Multi-site video platform: 20-question buyer checklist

Short answer

Before you buy a video platform for many sites, ask every vendor the same 20 questions about cameras, storage, security, alerts and cost. Write the answers down and compare them side by side. This shows real differences that sales demos often hide.

Key points

• Check it works with the cameras you already have
• Know where video is stored and for how long
• Confirm user access, MFA and audit logs
• Compare the full 5-year cost, not only the licence

Last updated: 24 Oct 2026

A. Cameras and sites

1. Will it work with the cameras we already have? Ask for a tested list with models and firmware.
2. How many cameras and sites can one account handle?
3. What happens when a site's internet goes down? Does video keep recording?
4. How much internet bandwidth does each camera need?

B. Video storage

5. Where is the video stored – cloud, our servers, or both?
6. In which country is the cloud data kept?
7. How long is video kept, and can we change it per site?
8. What does extra storage cost?

C. Security and access

9. Can each user see only their own sites?
10. Is two-step sign-in (MFA) available?
11. Is video encrypted while moving and while stored?
12. Is there a record of who watched or downloaded what?
13. Which security certificates do you hold? Ask for copies with dates.

D. Alerts and analytics

14. Which analytics are ready today (not "coming soon")?
15. How do alerts reach people – app, email, SMS, control room?
16. Can we try the analytics on our own video first?

E. Support and cost

17. Who helps us set up, and how long does it take?
18. What support hours and response times are in the contract?
19. What is the full 5-year cost (licences, storage, support, hardware)?
20. Can we take our video and data with us if we leave?