ADT® Authorized Dealer Serving Wausau & Surrounding Areas
Homeowner checking out camera footage on a mobile device
May 18, 2026

What's The Right Choice: Local Or Cloud-Based Security Camera Storage?

Video cameras are a smart way to deter prowlers, keep an eye on packages, and keep tabs on everything taking place around your Wausau home. If you’re looking into a home security package with cameras, you will want to know about video storage. There are basically two choices: local and cloud storage. Discover the benefits and downsides of each to determine what works best for your household.

What Is Cloud And Local Storage For Video Cameras?

Saving footage to the cloud means you’re storing it on a secure remote server, usually in a center managed by the equipment manufacturer. Videos are protected by encryption and only accessible through a secure login. Video is stored as clips (10- to 30-second event-based recordings) or in a longer recording.

Local storage means that video clips or extended recordings are saved to physical storage devices within your home or directly to the camera. Similar to cloud-based storage, video will be encrypted and accessed with the proper credentials.

What Home Security Camera Storage Option Is Best For Your Wausau Home? 

While many providers are moving to cloud-based home security camera storage, the decision is up to you. Review pros and cons of each.

Benefits Of Cloud Storage

  • If something happens to your camera, the video still exists online.
  • Clips are typically quick to retrieve and accessible from anywhere using a smartphone app.
  • More affordable at the onset as no on-site storage hardware is required.
  • Scalable to meet changing needs.

Cons Of Cloud-Based Storage

  • It usually requires a subscription.
  • If you lose internet, the video won’t save to the cloud.
  • You are counting on the provider to secure your data.
  • Video uploads and downloads require plenty of bandwidth.

Pros Of Local Storage

  • You maintain complete control of your footage.
  • No recurring subscription fees.
  • Video saves during an internet outage.
  • Store recordings and clips as long as you’d like (depending on storage capacity).

Downsides Of Local Storage

  • Accessing clips is frequently slower, primarily when doing so remotely.
  • Storage space can be low. Confirm before you buy.
  • Storage devices like microSD cards and hard drives usually come at an extra cost.
  • There is a greater risk of losing video if the camera is damaged or destroyed.

Google Nest Cameras With ADT Security In Wausau Is An Ideal Choice

If you like the idea of partnering with the industry’s top names and accessing your video quickly from wherever you are, look into an ADT plan with Google Nest surveillance. When installing a Google Nest video doorbell and outdoor cameras, you’ll get a Nest Aware subscription at no additional cost. This includes 30 days of event video history. Step up to Nest Aware Plus and get access to 60 days of event-based camera storage and 10 days of 24-hour continuous coverage. Check with your installer for up-to-date pricing and available features. 

A standout feature of Google Nest outdoor cameras is how they’re able to store an hour of footage locally during a Wi-Fi outage. Once Wi-Fi returns, video will save to the cloud.

Bolster Your Home Defense: Get An ADT Package With Video Cameras In Wausau

Prevent intrusions and access video recordings from wherever you are with ADT home security in Wausau from Secure24 Alarm Systems. As your trusted ADT dealer, we give you access to the best in surveillance, including Google Nest cameras with cloud-based storage. Dial (715) 256-7915 today or submit our simple form to get started.

Take the Security System Pricing Quiz to See Instant ADT Package Options