Overview

Modern video surveillance systems are no longer isolated security tools; they are mission-critical platforms integrated into IT, operations, compliance, and safety workflows. As the number of users, departments, and operational scenarios increases, fine-grained permission control becomes essential.

ACTi NVR 3 introduces three levels of customizable permissions designed to balance security, operational efficiency, and compliance, enabling organizations to assign the right access to the right users at the right time—without compromising system integrity.

Why Permission Control Matters in Modern VMS Platforms

Traditional surveillance systems often rely on simple “admin vs. viewer” access models. This approach creates several risks:

• Over-privileged users increase insider threat exposure
• Accidental system misconfiguration by non-IT staff
• Compliance violations due to unrestricted access to video evidence
• Operational inefficiencies when permissions cannot be tailored by role

ACTi NVR 3 addresses these challenges by implementing multi-layered, customizable permission control aligned with enterprise IT security best practices.

Overview of ACTi NVR 3 Permission Architecture

ACTi NVR 3 adopts a role-based access control (RBAC) model that separates system responsibilities into three distinct permission layers:

• System-Level Permissions
• Device & Resource-Level Permissions
• Operation & Feature-Level Permissions

Each layer can be independently configured and combined to form precise user roles.

Permission Layer 1: System-Level Permissions

Purpose

• Controls access to core system administration functions.

Key Capabilities

• User and role management
• Network and storage configuration
• System maintenance and firmware upgrades
• License and service management

Typical Roles

• IT administrators
• System integrators
• Authorized service personnel

Security Value

• Prevents unauthorized system changes
• Reduces risk of accidental misconfiguration
• Supports IT governance and audit requirements

Permission Layer 2: Device & Resource-Level Permissions

Purpose

• Defines which devices and resources a user can access.

Granular Controls

• Camera group access (by site, zone, or function)
• NVR channel visibility
• Live view vs. playback access
• Storage and archive access

Typical Roles

• Security operators (per site or region)
• Operations managers
• Control room staff

Operational Value

• Enables multi-site and multi-department deployments
• Prevents cross-site data exposure
• Simplifies large-scale system management

Permission Layer 3: Operation & Feature-Level Permissions

Purpose

• Controls what actions users can perform within the system.

Configurable Actions

• PTZ control (pan/tilt/zoom)
• Video export and evidence download
• Alarm acknowledgment and handling
• AI analytics access and configuration
• Event search and forensic tools

Typical Roles

• Investigators
• Supervisors
• Compliance officers

Compliance Value

• Protects evidentiary integrity
• Supports chain-of-custody requirements
• Aligns with privacy and data protection policies

Example Role Configuration Scenarios

Scenario 1: Large Transportation Hub

• IT Admin: Full system-level permissions
• Control Room Operator: Live view + PTZ only for assigned terminals
• Investigator: Playback and export access, no system changes

Scenario 2: Critical Infrastructure Facility

• Security Manager: Alarm handling + analytics review
• External Auditor: Playback view-only, no export
• Maintenance Contractor: Limited device diagnostics access

Key Benefits of ACTi NVR 3 Customizable Permissions

• Enhanced Security – Least-privilege access reduces attack surface
• Operational Efficiency – Users see only what they need
• Scalability – Suitable for single-site to nationwide deployments
• Compliance Readiness – Supports internal audits and regulatory requirements
• Reduced Human Error – Clear separation of duties

Conclusion

ACTi NVR 3’s three-layer customizable permission framework provides organizations with a robust, flexible, and future-proof access control model. By combining system-level governance, resource-level segmentation, and action-level control, ACTi enables enterprises to deploy surveillance systems that are not only powerful—but also secure, compliant, and operationally efficient.