About Cloud Storage - Cloud Storage is a service from Genetec Inc. that extends on-premises storage for Security Center Omnicast™ into the cloud. Video archives in Cloud Storage benefit from extended retention periods, secure and redundant storage, and seamless retrieval from Security Desk. - Security Center 5.13

Security Center Administrator Guide 5.13

Product
Security Center
Content type
Guides > Administrator guides
Version
5.13
Release
5.13
ft:locale
en-US
Last updated
2026-01-28

Cloud Storage is a service from Genetec Inc. that extends on-premises storage for Security Center Omnicast™ into the cloud. Video archives in Cloud Storage benefit from extended retention periods, secure and redundant storage, and seamless retrieval from Security Desk.

NOTE: Video archives can include video and audio files.

Main features

With a Cloud Storage subscription, you can store video archives in the cloud while continuing to use the full capability of your Security Center system. Cloud Storage offers:

  • Longer retention periods for your video archives.
  • Protection and continued availability of your video archives in case of disaster.
  • Flexible storage capacity that adjusts your changing needs.
  • Lower capital expenditures and reduced maintenance costs for your storage system.
NOTE: Genetec Inc. remains committed to evolving with customer needs through continuous updates. Our software maintains compatibility across multiple versions to ensure seamless functionality and integration. The Cloud Storage product line requires a version of Security Center within three versions of the latest release. For example, Security Center version 5.13 maintains backward compatibility with versions up to 5.10. This approach helps reduce risks associated with outdated software and ensures a consistent, reliable experience.

How it works

Cloud Storage flowVideo recorded on-premises and stored by ArchiversAfter a set period in localstorage,videoarchives are uploaded to the cloud12Playback video processed by Cloud Playback role to serve all client stations3User-defined cloud retention period for each access tierPerformanceLong-term

Cloud Storage extends your video management system. The Archiver role continues to manage your cameras. Cloud Storage works as follows:

  1. The Archiver role records video archives on-premises and retains them according to your local retention policy.
  2. After a configurable period in local storage, the system uploads video archives to the cloud.

    In the cloud, video archives are assigned to an access tier based on your cloud retention policy.

  3. When needed, the Cloud Playback role retrieves specific video archives from the cloud and streams them to client stations.

Access tiers

Video archives in Cloud Storage are assigned to an access tier. The tier affects both the availability of video archives and the cost of your Cloud Storage subscription. The following tiers are available:

Performance tier
Provides quick playback of video archives from the cloud. Recordings in the Performance tier are available to all clients and federated users connected to the system.
Long-term tier
Provides low-cost storage for retention periods of 180 days or longer. Video archives in the Long-term tier are not available immediately and must be retrieved from Security Desk. Access to requested files is typically granted within 15 hours. Retrieved files remain available in the Performance tier for seven days.

To control costs, video archives typically remain in the Performance tier for a short time before moving to long-term storage, depending on your requirements.

Subscription required

Cloud Storage is available by subscription. For more information about subscription options, contact Genetec™ Sales.