Quick Overview
- 1#1: Milestone XProtect - Scalable IP video management software for professional surveillance systems supporting unlimited cameras and advanced analytics.
- 2#2: Genetec Security Center - Unified security platform integrating video surveillance, access control, and license plate recognition for enterprise environments.
- 3#3: Verkada - Cloud-native video surveillance platform with built-in AI analytics for cameras and access control.
- 4#4: Eagle Eye Networks - Cloud video surveillance service providing remote management and AI-powered insights for businesses worldwide.
- 5#5: Avigilon Control Center - AI-enhanced video management system offering high-performance recording and intelligent search capabilities.
- 6#6: Axis Camera Station - User-friendly video management software optimized for Axis network cameras with live view and event management.
- 7#7: Bosch Video Management System - Flexible IP-based video surveillance solution for mid-to-large scale installations with operator-focused workflows.
- 8#8: Network Optix Nx Witness - Scalable video management system supporting thousands of cameras from multiple vendors with mobile access.
- 9#9: Hanwha Wisenet WAVE - Free, multi-server video management software compatible with ONVIF cameras for decentralized deployments.
- 10#10: iSpy - Open-source video surveillance software for monitoring IP cameras with motion detection and remote access.
We ranked these tools based on key attributes—including scalability, advanced analytics, ease of integration, and overall value—to ensure a curated list that caters to diverse needs, from small businesses to large enterprises.
Comparison Table
Selecting the right surveillance software is critical for effective security management, with options spanning enterprise-level platforms to those suited for smaller needs. This comparison table examines top tools like Milestone XProtect, Genetec Security Center, Verkada, Eagle Eye Networks, Avigilon Control Center, and more, detailing key features, scalability, and usability to help readers find the best fit for their operations.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Milestone XProtect Scalable IP video management software for professional surveillance systems supporting unlimited cameras and advanced analytics. | enterprise | 9.5/10 | 9.8/10 | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 2 | Genetec Security Center Unified security platform integrating video surveillance, access control, and license plate recognition for enterprise environments. | enterprise | 9.2/10 | 9.6/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.4/10 |
| 3 | Verkada Cloud-native video surveillance platform with built-in AI analytics for cameras and access control. | enterprise | 9.2/10 | 9.5/10 | 9.0/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 4 | Eagle Eye Networks Cloud video surveillance service providing remote management and AI-powered insights for businesses worldwide. | enterprise | 8.6/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.1/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 5 | Avigilon Control Center AI-enhanced video management system offering high-performance recording and intelligent search capabilities. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 6 | Axis Camera Station User-friendly video management software optimized for Axis network cameras with live view and event management. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 7 | Bosch Video Management System Flexible IP-based video surveillance solution for mid-to-large scale installations with operator-focused workflows. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 8 | Network Optix Nx Witness Scalable video management system supporting thousands of cameras from multiple vendors with mobile access. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.3/10 |
| 9 | Hanwha Wisenet WAVE Free, multi-server video management software compatible with ONVIF cameras for decentralized deployments. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 9.1/10 | 9.3/10 |
| 10 | iSpy Open-source video surveillance software for monitoring IP cameras with motion detection and remote access. | other | 7.8/10 | 8.5/10 | 6.8/10 | 9.2/10 |
Scalable IP video management software for professional surveillance systems supporting unlimited cameras and advanced analytics.
Unified security platform integrating video surveillance, access control, and license plate recognition for enterprise environments.
Cloud-native video surveillance platform with built-in AI analytics for cameras and access control.
Cloud video surveillance service providing remote management and AI-powered insights for businesses worldwide.
AI-enhanced video management system offering high-performance recording and intelligent search capabilities.
User-friendly video management software optimized for Axis network cameras with live view and event management.
Flexible IP-based video surveillance solution for mid-to-large scale installations with operator-focused workflows.
Scalable video management system supporting thousands of cameras from multiple vendors with mobile access.
Free, multi-server video management software compatible with ONVIF cameras for decentralized deployments.
Open-source video surveillance software for monitoring IP cameras with motion detection and remote access.
Milestone XProtect
enterpriseScalable IP video management software for professional surveillance systems supporting unlimited cameras and advanced analytics.
Open Platform architecture enabling seamless integration with 8,000+ cameras and thousands of third-party plugins without vendor lock-in
Milestone XProtect is a leading open-platform Video Management Software (VMS) designed for scalable IP video surveillance across small to enterprise-level deployments. It supports unlimited cameras and devices from over 8,000 manufacturers via ONVIF compliance, offering real-time monitoring, advanced analytics, and intelligent search capabilities. With variants like Essential+, Professional+, Expert, and Corporate, it caters to diverse needs including AI integrations, failover redundancy, and federated architecture for massive scalability.
Pros
- Unmatched scalability supporting millions of devices in federated setups
- Extensive open-platform integrations with 8,000+ devices and third-party analytics
- Robust cybersecurity features including FIPS 140-2 compliance and role-based access
Cons
- Steep learning curve for advanced configurations and management
- High upfront licensing costs for large deployments without volume discounts
- Requires significant hardware resources for optimal performance at scale
Best For
Enterprise organizations and security teams needing highly scalable, customizable surveillance with extensive hardware and software integrations.
Pricing
Free Essential+ for up to 8 devices; paid licenses (Professional+ to Corporate) are perpetual and quote-based, typically $50-200 per device/year plus server licenses.
Genetec Security Center
enterpriseUnified security platform integrating video surveillance, access control, and license plate recognition for enterprise environments.
Unified Architecture with role-based clients for seamless integration of video, access, ALPR, and analytics in one platform
Genetec Security Center is a comprehensive, IP-based unified security platform that integrates video surveillance (Omnicast), access control (Synergis), license plate recognition (AutoVu), and additional modules like intrusion detection and analytics into a single intuitive interface. Designed for scalability, it supports thousands of devices from over 700 third-party manufacturers, making it ideal for enterprise-level deployments. Key capabilities include real-time monitoring, advanced search with AI-driven analytics, customizable maps, and robust reporting for incident management.
Pros
- Exceptional scalability and integration with 700+ third-party devices
- Advanced AI analytics for object detection, behavior analysis, and forensic search
- Unified platform reduces need for multiple vendor solutions
Cons
- Steep learning curve for initial setup and configuration
- High upfront and ongoing costs, especially for large deployments
- Resource-intensive, requiring powerful hardware for optimal performance
Best For
Large enterprises, campuses, and critical infrastructure needing a scalable, all-in-one security management system.
Pricing
Quote-based enterprise licensing; typically $1,000+ per camera annually, plus base server fees starting at $5,000-$10,000.
Verkada
enterpriseCloud-native video surveillance platform with built-in AI analytics for cameras and access control.
Edge AI processing with cloud-based hypersearch for instant object-based video retrieval across unlimited cameras
Verkada provides a fully cloud-managed surveillance platform that combines high-definition cameras, access control, alarms, and sensors into a unified system. It eliminates the need for on-premises NVRs or servers by processing video streams at the edge and storing footage securely in the cloud, enabling instant remote access worldwide. Advanced AI features like people and vehicle analytics, license plate recognition, and smart search make it ideal for enterprise-scale deployments.
Pros
- Cloud-native management with no local hardware required
- Powerful AI-driven search and analytics for quick incident response
- Scalable across thousands of sites with unified dashboard
Cons
- High upfront costs for proprietary hardware
- Ongoing subscription fees can add up for large deployments
- Limited flexibility for third-party integrations compared to open systems
Best For
Medium to large enterprises needing scalable, low-maintenance surveillance with advanced AI analytics and multi-site management.
Pricing
Cameras start at $500-$3,000 each; cloud subscriptions range from $10-$50 per camera/month (Essentials, Plus, Enterprise tiers).
Eagle Eye Networks
enterpriseCloud video surveillance service providing remote management and AI-powered insights for businesses worldwide.
Unmatched camera interoperability supporting 7,000+ models for seamless hybrid and multi-vendor deployments
Eagle Eye Networks offers a fully cloud-native video management system (VMS) for IP surveillance, enabling remote access, storage, and management of video feeds without on-premises hardware. It supports over 7,000 camera models from more than 200 manufacturers and includes AI-powered analytics like license plate recognition, object detection, and advanced search capabilities. The platform emphasizes scalability, security with end-to-end encryption, and integrations with access control and alarm systems.
Pros
- Broad compatibility with thousands of camera models
- Powerful AI analytics and intelligent video search
- True cloud scalability with no hardware limits
Cons
- Subscription pricing can become expensive at scale
- Requires reliable high-speed internet
- Mobile app lacks some advanced desktop features
Best For
Mid-sized businesses and enterprises seeking scalable, hardware-free cloud surveillance with strong multi-camera support.
Pricing
Subscription tiers (Silver, Gold, Diamond) start at ~$6-12 per camera/month, plus storage fees; custom enterprise pricing available.
Avigilon Control Center
enterpriseAI-enhanced video management system offering high-performance recording and intelligent search capabilities.
AI-powered Appearance Search, enabling rapid visual identification and tracking of specific people or vehicles across multiple cameras.
Avigilon Control Center (ACC) is an enterprise-grade video management software (VMS) from Motorola Solutions that provides comprehensive surveillance capabilities for IP cameras, video analytics, and integrated security systems. It excels in managing large-scale deployments with real-time monitoring, intelligent search tools, and automation features to detect and respond to incidents efficiently. ACC supports on-premise and cloud-hybrid models, making it suitable for organizations needing robust, scalable video security infrastructure.
Pros
- Highly scalable architecture supporting thousands of cameras and users
- Advanced AI analytics like Appearance Search and Unusual Motion Detection
- Strong integrations with access control, alarms, and third-party systems
Cons
- Premium pricing that may be prohibitive for small businesses
- Steep learning curve for advanced configuration and customization
- Limited free trial options and opaque public pricing details
Best For
Mid-to-large enterprises and organizations requiring scalable, AI-enhanced surveillance for complex security environments.
Pricing
Custom enterprise licensing based on camera count, features, and support; typically starts at several thousand dollars annually—contact sales for quotes.
Axis Camera Station
enterpriseUser-friendly video management software optimized for Axis network cameras with live view and event management.
Integrated Device Manager for proactive health monitoring and remote firmware upgrades
Axis Camera Station is a scalable IP video management software (VMS) from Axis Communications, optimized for Axis cameras but supporting ONVIF-compliant third-party devices. It offers live monitoring, high-definition recording, intelligent event handling, forensic search, and mobile access for small to mid-sized surveillance deployments. Key capabilities include system health monitoring, automated firmware updates, and integration with Axis edge analytics for enhanced detection.
Pros
- Seamless integration with Axis cameras and edge analytics
- Robust event management with rules, alarms, and notifications
- Scalable architecture with health monitoring and mobile apps
Cons
- High per-channel licensing costs for small setups
- Steeper learning curve for non-technical users
- Limited free trial and advanced features require full license
Best For
Mid-sized businesses and security teams using Axis hardware for reliable, professional-grade surveillance.
Pricing
Perpetual licenses start at ~$349 for base + $169-$249 per channel; subscription from $12/channel/month; packs for 4-64 channels.
Bosch Video Management System
enterpriseFlexible IP-based video surveillance solution for mid-to-large scale installations with operator-focused workflows.
Seamless Bosch Intelligent Video Analytics (IVA) integration for real-time motion, object detection, and automated rule-based alarms.
Bosch Video Management System (BVMS) is an enterprise-grade IP video surveillance software that manages unlimited cameras, devices, and workstations for professional security operations. It provides live viewing, high-definition recording, intelligent playback, forensic search, and alarm management with geographic maps. BVMS integrates deeply with Bosch hardware like cameras, encoders, access control, and intrusion systems, supporting large-scale deployments up to 2,000+ cameras per site.
Pros
- Exceptional scalability for thousands of cameras and multi-site operations
- Deep integration with Bosch ecosystem including IVA analytics and access control
- Robust forensics and event management tools for quick incident response
Cons
- Complex setup and steep learning curve for non-experts
- Optimized primarily for Bosch hardware, limiting third-party flexibility
- High licensing costs without transparent public pricing
Best For
Enterprise organizations with Bosch infrastructure needing scalable, integrated video surveillance for critical security environments.
Pricing
Custom enterprise licensing per camera channel or workstation; base systems start at $5,000+, scaling significantly with channels and advanced modules.
Network Optix Nx Witness
enterpriseScalable video management system supporting thousands of cameras from multiple vendors with mobile access.
Automatic device detection and configuration across 12,000+ models with zero configuration for most ONVIF cameras
Network Optix Nx Witness is a powerful, open-platform Video Management System (VMS) for IP surveillance, supporting over 12,000 camera models from thousands of manufacturers via ONVIF and proprietary protocols. It provides comprehensive features including live viewing, high-resolution recording, intelligent motion search, video analytics, and customizable maps. The software scales from small setups with a free version to enterprise deployments with failover clustering and cloud integration.
Pros
- Exceptional compatibility with virtually any IP camera brand and model
- Powerful search tools including metadata-based filtering and face recognition
- Scalable architecture with server merging and high availability options
Cons
- Pricing escalates quickly for large deployments beyond the free tier
- Resource-intensive for high-camera-count systems without optimized hardware
- Advanced configuration requires technical expertise
Best For
Mid-sized businesses and enterprises needing a flexible VMS that integrates diverse camera hardware without vendor lock-in.
Pricing
Free forever for up to 8 cameras; perpetual licenses start at ~$100 per channel plus annual maintenance, with subscription options via Nx Cloud.
Hanwha Wisenet WAVE
enterpriseFree, multi-server video management software compatible with ONVIF cameras for decentralized deployments.
Clientless HTML5 web access for monitoring and management from any browser without software installation
Hanwha Wisenet WAVE is a scalable video management software (VMS) platform designed for surveillance applications, supporting live viewing, recording, and playback across single or multi-site deployments. It features an intuitive interface with HTML5 web client access, eliminating the need for software installations, and integrates intelligent video analytics like object detection and unusual motion recognition. The free version supports up to 16 cameras, making it accessible for small setups, while enterprise editions offer unlimited scalability with advanced features.
Pros
- Free version for up to 16 cameras with core VMS functionality
- Highly intuitive HTML5 web and mobile clients for easy access
- Strong integration with analytics and ONVIF-compliant devices
Cons
- Advanced analytics and scalability require paid licenses
- Optimized primarily for Hanwha cameras, with occasional third-party compatibility issues
- Limited customization options compared to enterprise competitors like Milestone
Best For
Small to medium-sized businesses or multi-site operators seeking a cost-effective, user-friendly VMS with quick deployment.
Pricing
Free for up to 16 channels; additional channels and features via per-camera licenses starting at ~$40-60/channel annually.
iSpy
otherOpen-source video surveillance software for monitoring IP cameras with motion detection and remote access.
Unmatched out-of-the-box support for over 6,500 ONVIF-compatible camera models
iSpy (now evolved into Agent DVR) is an open-source video surveillance platform that transforms a Windows PC into a full-featured security system, supporting IP cameras, USB webcams, and microphones for live monitoring, motion detection, and recording. It provides remote access through web browsers and mobile apps, customizable alerts via email or SMS, and advanced features like AI object recognition and floor plan layouts. With compatibility for over 6,500 camera models, it's ideal for DIY security setups.
Pros
- Extensive compatibility with over 6,500 camera models
- Powerful AI motion detection and object recognition
- Free open-source core with no licensing fees
Cons
- Steep learning curve for setup and configuration
- Primarily Windows-focused with limited cross-platform support
- Resource-intensive on lower-end hardware
Best For
DIY enthusiasts and budget-conscious users building custom home or small business surveillance systems.
Pricing
Free open-source version; optional cloud storage and support from $5/month.
Conclusion
Among the tools reviewed, Milestone XProtect emerges as the top choice, offering scalable IP video management with advanced analytics and support for unlimited cameras, making it ideal for professional systems. Genetec Security Center follows closely, standing out for enterprise environments with its integrated video surveillance, access control, and license plate recognition, while Verkada rounds out the top three with its cloud-native structure and built-in AI, suiting modern, decentralized setups. Each tool addresses unique needs, but Milestone XProtect leads as the most comprehensive and robust option.
Begin enhancing your security infrastructure by exploring Milestone XProtect—its scalable, feature-rich platform delivers the performance to meet even the most demanding requirements, from large-scale deployments to advanced analytics needs.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison