The world has become diverse after Covid-19 hit, making everything Remote. From shopping to education to marketing and even healthcare facilities can be accessed from the comfort of your home or anywhere you go.

Then why shouldn’t we be able to keep an eye on our offices, homes, and even daycare centers without sticking to one place?

This is where a remote video surveillance system comes into place to make your life easier and more vigilant. Gone are the days when you would have to stay glued to your computer screen or hire security personnel to keep your private spaces safe or safe spaces private.

With the new remote video Monitoring technology, you will be able to experience a secure lifestyle.

If you are unfamiliar with the perks of having video monitoring services, you are about to gain superior knowledge by going through this guide to remote video monitoring.

Purpose of Remote Video Monitoring?

When you pair Camera surveillance with a top-quality remote guarding facility, you get the perfect recipe for optimum security protocol and safety.

To make it more clear, Remote CCTV monitoring allows you to view your premises through live footage and have automated detections installed with an internet connection on your mobile or desktop to keep you aware of any unforeseen circumstances. 

Giving you the privilege to monitor real-time activities on your business grounds, residential areas, or even multiple locations at the same time.

Not only does this save you time, effort, and money but also prevents any malicious activities by giving direct alerts on your personal device.

How does it make you safe?

This guide to remote video monitoring will cover all the necessary details that one must consider before making a well-informed decision.

You must be aware of CCTV camera usage but while this kind of surveillance only records the crime, a remote video monitoring system carefully analyzes the movements at your locations and sends you alerts while turning on the alarms at the site to call the police.

1. Installation: Cameras are installed where the whole property can be viewed without any blind spots. They are then connected to the internet to always produce live footage.
2. Video Transmission: All the recordings and live feeds are sent to your preferred device while being stored on your storage clouds simultaneously.
3. Alerts: If the virtual guard detects unfamiliar activities on your site, it automatically sends you a notification informing you and confirming whether it can send a dispatch team or not. It will also sound a blazing alarm for the culprit to inquire them that they have been caught in action.
4. Verification: You will need to verify if this motion is under your surveillance or if it is a real threat.
5. Dispatch: After you confirm your decision, a team is sent over or the police are alerted to reach the location while also recording the activity.

After following this protocol, one can be assured that all their personal belongings, business material, and infrastructure are not damaged, stolen, or corrupted in any way.

Places where you can utilize a Remote Video Monitoring System

People from all walks of life can gain benefits from this monitoring system. It is not only designed to help prevent thefts or robberies but also to collect data based on human and animal activities.

• Office/Workplace security

Stay ahead of your game and make sure all employees are working proficiently and following all safety protocols. You can monitor factories, multiple plant sites, hospitals, schools/colleges, restaurants, and any other place where you believe you need to keep an eye at all times.

• Home/ Personal Properties

Your family can never be in danger while this monitoring system is installed. Even if you aren’t at home or have more than one house which needs protection, it is the perfect solution to not even let a squirrel pass by without your knowledge.

• Public Places

Many crimes occur in public places such as parks, malls, streets, metro stations, or even religious sites like churches, temples, or mosques. Many times, the culprit is seen stealing items or vandalizing the property without gaining attention because of the large crowd.

A remote video monitoring system will prevent anyone from escaping with anyone’s belongings.

• Freeway/Traffic

The deadliest accidents tend to occur on freeways and cause traffic, engaging the drivers into committing more crimes and leading to havoc for authorities.

Installing these devices will not only help the authorities point out the true mishap but also prevent such activities in the future by acting upon the data provided through the monitoring system.

• Wildlife activities

Oftentimes, scientists or analysts need to collect data on animal activities or find out the source of natural disasters. They can use this facility to create new research and make correct hypotheses or theories by studying live or recorded footage.

What makes the Remote Video Monitoring System so efficient?

A facility requires some software and hardware tools to give you a state-of-the-art experience thus, you should be made aware of all the equipment that is used to keep you updated and secure.

1. Network Tools
   A certain software is devised to monitor the network which provides the live feeds and data to you. For this purpose, professionals make sure that the network you are using is working smoothly and giving prompt alerts.
   There are three types of network monitoring tools:

• SolarWinds
• Nagios
• PRTG

2. Application Tools
   The data and surveillance you receive is through the app installed on your device and if that app is giving errors, it can be detected through several app monitoring tools.
   The performance is calculated through these:

• Splunk
• AppDynamics
• Dynatrace
  

3. Cloud Tools
   Ensuring that all recordings are stored proficiently and ruling out any risks of losing data is the main property of these cloud monitoring tools. They also send prompt messages in case of any defect or error in storage centers.
   A few of them are mentioned below:

• Google Cloud Monitoring
• Cloud Watch
• AWS
• Microsoft Azure Monitor
  

4. Server Tools
   A server monitoring tool is used to track the system’s server’s performance, availability, and utilization and most importantly acknowledge the IT professional if any issue occurs. IT experts prefer to use these software:
   

• Zabbix
• Datadog
• New Relic
  

5. Environment Tools
   This tool is specifically important while recording data on wildlife activities and natural occurrences. It helps in providing alerts in case of changes in temperature, humidity, or other environmental hazards.
   Some examples of such tools are provided below:
   

• AKCP
• Sensaphone
• Monnit
  

6. Mobile Device Management Tools
   Surely, the mobile device needs to be working proficiently to enable the application’s smooth running. Thus, the MDM tool makes sure the device is highly encrypted, and there is no illegal usage.
   Look at some of the top-quality MDM tools:
   

• MobileIron
• AirWatch
• MaaS360
  

7. Video Surveillance Tools
   Preferably the most important aspect of a working CCTV video surveillance and monitoring system. It ensures that all cameras are running in the best condition and capturing real-time feed while also storing it without any hindrance. The main aspect would be to send alert messages in case of suspicious activities. Some of the best tools are:

• Hanwha Techwin
• Axis Communications
• Hikvision

Building AI-powered video monitoring without the addition of these tools is not worthy nor can it be considered a reliable option to be trusted with.

How can you take full advantage of the Remote Video Monitoring Service?

Once you are equipped with a remote video monitoring system, you will realize the extent of time, money, effort, and stress that will not be needed anymore.

Let’s look at all the perks you will avail

• Cost Efficiency

Hiring security guards, deploying fences or barriers, and paying for theft alarms will be out of the window. Set up the system once and never look back on spending another penny for protection.

• Stress-Free Mind

When you know you have a system installed that never takes a break or blinks an eye from recording your locations, wouldn’t you be a happy person? Having someone else monitor your sites and with such precision that automatically sends alerts to the police in case you are unable to tend to your application. That’s a win-win situation.

• Data Storage

The ability to look at not only live video but also all the previous ones helps identify troublemakers and prevent any incidents from happening again. It also provides evidence when necessary while aiding your business.

• Keep an Eye on Everywhere

You can choose to monitor your property or business site from anywhere you like. You can add as many locations as you prefer and be stress-free about having a blind spot on your system.

• Faster Response Rate

Usually in cases like theft or vandalism, it takes some time for the affected authorities to arrive promptly because the crime is reported after the culprit has left the site, however, in this case, the cameras will instantly alert you or a remote guard if they detect anything.

Even if you are busy, the remote security guard will have permission to alert the police or call for a fire brigade/ambulance if needed.

• Business Boom

When you are less worried about being protected and more invested in customer care while also keeping a check on your employee’s performance, your business will undoubtedly escalate to new heights.

You can even keep track of any incidents between co-workers or customers in the workplace to prevent them in the future.

How many types of Remote Video Monitoring Systems exist?

Currently, there are 4 types of security remote video monitoring systems at your disposal. Let’s skim through them to give you a precise idea of what might be best for you,

• Analog Camera

These cameras don’t need a wireless connection, rather they are connected through various cables and the footage gets stored in a DVR which can be accessed through remote locations if there is a proper network connection.

• IP Camera

The most functional and technologically advanced cameras are usually used for factories, multi-purpose businesses, and under-threat areas. They include a variety of software that enhances the camera’s ability to detect and identify any improper activities while providing footage through an Internet protocol connection.

• Cloud-Storage

Just like the name, this drive also encompasses hefty amounts of data while allowing you to access it anytime you like. The cameras are connected to this cloud-based monitoring system.

• Wireless Cameras

These cameras are easy to use and can be connected without hassle. All you need is an internet connection, and it can be easily available to always view on your mobile device through an app. (Modern day Baby-cams would be a perfect example)

Is a Remote Video Monitoring System expensive?

There are several costs that can be paid at the time of installation, and you will never have to worry about them again. They are, however, less than what you would pay for a security guard per hour. 

• Camera Cost

It solely depends on the type of cameras you want to get installed. You can go for the cheaper ones which cost less than 100 dollars each or if you own a high-end business then you can opt for a more amplified version going up to thousands of dollars.

• Software Cost

There are several software and management tools ingrained into the system which need to be updated and well-transverse to keep you out of any risks.

• Storage Cost

In today’s date, where storing more than 15GB of data costs you 3 dollars a month, it would surely not be free to incorporate such large amounts of feed without having a reliable device that would keep the drive intact.

• Network Equipment Costs

As mentioned earlier, network management tools include switches, boards, adapters, routers, cables, and many more items. 

• Installation Cost

Just having the technology isn’t enough. To ensure a proper working structure, you will need the help of a professional expert to make sure that all equipment is connected properly and works smoothly. Hiring such a person will add to your expenditure.

• Maintenance Cost

Even though you need to spend once to get the system set up, there will be some maintenance required to keep the surveillance protocol always complete. These could include camera cleaning services, some software updates, or repairing damage along with installing new apparatus as per your needs.

• Internet Connection Costs

This solely depends on the internet service you choose but it needs to be always effective which will be included in a monthly or yearly fee.

What are the key features of a Remote Video Monitoring System?

Someone is always watching.

The cameras are up and running 24/7 along with a virtual monitoring team that doesn’t let intruders get away without taking action (even if you are unaware or asleep).

Personalized Access

Only you get to decide who can access the video streams and who can collect data from the cloud. Otherwise, no third-party apps, viruses, or hackers can get into this highly encrypted system.

Night Vision and Motion Detection

Whether you need to monitor activity during the day or night, this service has the capability to immediately spot unusual activity even in total darkness with its night vision and motion detection software.

Ease of Access

The in-app features allow you to remain stress-free and engage in monitoring whenever you feel like it. This peace of mind will not only give you restful sleep but also provide a better stance at positively impacting your business.

A 100 percent Legal

The data is always handled keeping in mind the laws and regulations ensuring complete privacy and authority for you and your compliances.

Why is it a better option than hiring security personnel?

Apart from saving you thousands of dollars every month, CCTV video surveillance and monitoring are much more reliable, available, and alert at any hour of the day (or night).

• A security guard cannot always cover all areas of your property, nor can you be a hundred percent sure that they are going to doze off in front of the monitoring screen (either by being tired or being drugged).
  However, the cameras scan every nook and corner of the site while giving you updates on and about. They can’t be intimated or attacked nor be subject to an overdose of sleeping pills.
  
• Wouldn’t it be better to have a professional team available at a call center ready to assist you than hiring multiple guards who can be huddled somewhere watching the game together? No one gets hurt or injured and the team is also being monitored by supervisors to ensure maximum productivity.
  
• Suppose there is a successful break-in or not, would you be able to rely on the security guard’s memory to collect evidence or remember the thief’s face? Installing remote video surveillance camera systems will guarantee that you can use stored data and recordings to launch a complaint.

There are several advantages touched upon in this remote video monitoring guide that will appall your interest in launching this system.

A few things you should know before installing a Remote Video Monitoring System.

First, you need to allocate a budget for which you want to install the remote video monitoring system. Then you can consider the types of cameras, software, cloud storage facilities, and degree of maintenance needed according to your pocket size.

Why should you install this system?

Make sure the purpose for which you want this service is being fulfilled by the service provider.

Types of cameras you would need.

Make a wise decision while choosing your camera types from an IP camera and an analog camera. The difference is IP cameras are more technologically advanced and capture a higher resolution than analogs.

However, if you are a small business owner with just the need of 3 or 4 cameras then you can save yourself from the investment of IP cameras.

Types of Storage devices needed.

Decide whether to store your footage on a hard drive, a cloud platform or the camera’s internal memory. If you need to record premium-quality footage, then you should invest in a high-limit storage facility.

Personalize according to your requirements.

Keep in mind the type of installation you might need if you are a business that is on wheels or needs relocation from time to time. Build customized systems in accordance with your personalization.

Get the best software!

Choose a monitoring system with top-rated software monitoring tools that enable you to assess your premises according to your personalization.

For example, if you own a jewelry store and need surveillance at night, then you should get night vision installed on your system.

Reliable service provider.

Choose a reputable monitoring vendor who has good reviews and success stories to help you choose the best platform ensuring maximum security.

Surely, considering these options will help you in making the right decision according to your cash flow and protection needs.

What’s your decision?

Hopefully, after reading this remote video monitoring guide, you are aware of your needs and your business’s needs. Whether you need to keep an eye on the new nanny at your home or make sure none of your employees doze off in the middle of the day costing you a loss, or if you are tired of shoplifting and burglars entering your territory, you can save yourself with virtual video monitoring. 

Not only will this save you some time and money but will also enhance the quality of your dealings with customers and create a peaceful environment.

Don’t wait up! Get started with this journey so you never have to look back on security issues.

FAQ’s

What is remote video monitoring?

Remote Video Monitoring is an easy-to-use and effective system that allows you to keep an eye on your premises at all hours of the day and night. It uses highly advanced technology, software and network connections to provide safety, security along with storage of data.

How does remote monitoring work?

In case of a break-in, theft, or vandalism, the camera’s software will detect unauthorized activity by spotting it immediately. Then, it will send an alert to you and a monitoring team at the call center. The team will send in the required authorities to the crime scene even if you are unaware of the situation.

How does remote video surveillance work?

The terms remote video monitoring and remote video surveillance are often described similarly but while the monitoring support sends you live data and transcribes alerts, surveillance is mainly acquired through storage options and used for investigation purposes.

Why Use a Remote Monitoring System?

If you want to make sure none of your equipment, data, or valuable items get stolen or you just need to monitor the activity of your employees, a remote video monitoring system is the best option.

What are some remote monitoring examples?

Remote monitoring is being used in every part/business/property nowadays,

• Schools/Universities
• Homes/Private Properties
• Hospitals
• Traffic Control 
• Freeways
• Grocery Stores/ Shopping outlets
• Parking lots
• Parks

What are remote monitoring tools?

There are a few tools that make every system run smoothly. While using a remote video monitoring service, one must ensure that top-quality management tools are used.

There is a wide range of software, network, hardware, application, device, storage, and server monitoring tools that are essential.

What are the benefits of using a Remote Video Monitoring System?

Why shouldn’t you? Having the power to keep an eye on your properties, not relying on any third parties or worrying about security personnel, isn’t this a dream come true?

Surely, there are tons of monitoring benefits attached to using a live remote video monitoring system which will not only enhance your chances of becoming theft-free but also give you a new level of momentum to escalate your business without worrying about these petty issues.

What kind of equipment do I need for remote video monitoring?

The remote video monitoring guide will give you all the necessary information you need on setting up your system, here is all the important equipment you need.

• Cameras, the most important equipment of all.
• Internet Connection to keep you always secure.
• Network equipment like switches, cables, routers, etc.
• Software installation will be performed by an IT professional to ensure all the monitoring tools are working properly.
• Storage clouds and devices that ensure complete backup.
• A device to access the footage remotely. It can be a mobile phone, a laptop, or even a tablet.
• A video recorder that can capture not just malicious activity but make sure the cameras are always rolling.
• A sound power supply. This is the only thing that cannot be tolerated since it is running the whole system.

What are the costs associated with remote video monitoring?

It depends on how far you decide to spread out your system and the type of equipment you use. 

You can get away with a few hundred bucks if you are looking to install a few cameras, but if you are determined to assess a highly advanced, multiple storage and fully updated system then it could begin at 1500 dollars at least. (This is not an exact estimate, but an assumption made on various payment plans at different platforms)

Is remote video monitoring secure and private?

Only you have the authority to let anyone else access the cloud or storage devices. Apart from that, it monitors your site on your behalf and immediately sends alerts to inform you and the police (if needed) of any suspicious activity.

It is also highly encrypted in terms of network protocol while maintaining a completely private experience for you.

How does remote video monitoring differ from traditional security systems?

Traditional security system translates as hiring security guards which can be dangerous at times, costly and time-consuming.

Additionally, it is not only more efficient in capturing data, making analysis, and sending alerts but it also allows you to keep vigilance at all locations at once (which is not possible with a human being). 

How do I choose the right remote video monitoring system for my needs?

First, consider your budget and with respect to that go on to choose the most effective software, equipment, and reliable source of service to fulfill the real reason you want this system installed. Also, make sure that the right remote video monitoring system always has technical support present.

What are the advantages of remote monitoring and control?

Along with its advanced speed to keep you updated about your property and finest technology ensuring proper footage is being acquired at every moment, it has a number of other advantages you can benefit from.

• Identify true culprits and detect anomalies in your barriers.
• Save a huge amount of costs from hiring security guards. 
• On track, high-demand service that never sleeps keeping you out of worries.
• Ensuring optimal performance of employees during work hours.
• Virtual team to monitor your site and be extra cautious.
• Scan any false alarms or collect important data.
• Prevents you from losing business.
• Provide real-time data for better maintenance.

What’s the difference between surveillance cameras and security cameras?

A surveillance camera is designed to monitor malicious or unauthorized activities which means its only protocol is to capture data and record it. It’s most effective in places like homes, hospitals, daycare centers, or other facilities where the chances of robberies or theft are minimal.

On the other hand, security cameras are allocated to detect and prevent any hazardous or dangerous activity. They are not only equipped with high-quality resolution, nighttime vision, motion detection, etc. but are also capable of sending alerts and engaging alarms when needed.

A factory site, retail store, traffic signals, banks, buses/trains or any other location which can be under threat or needs high protection can all fall under the use of security cameras.