Comparative AI deployment framework: cloud, edge or server?

In today’s security and video surveillance landscape, Artificial Intelligence (AI) has become a core element of efficiency and innovation. But where should AI be deployed?
Should it run in the cloud, directly at the edge (inside cameras and devices), or on on-premise servers?

The answer is not one-size-fits-all. Each option has advantages and limitations. What truly matters is how AI events are filtered, delivered, and made useful for operators and customers (inside the uSee VMS by Arteco).

Cloud AI: scalability and orchestration

Cloud AI is more than storage: it is the central intelligence layer of modern security systems. It enables scalable AI deployment, orchestration across multiple sites, and continuous improvement of AI models.

Today, full video streams no longer need to be uploaded. Thanks to edge AI filtering or on-premise analysis, only key images, snapshots, or metadata are sent to the cloud, reducing bandwidth and cost, while respecting AI privacy requirements.

Key Benefits of Cloud AI:

• Scalable AI infrastructure across thousands of devices
• Centralized dashboards, orchestration, and analytics
• Continuous AI model training and updates
• Reduced network load thanks to filtered AI inputs

Best for: multi-site surveillance, smart cities, retail chains, and long-term AI video analytics.

Discover how forward-thinking partners are already bringing these innovations to life. Read more about our collaboration with Refraime.

Edge AI: real-time and hardware-dependent

Edge AI brings Artificial Intelligence directly into smart cameras and devices. It enables real-time AI analysis, instant detection, and works even without internet connectivity. It also strengthens AI privacy, as data stays local.

However, edge AI performance strongly depends on hardware. New-generation cameras handle advanced AI analytics, but older or less powerful devices may only support basic detection.

Key Benefits of Edge AI:

• Ultra-low latency and real-time AI responses
• Operates offline, even in remote locations
• Keeps sensitive data on-site
• Reduces false positives and bandwidth usage

Limitations:

• AI quality varies by camera model
• Less reliable for complex AI scenarios (behavioral analysis, firearm detection, etc.).

Best for: first-level filtering, AI motion detection, line-cross alerts, and bandwidth-limited environments.

Server AI: local power, declining role

Server-based AI used to be the standard in AI video analytics. It still offers compute power and full data control, but its role is declining as edge AI becomes more capable and cloud AI more efficient.

Key Benefits of Server AI:

• High-performance AI processing for demanding tasks
• Complete control of data and infrastructure
• Suitable for sensitive, regulated environments

Best for: hospitals, airports, and universities with strict compliance or where cloud is restricted.

From AI detection to operator action: uSee VMS by Arteco

Regardless of whether AI runs in the cloud, at the edge, or on a server, what matters most is how AI insights reach the operator.

Arteco’s uSee ensures that AI-driven events are:

• Filtered and relevant, not noise
• Linked to clear images, snapshots, or short clips
• Presented in a user-friendly AI interface
• Useful both to operators (fast response) and to clients (clear reporting)

This reduces false alarms, prevents operator overload, and transforms AI analytics into actionable intelligence.

Flexible AI deployment strategy

There is no single “best” deployment model.

• Cloud AI provides scalability and orchestration
• Edge AI ensures speed and privacy
• Server AI still matters in specific contexts

With uSee VMS, all these layers work together, bringing filtered and meaningful AI events into a single interface.
This means faster responses, smarter security, and real value for both integrators and end users.

Looking for an AI-driven VMS?
Discover how Arteco and uSee can help you deploy Artificial Intelligence across cloud, edge, and server environments, making your security system smarter, leaner, and ready for the future.