When creating users in DW Spectrum by Digital Watchdog, administrators must decide whether to assign Local Accounts or Cloud Accounts.

The correct choice depends on how and where the user needs to access the system, as well as how you want to manage security and credential control.

Local User Accounts

Use a local account if:

• The user will only access cameras from on-site client workstation(s).

• Access should be confined to a single system.

• There is no requirement for remote or mobile access.

Tradeoffs

• Password resets must be performed directly at the server/NVR.

• There is no self-service password recovery.

• Administrative access is required to modify credentials.

Important: Local accounts can still be configured with granular permissions per user. However, in practice, environments using local accounts sometimes default to shared or generic logins for convenience, which can reduce accountability if not carefully managed.

Local accounts are appropriate for fixed-location operators or environments where remote access is intentionally restricted.

Cloud User Accounts

Use a cloud account if:

• The user requires remote access (home, offsite office, laptop, etc.).

• The user will utilize the mobile application.

• Self-managed password recovery is preferred.

• You want simplified individual account management.

How Cloud Accounts Work

• The user creates a cloud account using their email address (work email recommended).

• The administrator assigns that email address to the DW Spectrum system.

• Permissions are applied based on the user’s role.

• If a password is forgotten, the user can reset it through the cloud portal.

Cloud accounts provide 24/7 self-service password recovery and reduce administrative overhead.

Security & Account Management Considerations

Both local and cloud accounts support granular permissions.

The operational difference comes down to ease of management and user accountability:

• Cloud accounts naturally encourage individual user credentials.

• Individual credentials improve auditability and accountability.

• Accounts can be modified or disabled quickly without affecting other users.

• Reduces reliance on shared or generic logins (for example, creating an “Office” account used by multiple staff members).

Shared credentials — whether local or cloud — reduce traceability and increase risk. Individual user accounts are considered best practice in most IT and security environments.

Important Consideration

Cloud credentials function anywhere DW Spectrum is installed, including desktop clients and mobile devices.

Permissions should always be scoped carefully based on role, camera access requirements, export rights, and administrative authority.

Summary

• Local Accounts = On-site only, fully controlled at the server level. Support granular permissions but require hands-on management.

• Cloud Accounts = Remote capable, mobile compatible, self-managed credentials, and streamlined individual account control.

Selecting the appropriate account type ensures proper security posture, operational efficiency, and user accountability.