Security guards are good — video surveillance is better. Here's why

Burglary, vandalism, theft, and sabotage are the main reasons why businesses rely on security personnel. A night guard at the gate can be a strong deterrent to potential offenders. Security staff can undoubtedly ensure a quick response when a threat is identified — a crucial factor when every second counts. However, this only works if the guard is present at the scene to notice the incident.

Once a high-risk area along the patrol route is no longer monitored, offenders often wait for their moment and strike in an instant — even if a guard passed by just moments earlier.

Traditionally, security guards were the primary method of securing premises. But in this article, we’ll explain why video surveillance is a more advanced and effective alternative.

What to consider when relying on security personnel:

1. Predictable blind spots due to limited coverage

Unfortunately, guards cannot be everywhere at once. Scheduled patrols create predictable security gaps that offenders can exploit. They observe the site, learn the patrol patterns, and time their attacks during unmonitored moments.

2. High personnel costs

Hiring qualified security guards — especially in high-risk areas — often results in substantial expenses. These costs can strain budgets and lead companies to cut back on critical security measures, increasing long-term vulnerability.

3. Human limitations

Humans are fallible — whether due to fatigue, illness, or distraction. Security guards can be lured away, overpowered, or simply fail to notice a threat. Larger teams and centralized check-ins can help reduce this risk but also drive up costs and delay reactions.

Video surveillance offers stronger, smarter security:

24/7 monitoring, detection, and intervention

Unlike human patrols, video surveillance ensures continuous monitoring and immediate detection around the clock. With automated systems supported by multiple control center operators, even false alarms are documented and reviewed. In emergencies, operators can intervene immediately or coordinate with police — any time of day.

AI detection: Smarter decisions with human-AI collaboration

By integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into surveillance systems, detection accuracy is significantly improved while reducing operator error. AI can detect suspicious activity, raise alerts, and support human decision-making in real time. At NESTOR, AI services continuously learn and improve, making surveillance more effective every day.

Cost-effectiveness

Given today’s budget pressures, video surveillance is a more cost-efficient solution compared to traditional guarding. At NESTOR, daily monitoring costs about as much as a good lunch. Thanks to our monthly service model, you always have access to cutting-edge surveillance technology that adapts flexibly to your risk profile — at the best price point on the market.

The ideal solution: synergy between guards and smart surveillance

The best security setup is a smart combination of on-site personnel and video systems. By integrating NESTOR’s AI-powered cameras, detection, and control center support, you create a robust security infrastructure. AI and the control center detect threats; security staff respond in person. Even without on-site guards, NESTOR’s partner network and rapid police coordination ensure protection within seconds of detection.

Video surveillance is not just modern — it's more effective, efficient, and economical than traditional guarding. With NESTOR, it’s not an extra — it’s your all-around security solution.

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