCTV

More space, less tech

Most of our customers think that switching to cloud-based commercial Video Surveillance System (VSS) and CCTV will reduce the hardware on site. It won’t, because you still need the active switches to power and control your cameras. So the physical tech and power supplies you need to actually run your CCTV system remains the same. The cloud-based element adds much greater functionality, such as remote viewing, secure storage of data (footage), remote control of cameras, and any data-intensive processes such as AI search (more on that later).

No wires

All our installations start with a comprehensive site survey to assess what you have in place and what needs upgrading or replacing. One element that will NOT go will be the physical wires that connect the system together. We do recommend replacing larger installations with old copper wiring with new super-fast fibre cabling to connect the CCTV together to a central hub/controller. Fibre optic technology ensures your system provides superior clarity and reliability, and eliminates the annoying time lag of traditional copper networks. Spire are one of the few CCTV providers that install fibre using our own in-house team.

Cloud-based systems only connect via a network

Accessing your cloud-based system’s footage from anywhere is a lot simpler, but does not *eliminate* the risk of hacking. What’s more, some cloud CCTV systems still require ports to be forwarded on the router. In plain speak, that means a potential access point that could give hackers access to your entire network, not just the CCTV. This can become even more of an issue if you wish to integrate access control into your CCTV and cloud-based system.

At Spire, we always recommend creating a separate network or VLAN for your CCTV cameras. Then, none of your premises’ security features are on your internal network. This virtually eliminates the risk of hacking to the rest of your services, be it e-commerce, warehousing inventories or customer data.

Cloud-based systems are cheaper to run

All cloud-based systems will require a subscription account and annual cloud fees. These may increase according to how much data you wish to store. So it’s an extra cost that you need to factor in.

There is also the cost of your and/or your employee’s time. Some cloud-based systems are pretty much “DIY”, requiring you to view the footage and assess the level of response required yourself. Other systems may rely on AI for object recognition and event prediction, but the technology is not as reliable or consistent enough to be 100% relied on. So, for businesses without onsite security, you’ll need a senior member of staff (or for SMEs, yourself as the business owner) to be on call to review footage and trigger a response.

With a Spire installation and contract, we include 24/7/365 monitoring and a dedicated alarm centre for an immediate response to security breaches.

Cloud-based systems have a lower carbon footprint

There is also an environmental cost to cloud-based systems to consider if you are working towards net zero for your business. Data processing and storage creates its own carbon footprint through energy usage and data centre cooling. It’s not a reason in itself not to have a cloud-based solution, of course, but it should be factored in, and perhaps offset within the business.

Cloud-systems don’t need Planned Preventive Maintenance (PPM)

All CCTV systems are only as reliable as their physical infrastructure, including cameras, switches, cabling and main control hubs. At Spire, we provide PPM contracts to ensure your CCTV system is always operational, and to reduce the risk of you discovering issues at a crucial point or after an incident. The only part that we don’t have control over is the online element, which should be constantly updated and upgraded by the provider, so it is also reliable and dependable.

Also, cloud-based systems can suffer outages especially when they rely on a specific infrastructure platform. (We’re thinking of the recent AWS and Cloudflare outages, for example.) A main system that can act independently of the availability of a cloud platform, or even internet access, is invaluable for peace of mind and security alike.

So why do Spire offer cloud-based systems?

Cloud-based access is only one part of a much wider range of applications to ensure your premises has the best safety, surveillance and monitoring possible, as well as tools to help increase productivity and maintain quality control.

The best CCTV systems are a custom-designed solution that uses the best available technology for your unique business circumstances and building/s. That’s what we offer at Spire. We start with the latest, quality onsite equipment and technology augmented with custom-developed comprehensive AI solutions to meet your specific needs. Contact us to discuss your requirements and to book your no-obligation survey.

Cloud-based CCTV FAQs

Are your fibre optic cable team in-house?

Yes, they are, and we work with IPAF-licensed operatives on safe and well-designed systems, even in complex industrial environments. For large sites and/or multiple buildings, our custom-designed fibre optic networks combine high-performance with real-time surveillance, without the risk of downtime or data loss for your site.

Will a new cloud-based installation disrupt my business?

We keep disruption to an absolute minimum, as we aim to integrate new CCTV systems with your existing infrastructure. So your CCTV coverage and effectiveness is increased, rather than just replaced.

What AI features can you add to my CCTV system?

Our standard AI integration includes object identification and people detection that alerts security centres when unauthorised access occurs. We also work with AI partners to design custom comprehensive AI solutions for better efficiency and security, including monitoring production lines to ensuring quality control.

Solve your fire safety issues with Spire

Call us on 0800 112 3551, email us, or fill in our form.

About the author

David Whiteside is both Founder and Managing Director of Spire. David has been involved in the Fire & Security industry for over 15 years, experiencing the services at all technical and project levels. With a keen eye for detail, a passion for quality of work and unparalleled customer service, David ensures Spire F&D delivers a service that meets and exceeds to the demands of any industry and sector.