This article explains how Arcules' Camera to Cloud deployment works, which camera models support it and which customers find it most useful.
Camera to Cloud is Milestone Arcules’ most streamlined way to deploy cloud video management. It allows supported cameras from i‑PRO and Axis Communications to connect directly to the Arcules VSaaS platform—without on‑site servers or gateway appliances. Video is processed and stored at the edge, while management, search, and access live securely in the cloud.
With organizations increasingly adopting cloud-based VMS, Camera to Cloud provides a modern, scalable path to cloud video—ideal for multi‑site deployments, remote locations, and teams looking to reduce infrastructure and IT overhead.
Camera to Cloud is a cloud‑managed video architecture where supported cameras connect straight to the Arcules cloud service. There is no gateway required. Video analytics run on the camera, video can be stored on the camera SD card, in the cloud, or both, and metadata is sent to the cloud to power the full VMS experience.
At a glance:
- Direct camera‑to‑cloud connectivity (no gateway hardware)
- On‑camera AI analytics and edge computing
- Flexible storage: SD card, cloud, or both
- Centralized cloud management and access from anywhere
- Supported cameras connect directly to Arcules over the internet—no servers or gateways required on site.
- Analytics are processed on the camera, reducing bandwidth and enabling faster insights at the edge - which accelerates investigations and reduces cloud compute
- Video is stored locally on encrypted SD cards, in the cloud, or both, depending on configuration and bandwidth needs.
- Metadata flows to the cloud, enabling setup, device management, search, alarms, playback, and mobile access.
The result is a simplified edge architecture with the same robust, cloud‑managed VMS experience across all locations.
Once connected, Camera to Cloud cameras deliver the full Arcules cloud experience:
- Live and recorded video viewing across all sites
- Enhanced playback timelines with motion and object indicators
- AI‑powered people and vehicle forensic search
- Alarm rules, notifications, and remote investigation
- Secure access via web and mobile apps from anywhere
Reduced Infrastructure - Eliminate on‑site servers and gateway appliances. Fewer components mean faster deployments, lower maintenance, and reduced IT burden.
Lower Bandwidth Usage - Video is stored at the edge with flexible upload options, helping control bandwidth—especially at remote or low‑connectivity sites.
Edge AI Intelligence - On‑camera analytics enable advanced detection and forensic search without relying on centralized compute.
Flexible Deployment Options - Camera to Cloud works alongside Arcules cloud gateways, edge gateways, and within XProtect-Arcules integrated environments—so each site can use the architecture that fits best.
Secure by Design - Encrypted SD card storage, strong cybersecurity controls, and cloud‑managed updates help ensure data protection and compliance.
Ready to see it in action? Book a demo
Camera to Cloud supports a growing ecosystem of cloud‑ready, AI‑capable cameras from leading manufacturers—giving customers choice without lock‑in.
Axis Communications
Camera to Cloud is compatible with a broad range of Axis cameras based on ARTPEC‑8 chipsets. These devices include built‑in Axis Object Analytics, strong on‑camera compute, and long product lifecycles—making them a reliable choice for gateway‑free deployments.
i‑PRO
Camera to Cloud now includes i‑PRO cameras, expanding choice for customers standardized on i‑PRO hardware. i‑PRO cameras deliver advanced edge-AI with built‑in people and vehicle detection, industry‑leading cybersecurity with NDAA/TAA‑compliant hardware, ISO/IEC 42001–certified AI, and flexible SD card storage—well suited for Camera to Cloud architectures.
Supported models continue to expand. Always refer to the official supported device lists for the latest updates
Camera to Cloud is not just a replacement for gateway-based architecture; it’s ideal for specific environments and customer needs. It delivers the most value when:
You have remote or distributed sites with minimal IT support - Many organizations operate small or unmanned locations such as retail stores, clinics, franchise locations, or school campuses. Camera to Cloud eliminates on‑site hardware and keeps maintenance nearly effortless.
Your sites have low camera counts - Traditional gateways can be oversized or cost‑inefficient for sites that only need a few cameras. Direct‑to‑cloud architecture offers a lighter, more affordable alternative.
You have limited or variable bandwidth - On‑camera storage + motion‑based uploads help maintain visibility even in low‑connectivity environments.
You want flexibility in how you modernize - Camera to Cloud works alongside gateway architectures, allowing phased migrations, hybrid deployments, or new cloud‑first installations without forcing a single architecture across every site.
You prefer a serverless, low‑touch environment - Removing servers and gateway hardware dramatically simplifies operations and enhances reliability.
Many customers begin with a pilot site—often a remote or smaller location—to experience the simplicity of Camera to Cloud firsthand. From there, deployments can scale site by site, mixing Camera to Cloud with other Arcules architectures as needed. If you're ready for a one-on-one, personalized presentation, then please book a demo!
If you'd like to learn more about Arcules, including answers to frequently asked questions, please check out this more detailed article.
- View supported Camera to Cloud devices (Axis Devices, i-PRO Devices)