Open Platform Video Management: 5 Key Differences

When upgrading your business security, the most critical decision isn’t just about resolution or night vision—it’s about the ecosystem. Many businesses unknowingly walk into a trap by choosing video surveillance systems that lock them into a single vendor.

In this guide, we will break down the critical differences between “Closed” (Proprietary) and “Open” ecosystems, helping you decide which cloud security cameras are right for your long-term growth.

The security industry has shifted dramatically from analog tapes to digital streams. However, simply moving to the cloud isn’t enough. You need to understand the architecture. Video surveillance systems generally fall into two categories: closed systems (like Verkada) where the hardware and software are inseparable, and open systems (like Eagle Eye Networks or Milestone) that allow you to mix and match.

A closed ecosystem, often referred to as “proprietary,” creates a walled garden. You buy the manufacturer’s camera, and you must use their software and cloud subscription. If you cancel the subscription, the cameras often become expensive paperweights. While these systems are user-friendly initially, they lack flexibility.

Open platform video management is the opposite of vendor lock-in. It is a software-centric approach that separates the Video Management System (VMS) from the camera hardware. This allows businesses to use cameras from different manufacturers (like Axis, Hanwha, or Bosch) all on one interface. This flexibility is crucial for IT directors who demand control over their infrastructure.

Outbound Link: Learn more about global open standards at the ONVIF Official Website.

The backbone of an open system is compatibility. This is where ONVIF compliant cameras come into play. ONVIF is a global standard that allows IP-based security products from different manufacturers to communicate. By insisting on ONVIF compliance, you ensure that if you change your cloud provider in the future, you won’t have to rip out and replace all your cabling and cameras.

Growing businesses need scalable video surveillance. In a closed system, adding a new location might require buying entirely new proprietary gateways. In an open cloud environment, you can often add cameras to the network instantly.

To make an informed choice, you must understand the recording backend. While traditional setups used DVRs, modern open systems leverage flexible VMS solutions that can run on NVRs or directly in the cloud.

Many users search for Verkada alternatives after realizing the limitations of strict hardware lock-in. The best cloud video surveillance solutions for enterprise are those that offer:

1. Eagle Eye Networks: True cloud open platform.

2. Milestone Systems: Powerful VMS compatible with thousands of devices.

3. Avigilon Alta (formerly Ava): Offers both cloud-native and third-party support.

An open platform also protects you from geopolitical risks. For example, if a specific camera brand is banned due to national security concerns, an open system allows you to replace only those cameras without changing your entire software backend.

Finally, the power of open platform video management lies in integration. You can link your video feed directly with access control systems like Brivo. This allows you to visually verify who is unlocking a door. Learn how these systems work together in our article: Cloud Access Control Systems: 10 Reasons to Upgrade to Brivo

Choosing between closed and open systems shapes your security for the next decade. While closed systems offer simplicity, open platforms offer the freedom, budget control, and scalable video surveillance that modern businesses require.

• Internal Link: If you are ready to move forward, start by planning your system