Verkada vs. Avigilon | 7 Ways to Maximize Your Security Investment in Colorado
Choosing the right smart camera system for your Colorado business can be a challenge—especially with strong contenders like Verkada and Avigilon leading the pack. Both brands offer high-performance surveillance solutions, but their differences in system architecture, user experience, and long-term scalability make a big impact on your investment.
At ABT, we help Colorado businesses like yours navigate these choices every day. Whether you’re securing a school in Loveland, managing retail locations in Denver, or protecting a warehouse in Pueblo, this guide shows you how to get the most from your investment—and how to choose the right platform for your needs.
Let’s break it down.
1. Ease of Deployment: Plug-and-Play vs. On-Prem Complexity
Verkada stands out with its plug-and-play setup. The system is designed to be intuitive from day one—with no need for NVRs, DVRs, or on-site servers. Once installed, your cameras are instantly connected to Verkada’s cloud platform, giving you remote access in minutes.
Avigilon, on the other hand, traditionally leans on a more on-premise-based architecture, especially with its ACC (Avigilon Control Center) software. While newer models offer cloud-connected options, setup often involves more technical configuration and greater IT involvement.
Colorado Advantage:
If your business is located in a remote part of the state—say, Durango or Steamboat Springs—Verkada’s cloud-native approach means fewer hardware headaches and quicker deployments without waiting on an IT team.
2. Camera Management Software: Verkada Command vs. Avigilon Control Center (ACC)
When it comes to managing your camera system, software is everything. Here’s a quick head-to-head:
Feature | Verkada Command | Avigilon Control Center (ACC) |
---|---|---|
User Interface | Clean, browser-based UI | Desktop client-based UI |
Cloud Access | 100% cloud-native | Hybrid, mostly on-prem |
Mobile App | Yes, very intuitive | Yes, but more limited |
AI Features | People/vehicle detection, license plate recognition, motion search | Advanced analytics, Unusual Motion Detection, Facial Recognition |
Access Control Integration | Native and seamless with Verkada access control | Possible but more complex |
System Updates | Automatic and cloud-pushed | Manual updates or via IT team |
Bottom line: If you’re looking for a simple, centralized dashboard with less technical lift, Verkada Command is hard to beat. Avigilon ACC offers deep features—but often requires more training and internal support.
3. Remote Monitoring Capabilities
If you’re managing multiple sites across Colorado, remote visibility is crucial. Verkada allows you to view all cameras from all locations in a single pane of glass—accessible via browser or mobile app, no VPN required.
Avigilon can also support remote viewing, but may require VPN access, firewall adjustments, or extra server configuration depending on your network.
Real-World Example:
A local property management firm we work with in Colorado Springs switched to Verkada to monitor 12 locations across the state. They now check cameras, control door access, and pull footage from their phones—all without calling IT.
4. Smart Analytics and AI Insights
Both systems offer AI-powered features, but their approach differs:
-
Verkada provides built-in analytics on all cameras. You get facial matching, people/vehicle filters, motion heatmaps, and license plate recognition across models—all via the same cloud dashboard.
-
Avigilon leans heavily into AI too, particularly with Unusual Motion Detection (UMD) and Facial Recognition. However, some features depend on using specific camera models and updated firmware.
Bonus Tip for Colorado Retailers:
Verkada’s heat mapping and occupancy trends are especially helpful in analyzing foot traffic at busy shopping centers during tourist seasons (think Breckenridge or Aspen).
5. Scalability and Future Growth
Verkada makes it easy to scale—add cameras at new locations and they auto-connect to your Command account. No reconfiguration or networking gymnastics needed.
Avigilon is scalable, too, but typically requires additional hardware and IT support as you grow. Expanding often means coordinating with an MSP or internal IT department for system design.
Why This Matters:
If you’re growing your business in Colorado’s booming Front Range corridor, Verkada offers a faster path to scale—especially if you don’t want to hire full-time IT.
6. Cybersecurity and Compliance
Security isn’t just about physical protection—it’s about your network and data, too.
-
Verkada uses end-to-end encryption, automatic software updates, and has strict access control policies. Their system is built with compliance in mind, including SOC 2 Type II and GDPR standards.
-
Avigilon is also security-conscious but requires manual patching and IT oversight to maintain compliance standards over time.
ABT Tip:
In industries like healthcare, cannabis, or finance, automated updates and role-based access in Verkada simplify your compliance journey—especially when paired with our managed security support.
7. Local Support and System Optimization with ABT
Whatever system you choose, local support makes a difference. ABT isn’t just a vendor—we’re a true technology partner for Colorado businesses.
We offer:
-
On-site assessments across the state
-
Remote support and training for your staff
-
System health checks to ensure peak performance
-
Consultation for integrations, such as access control and building automation
And when you choose Verkada through ABT, we help you fine-tune the platform to your workflow—from alert configurations to storage retention to smart search use cases.
So—Verkada or Avigilon? Here’s Our Take
Both systems are strong, but Verkada shines for:
✅ Easy deployment
✅ Cloud-first flexibility
✅ Intuitive software
✅ Seamless scalability
✅ Lower IT dependency
If you’re looking for a turnkey, modern system with top-tier support in Colorado, Verkada delivers speed, simplicity, and serious security.
Avigilon may be a better fit if your organization already has an established IT department and you’re seeking custom analytics or are committed to on-prem solutions.
Final Thoughts: Maximize Your Investment, No Matter What You Choose
No matter which platform you choose, your success comes down to how well you implement, manage, and optimize your system.
At ABT, we help you do just that—with tailored support, honest guidance, and a deep understanding of what Colorado businesses need to stay secure and compliant.
Next Steps: Ready to Explore Verkada or Compare Systems Side-by-Side?
📞 Call ABT for a no-pressure security consultation
📍 Schedule a free on-site walk-through anywhere in Colorado
🔍 Request a Verkada Command demo to explore the dashboard in action