The Top 10 Myths about Network Video

The IP-Surveillance solution shatters misperceptions surrounding networked video

By Fredrik Nilsson, General Manager, Axis Communications U.S. Inc.

Myth #2: IP technology is unproven. If it's better, why aren't security solution providers selling more?

Reality: This myth raises some very relevant questions that have more to do with security market structure and buying practices than with the performance and reliability of the IP-Surveillance solution.

IP-Surveillance is a relatively new technology and many existing, powerful players have a competing solution, the DVR. It's only natural that these players want to protect their investment in DVR-oriented solutions. Related to this, a new technology and a new mind-set require building up the knowledge and infrastructure among the integrators, consultants, and industry influencers in order to overcome normal, status-quo thinking and procedures. How many of us remember when we told typewriters provided all the technology required, who needs these new-fangled word processors? Too long ago? What about cassette players or that VCR you haven’t exchanged for a DVD just yet? Entrenched technology and entrenched interests require time to overcome.

The fact is, the number of IP-Surveillance installs out there is growing quickly, and the number of integrators and distributors is growing daily. It won’t be long before the market recognizes IP-Surveillance’s superiority, and then we’ll see a rapid increase in the installed base and infrastructure to support it.

If this argument is not compelling, we really don't need any further proof than the recent entry of a giant like IBM into the networked security market, as well as interest from players like Cisco and Proxim to drive and educate the market.

Myth #3:
IP-Surveillance cannot meet the demands of enterprise level applications.

Top 10 myths

What is IP-Surveillance?
Why misperceptions about IP-Surveillance technology?

Myth #1:
DVRs are the latest, greatest CCTV security technology

Myth #2:
IP technology is unproven. If it's better, why aren't security solution providers selling more?

Myth #3:
IP-Surveillance cannot meet the demands of enterprise level applications.

Myth #4:
Networked video image quality is not as good as analog.

Myth #5:
Network cameras cost more than analog cameras, making IP-Surveillance too expensive.

Myth #6:
If I already have analog cameras installed, IP-Surveillance isn't an option because I need a DVR.

Myth #7:
Transferring all that video data over my network will overload it, making this an unworkable technology.

Myth #8:
Transmitting video for security purposes over an IP network is not secure.

Myth #9:
IP-Surveillance is less reliable than alternative technologies; for instance, the network go down.

Myth #10:
IP-Surveillance is still five years away.

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