Keeping your business safe is a top priority. Whether you run a small shop or a large warehouse, security is important. But how do you decide the best way to see your property? This is where video surveillance comes in. Today, you have two main choices: remote video monitoring and traditional video surveillance monitoring.

Each option has its pros and cons. Some business owners prefer it when looking at cameras in their homes. Others prefer smart systems that can monitor everything from their mobile phones. So, what's better for your company?

Let’s explore this Backstreet Surveillance blog to understand the difference between remote and traditional monitoring and find out what works best for you.

What Is Traditional Video Surveillance Monitoring?

Traditional video surveillance monitoring is an old way of observing your company. As a general rule, the camera is installed and the film material is recorded on a local system, such as an NVR surveillance system (network video recorder). Security personnel view video feeds from the control room or security office.

These setups often include:

Pros of Traditional Monitoring

  1. Hands-on control – Your team manages everything.

  2. No internet needed – Systems work even if the internet goes down.

  3. Immediate on-site response – Security staff can act fast if something happens.

Cons of Traditional Monitoring

  1. Higher staffing costs – You need to pay people to monitor 24/7.

  2. No alerts on the go – If something happens when you’re not on-site, you might not know right away.

  3. Limited coverage – Hard to watch every area at once, especially in larger businesses.

What Is Remote Video Monitoring?

Remote video monitoring surveillance uses smart technology to view your camera from anywhere. View live feeds on your phone, tablet, or computer, whether you're at home or on vacation.

With this system, film material is often stored in a cloud or NVR monitoring system, allowing warnings to be determined to notify you of unusual activity. Some remote services also allow professionals to monitor cameras day and night.

Popular tools used in remote systems include:

  • The PTZ surveillance camera (Pan-Tilt-Zoom) follows the movement.

  • Dome surveillance camera for wide-angle views.

  • An outdoor night vision camera working in complete darkness.

Pros of Remote Video Monitoring

  1. Monitor anytime, anywhere – Total control from your phone.

  2. Smart alerts – Get notified instantly about unusual activity.

  3. Lower costs – No need to hire full-time staff to watch screens.

  4. Great for growing businesses – Easily expand your system as you grow.

Cons of Remote Monitoring

  1. Needs internet – Systems depend on a good connection.

  2. Learning curve – Some systems may take time to set up and use.

  3. Delayed on-site action – If you don’t have someone nearby, you may need to call emergency services remotely.

Comparing the Two: Which One Is Right for Your Business?

Let’s break it down even further to see which system works best for different business types.

Feature

Traditional Monitoring

Remote Monitoring

Cost

Higher (staff wages, equipment)

Lower (tech-based, fewer staff)

Access

On-site only

Anywhere via devices

Scalability

Harder to expand

Easy to scale up

Response Time

Instantly, if security is nearby

Depends on external help

Smart Features

Limited 

AI alerts, mobile access, Zoom cameras

Internet Required

No

Yes

Ideal Businesses for Traditional Monitoring

  • Warehouses with 24/7 staff

  • Large malls or retail chains with on-site security

  • High-security areas that need live, constant watching

  • Places where internet access is limited or unreliable

Ideal Businesses for Remote Monitoring

  • Small businesses and shops

  • Multi-location businesses

  • Startups with smaller budgets

  • Owners who travel or work remotely

  • Businesses that want AI-based smart detection

Combining Both: The Best of Both Worlds?

Some businesses are now choosing hybrid systems that offer both remote and traditional monitoring. Here’s how it works:

  • Use PoE security cameras that are linked to the site's surveillance system.

  • Provide internet access and intelligent software so that owners can watch videos from a distance.

  • When necessary, use a third-party service or part-time employees to monitor the situation.

  • You can have both hands-on control and remote monitoring in this way.

How Camera Types Impact Monitoring

1. Dome Surveillance Cameras

These are ideal for both traditional and remote monitoring. Their discreet shape and wide viewing angle make them great for offices, stores, and reception areas.

2. PTZ Security Cameras

Ideal for remote video monitoring. You can move, zoom, and rotate the camera from your phone or laptop.

3. Outdoor Night Vision Cameras

Essential for businesses with parking lots, outdoor storage, or warehouses. These work well in both systems and protect your business even in total darkness.

Benefits of Using Business Security Camera Systems

Regardless of the monitoring approach you decide on, having a dependable business security camera system provides you with:

  • Peace of mind: You can concentrate on expanding your company.

  • Crime prevention: Theft and vandalism are decreased when cameras are visible.

  • Evidence gathering: You have video to back up any claims you make.

  • Benefits of insurance: Having security systems can result in discounts from many insurance providers.

Tips to Choose the Right Setup

  1. Verify your internet speed because remote systems require dependable, quick connectivity.

  2. Establish your spending limit. Over time, remote systems frequently result in cost savings.

  3. Choose between dome, PTZ, or outdoor night vision cameras based on your demands.

  4. Make plans for future expansion by selecting systems that are simple to expand.

  5. Look for cloud storage and mobile apps; these facilitate monitoring.

Why Choose Backstreet Surveillance?

At Backstreet Surveillance, we help businesses like yours get the best security camera systems. Whether you want remote video monitoring, traditional video surveillance monitoring, or a mix of both, we offer:

  • Reliable PoE security cameras

  • Dome surveillance cameras for every angle

  • PTZ security cameras with smart zoom and tracking

  • NVR surveillance systems for powerful recording

  • Outdoor cameras for 24/7 protection

Our experts will take you through every step of the day for installation and support, from the right setup choices. Your company deserves the best protection.

Read Also: A 2025 Complete Guide to Security Camera That Connects to Phone Without WiFi

Final Thoughts

Both remote video monitoring and traditional video surveillance have their strengths. The best choice depends on your business type, size, budget, and location.

  • Go traditional if you need constant on-site watching.

  • Choose remote for flexibility, mobile access, and smart alerts.

  • Or pick a hybrid for the perfect balance.

Remember, regardless of what you make your decision, a powerful security system is an investment in your peace of mind and future success. At Backstreet Surveillance, you can get the best video monitoring systems that are suitable for your needs.

FAQs

  1. What is Remote Video Monitoring?

Remote Video Monitoring allows you to view your business camera from your phone, tablet, or computer, regardless of where you are.

  1. What is a PoE Surveillance Camera?

Power over Ethernet (PoE) cameras receive electricity and data from cables. This makes it easy to install and extremely reliable.

  1. Do you need the internet to monitor video surveillance?

Traditional systems can work without the Internet. Remote video surveillance requires a stable internet connection.

  1. What is the best camera for external use?

Outdoor night vision cameras are ideal for non-business areas. They work well in complete darkness.

  1. Can you mix traditional systems with remote systems?

Yes! Many companies use hybrid systems that combine both the largest coverage and flexibility.