How long do security cameras store footage?

Typically, a security camera system (DVR/NVR) will store footage for between 7 and 30 days, with some high-capacity systems holding onto footage for months. In contrast, cloud storage solutions operate on a subscription basis: Basic plans typically only hold footage for a few days, while premium plans can last for weeks or months.

If a security camera is recording 24/7, the memory will quickly fill up and old files will be automatically deleted to continue recording, a process known as loop recording. Using motion-activated recording will save storage space by only recording when an incident occurs. However, cloud storage often comes with subscription plans that determine how long clips are kept, typically 7, 14, or 30 days.

With 24/7 continuous recording, CCTV systems have to shoulder a huge amount of storage, because the hard drive capacity needs to be large enough to retain all images recorded 24 hours a day for 1 month.

Wired camera – save to hard drive

With a wired system, image data will be stored directly on the hard drive of the recorder. Storage capacity depends on the number of camera eyes and the resolution of each device.

A 1-4 camera system using a 250GB to 500GB hard drive can store images for 3 to 6 weeks.
A system of 5 – 8 camera eyes, 500GB – 1TB hard drive will allow storage for about 5 – 8 weeks.
Larger systems of 9 – 15 cameras using 1TB – 2TB hard drives can maintain data for 6 – 10 weeks.

The advantages of wired cameras are long-term storage, stable images, high quality, and little interruption during recording.

Wireless camera – save to memory card

WI-FI cameras do not use hard drives but save directly to SD memory cards. Each camera will have its own memory card, with storage time depending on capacity and resolution. For example:

16GB card with 2MP camera can save about 2-3 days.
32GB card saves 4-5 days.
64GB card can save 10 to 15 days.
Some high-end camera models can use 128GB memory cards, which can save up to more than 1 month under conditions of good compression and motion recording.

Memory card cameras are very convenient, easy to install and do not cause aesthetic problems in the installation space. However, memory cards are easily full and can only store for a short time.

Cloud Camera

Data is uploaded to a remote server and can be accessed anywhere with internet. Storage time depends on the service package: 7, 14, 30, 60 or 90 days.

Cloud storage cameras have the great advantage of accessing data anytime, anywhere with just the internet, reducing the risk of data loss due to damage or theft of the device, and allowing the choice of flexible capacity packages to suit your needs.

In terms of storage, security cameras come in 3 types: DVR/NVR – Cloud – SD memory card, each with its own advantages and disadvantages, suitable for different needs.

To extend the storage time of footage, users can take several measures such as manually backing up important clips, using motion-based recording mode, reducing camera settings, or expanding storage by using a larger SD card or switching to a cloud storage plan with longer storage times.

If retaining footage is important (for legal, business or peace of mind reasons) users should not just rely on default settings but proactively adjust and upgrade their systems to ensure they always have access when needed.

Ngoc Nguyen (Synthesis)

Source: https://vtcnews.vn/camera-an-ninh-luu-tru-canh-quay-trong-bao-lau-ar966805.html