Cloud-Based Security Camera System Deployment & Campus Security Modernization

Verkada Security Camera Installation with AI Analytics and Structured Cabling Across Multi-Building College Campus

This Maryland college was operating with an outdated video surveillance system that relied on on-premises hardware and lacked cloud capabilities, limiting scalability, accessibility, and overall system efficiency. In addition to aging infrastructure, the organization faced gaps in camera coverage across campus facilities, creating potential security blind spots. To address these challenges, the institution required a comprehensive cloud-based security camera system deployment to enhance campus safety, improve visibility, and eliminate the burden of managing legacy hardware.

To meet these objectives, the organization partnered with Data Networks and its subcontractor to deliver a full campus security camera modernization project, centered around the deployment of a Verkada hybrid cloud surveillance solution. This approach enabled the institution to transition to a modern, cloud-managed platform featuring AI-driven analytics, simplified management, and long-term reliability without the need for on-premises servers.

The project began with detailed planning and site validation, ensuring camera placement aligned with security priorities identified during stakeholder walkthroughs. Based on this assessment, the solution included the installation and configuration of 151 Verkada indoor and outdoor cameras across multiple campus buildings, along with two dedicated viewing stations for centralized monitoring.

As part of the structured cabling and surveillance infrastructure deployment, the implementation team installed CAT6 Ethernet cabling to support the new camera system. Existing cable runs were leveraged where possible to optimize efficiency, while new cabling was installed throughout interior and exterior environments to ensure full coverage. Conduit was installed as needed to protect and conceal exterior cabling, and all penetrations were properly sealed to maintain building integrity and compliance with industry standards.

The deployment also required specialized installation considerations, including the use of lifts for elevated camera placement and strategic positioning to maximize field of view across high-traffic and critical areas. All cabling work was completed with a focus on durability, performance, and long-term reliability.

Each camera was fully configured and integrated into the Verkada cloud platform, enabling features such as real-time monitoring, remote access, and AI-powered analytics. The system provides 30 days of onboard video storage per camera, along with secure cloud backup supported by enterprise-grade infrastructure. With automatic firmware updates, unlimited user access, and no ongoing maintenance or software management requirements, the institution now benefits from a highly efficient and scalable surveillance solution.

Additionally, the Verkada platform delivers industry-leading reliability, backed by a 99.99% uptime service level agreement and a 10-year hardware warranty. This ensures long-term performance, reduced operational overhead, and predictable system lifecycle management.

The engagement concluded with system validation, user enablement, and operational guidance to ensure the institution’s security team could effectively leverage the new platform. As a result, the college now operates a modern, fully integrated cloud-based security camera system, providing enhanced campus safety, improved situational awareness, and a scalable foundation for future security initiatives.

Tags: Hi-Ed, higher education, networking, security