Video Management Software (VMS) plays a crucial role in the effective functioning of commercial security camera systems, especially those with larger camera counts and more advanced features. VMS is a software program that enables users to manage and record video footage from multiple security cameras deployed across a network. It is widely used by businesses, governments, and institutions to monitor and safeguard their premises and personnel.
As the demand for commercial security camera systems and VMS continues to grow, an increasing number of companies are developing software to cater to this demand. With numerous VMS options available in 2023, selecting the right one can be a daunting task.
To assist readers in selecting the most suitable VMS for their specific requirements, this article will identify the top VMS options available, helping users to make an informed decision.
What is VMS?
Video Management Software (VMS) is software used to manage and control video surveillance systems. It allows users to view live and recorded video footage, manage camera settings, and control video playback.
VMS software typically includes features such as motion detection, video analytics, and remote access. When selecting a VMS for your organization, it is important to consider factors such as scalability, ease of use, and compatibility with your existing hardware. Additionally, it is important to ensure that the software you choose meets any regulatory requirements or industry standards that may apply to your organization.
You can also check out our blog post titled ‘VMS vs NVR: Which Solution is Better for Your Business?‘ for further reading.
Why Use VMS?
Video Management Software (VMS) is an essential component of a security camera system, especially when managing a large number of cameras or advanced features are required. VMS software provides an efficient way to monitor, manage, and record video footage from multiple cameras and locations.
By using VMS, you can easily track and analyze security events, identify potential threats, and respond quickly to incidents. The software allows you to view live and recorded video footage, set up alerts and notifications, and control camera settings remotely. Additionally, it can integrate with other building security systems, such as access control and alarm systems.
Moreover, VMS provides an excellent way to improve operational efficiency and reduce costs. By automating tasks such as video recording, storage, and retrieval, you can save time and resources. This can lead to better decision-making, improved customer service, and increased productivity.
Best Video Management Software for 2023
Milestone
When it comes to selecting the best VMS Video Management Software for 2023, Milestone Systems is aone of the top picks for security experts due to its open architecture and ability to scale with any number or type of security camera.
This provides businesses with the flexibility to start small and expand their security camera systems as they grow. With the Xprotect Milestone Systems, businesses can easily integrate their security and building automation systems, making it a comprehensive and versatile solution for any business.
One of the reasons Milestone Systems stands out from the competition is its broad integration with IP cameras and other third-party systems. This flexibility allows businesses to choose the cameras that best suit their needs and integrate them into their security systems with ease.
Milestone also offers advanced features such as license plate recognition software and an alarm manager, providing businesses with additional tools to enhance their security systems.
In summary, Milestone Systems is a top pick for VMS Video Management Software for 2023 due to its flexibility, ability to integrate with various cameras and third-party software, and scalability. With excellent pre-sales and tech support, businesses can trust Milestone to provide them with the best solution for their security needs.
Avigilon
Avigilon is a strong contender for the top picks of VMS Video Management Software in 2023 due to its advanced software platform, the Avigilon Control Center (ACC). The ACC provides a user-friendly interface that enables users to easily access and manage video footage from various camera manufacturers making it a versatile solution for any business.
The ACC offers a range of advanced features, including occupancy counting, elevated temperature detection (ETD), facial recognition, and license plate recognition. These capabilities are powered by video analytics and AI-enabled technology, making Avigilon a leading solution for businesses looking for advanced video management capabilities.
One of the main reasons customers prefer Avigilon is its user-friendly interface and ease of use. The ACC’s polished and intuitive user interface makes it easy for new users to get accustomed to the software quickly. This, coupled with the excellent pre- and after-sales support from Avigilon, makes it an attractive option for businesses of all sizes.
Overall, Avigilon is an excellent choice for businesses looking for a VMS Video Management Software solution with advanced features, ease of use, and powerful analytics capabilities. With a one-stop-shop approach, end-to-end solution, and excellent support, Avigilon is well-positioned to be a top contender in the VMS market for 2023.
Genetec
Genetec is one of the top Video Management Software (VMS) for 2023. The most prominent feature of Genetec is its exceptional customer support. Their tech support team is known for being the smartest and most knowledgeable group in the industry. This level of support is unmatched, making Genetec a reliable choice for enterprise-level customers.
Additionally, Genetec offers a comprehensive and all-inclusive package that is competitive with other commercial-quality products. They have multiple licensing packages, making them accessible to a wider range of users. One of the biggest advantages of using Genetec is its integration options. Their access control camera system integration is one of the easiest to use and most robust on the market. This is likely because it’s an all-in-one package, eliminating the need to connect two disparate systems.
Despite being complex, Genetec offers a good balance between the number of features and ease of use. Their platform, Genetec Security Center, offers great flexibility and expandability as businesses grow and change.
They are widely compatible with various solutions, and their scalability is unmatched. This makes Genetec an investment rather than just a purchase for the end user. While ease of use may not be their strong suit, integrators appreciate their full-featured product, which is a great fit for enterprise customers.
Overall, Genetec’s features, integration options, and support make them one of the best VMS on the market in 2023. Their ability to provide an integrated solution with access control, license plate cameras, and monitoring auxiliary systems, as needed, sets them apart from their competitors. Despite their complexity, Genetec is a reliable and scalable solution for businesses looking to invest in a VMS.
Exacq
ExacqVision VMS provides real-time monitoring of video, audio, and data, making it a reliable choice for managing your security system. One of the standout features of ExacqVision is its powerful search capabilities, which allow for easy and efficient video review and investigation. Additionally, ExacqVision’s data integration capabilities make it easy to integrate with other retail and access control systems, further expanding its functionality.
ExacqVision is a user-friendly and flexible VMS that requires little to no training and can be installed in minutes. Its “easy connect” feature automatically finds and assigns IP cameras to the network, making it easy to add new cameras at any time without a base service fee. The software is also scalable, allowing you to manage up to 64 analog and 128 IP cameras.
ExacqVision’s video analytics for license plate recognition, heat mapping, and intrusion detection are all offered with high video throughput and minimal CPU and RAM requirements. With constant software updates, ExacqVision is an evolving system that keeps up with the changing security landscape.
Users praised its ease of use, stability, and feature set, with some even mentioning that they have been using it for years. However, some felt that the acquisition by Johnson Controls International was a negative, as it changed the company’s direction. Overall, ExacqVision is a powerful and reliable VMS that is well-suited for mid-sized systems and offers a wide range of features and functionalities.
Network Optix
When it comes to video management software (VMS), Network Optix stands out as one of the top picks for 2023. Despite being founded in 2011, which is comparatively recent when compared to other VMS providers that have been in business for an average of 10 years, Network Optix has gained a reputation for its simplicity, ease of use, and broad integration capabilities.
Nx Witness, Network Optix’s flagship VMS, is an open platform that is licensed once and comes with free upgrades. Integrators have praised the software for its enterprise-level features, which are included in the base package, such as failover, system merging, and the cloud connector. Furthermore, the Smart motion search feature is a favorite among integrators and end-users, as it is an excellent way to search for video when analytics are not available. Nx Witness also works well with almost any network-connected camera or NVR, making it an attractive option for users seeking a wide range of compatibility.
Integrators also laud Network Optix for its user-friendliness. They can train clients to be power users of Nx Witness in under 30 minutes, and end-users find it clean and straightforward to use. The ‘pay once’ licensing model is more palatable for small to mid-market businesses, making Nx Witness a budget-friendly option.
Overall, integrators seem to appreciate the simplicity and efficiency of Network Optix’s Nx Witness VMS, and it’s no surprise that it’s one of the top picks for VMS providers for 2023.
Eagle Eye
Eagle Eye Networks is a leading provider of video surveillance solutions that leverage an open, true cloud platform and AI technology. The platform enables businesses to transform their video surveillance systems into powerful tools that improve security, operations, and customer service.
One of the standout features of Eagle Eye Networks is its artificial intelligence capabilities. The Eagle Eye Cloud Video Management System can learn what is normal for a business, allowing users to focus on the most important events. Additionally, the platform provides real-time motion alerts and customizable detection areas for each camera, ensuring that businesses always know the status of their operations.
With Eagle Eye Networks, traditional video security systems are no longer necessary, as the enterprise-grade performance is easy to deploy, remotely manage, and integrates seamlessly with third-party systems. Overall, Eagle Eye Networks is an ideal choice for businesses looking to leverage the power of AI and cloud technology to improve their video surveillance systems.
OpenEye
OpenEye is a leading VMS Video Management Software for 2023 that combines the best of both worlds: the performance and reliability of local recording with the convenience and flexibility of the cloud. OpenEye offers a range of cameras, recorders, and software that prioritizes user-friendliness with its easy-to-use software interfaces. One of the standout features of OpenEye’s video export tools is its ability to export important video incidents to the cloud for safekeeping and instantly share them with coworkers or law enforcement.
OpenEye’s video surveillance systems are designed for future expansion and can be customized with redundant storage and power supplies to ensure uninterrupted recording when it matters most. The OpenEye VMS is an excellent choice for businesses looking to streamline their video surveillance operations and improve operational efficiency. By providing a secure, cloud-based solution that delivers a greater return on investment, OpenEye saves you time and money while providing a top-tier surveillance solution.
In a nutshell, OpenEye is a powerful and reliable VMS Video Management Software for 2023 that seamlessly integrates local recording with cloud-based functionality. Its user-friendly software interfaces, video export tools, and scalable systems make it an excellent choice for businesses looking for a secure, efficient, and flexible surveillance solution. OpenEye’s commitment to providing innovative and cutting-edge technology makes it a strong contender in the competitive world of VMS Video Management Software.
Video Management Software | Pros | Cons |
---|---|---|
Milestone |
|
|
Avigilon |
|
|
Genetec |
|
|
Exacq |
|
|
Network Optix |
|
|
Eagle Eye |
|
|
OpenEye |
|
|
Wrapping Up
Choosing the precise Video Management Software is crucial for ensuring the safety and security of people, property, and assets. With the right VMS, businesses, and organizations can improve their operations, streamline processes, and reduce costs while enhancing situational awareness and response times. By carefully evaluating the options and choosing a VMS that meets your specific needs, you can ensure that your organization is equipped with the right tools to stay secure and efficient in 2023 and beyond.
Written by : Carlo Di Leo
At the age of 24, with no experience in the security industry or any money in the bank, Carlo quit his job and started Spotter Security from his parent's basement. Founded in 2004, Spotter grew from a single man operation into a multi-million dollar security system integrator that caters to businessess and construction sites across Canada.