How They Work, What They Cost, and When You Need Them
Virtual patrols, also known as virtual guard tours or remote guard tours, are scheduled or continuous checks of a property performed remotely by trained security professionals using live camera feeds, sensors, two-way audio, and other devices and technologies. Instead of a Security Officer physically walking the site, a central monitoring team watches multiple locations at once, speaks directly with intruders in real time, and dispatches on-site security officers or local police when a threat is verified.
That’s the short version. Below is exactly how virtual patrols work, how they compare to on-site guards and passive cameras, what they typically cost, and answers to the most common questions businesses ask before switching to VirtuGuard™ remote guarding.
How Do Virtual Patrols Work?
A virtual patrol system runs on three layers:
- Detection Devices: Cameras, motion sensors, and analytics software (often AI-assisted) are installed at key points around a property, like entrances, perimeters, loading docks, parking areas.
- Central Monitoring Center: Trained security personnel watch live feeds, review recorded footage, and verify sensor alerts from Command Centers, whether it’s one property or fifty.
- Real-time Response: When AI flags or Agents observe suspicious activity, an Agent verifies it on camera, issues a live audio warning directly to the intruder, and, if necessary, contacts local law enforcement or on-site staff.
Because the “patrol” is a scheduled or continuous review of live video rather than a physical walk-through, a single operator can cover ground that would otherwise require several on-site guards working in shifts.
Virtual Patrols are Centralized
The security personnel monitoring the system can then use virtual guard touring software to “patrol” the site remotely. This software allows security officers to view live video feeds from the cameras and monitor sensor data from the other devices. They can also receive alerts if any of the sensors detect a security breach or if the cameras detect any suspicious activity.
Virtual patrols can be automated
Once the monitoring devices are in place, the system can operate around the clock without requiring security personnel to be physically present. The result is often significant cost savings for organizations since they no longer need to pay for on-site security guards. The system can be configured to send an alert if an anomaly is detected.
Multiple sites can be monitored simultaneously
Virtual patrols are especially useful for organizations with multiple remote locations that must be monitored. Virtual patrols allow security personnel to watch all these locations from a single central location, making detecting and responding to security breaches easier.
Virtual Patrols vs. On-Site Guards vs. Traditional CCTV
| Virtual Patrols | On-Site Guards | Traditional CCTV | |
| Monitoring | Real-time, by trained remote guards | During foot or vehicle patrols | Recorded only, usually reviewed after an incident occurs |
| Coverage | Multiple sites from one central station, no blind spots between patrols | One location, one guard at a time, gaps between patrols | Continuous recording but no active response |
| Response to a Live Incident | Real-time audio warning + police/patrol dispatch within seconds | Direct physical intervention (higher risk to guard) or entirely missed incidents | None, footage is only reviewed after the fact |
| Typical cost for 24/7 coverage for one site | As low as a couple hundred dollars, up to a few thousand monthly | Roughly $12,000–$18,000/month for a fully staffed 24/7 post (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data puts on-site guard billing rates around $25–$35/hour) | Camera and storage costs only, no monitoring labor cost, but no active deterrence either |
| Best for | Multi-site portfolios, after-hours coverage, large perimeters | Sites needing physical access control or a visible on-site presence | Evidence collection, insurance and liability documentation |
Cost ranges above reflect industry-reported figures as of 2026 and will vary by region, site size, and camera count. For BOS Security-specific pricing, see our detailed cost comparison.
Frequently Asked Questions About Virtual Patrols
How much do virtual patrols cost compared to a security guard?
Full 24/7 on-site guard coverage typically runs $12,000–$18,000/month once you account for multiple shifts, overtime, and turnover. Virtual patrol/remote monitoring for a comparable site typically runs a few hundred to a few thousand dollars per month, since one operator can monitor several properties at once.
Can a virtual patrol operator actually stop a crime in progress?
Yes, indirectly. Operators can’t physically intervene, but they can issue a live audio warning that causes many intruders to leave immediately, and they can dispatch law enforcement while the incident is still happening, often faster than an on-site guard could reach the same spot on a large property.
Is virtual patrolling as effective as having a guard on-site?
For deterrence and detection across a large or multi-building property, virtual patrols are often more effective, because a monitored camera network has no blind spots and doesn’t need to physically travel between checkpoints. For situations requiring physical access control, ID checks, or an arrest, an on-site guard is still necessary — many businesses use both in a hybrid model.
What kind of businesses use virtual patrols?
Construction sites, auto dealerships, self-storage facilities, warehouses/distribution centers, retail lots, and multi-location businesses that need consistent after-hours or perimeter coverage without staffing a guard at every site.
Do virtual patrols work at night and in bad weather?
Yes. Cameras used for virtual patrols typically include infrared, thermal, or low-light capability, so monitoring continues around the clock regardless of lighting or weather conditions.
Is virtual guarding the same as a home security camera app?
No. Virtual guarding involves a professionally staffed monitoring center with trained security personnel actively watching feeds and responding to alerts, not just a homeowner or business owner checking a phone notification.
BOS Security’s Approach: VirtuGuard™
BOS Security’s virtual patrol service, VirtuGuard™, pairs live camera monitoring with trained security personnel who can issue real-time audio warnings and coordinate law enforcement response. In one documented case, a VirtuGuard™ operator stopped an armed robbery in progress without putting any security personnel at risk.
If you’re evaluating whether virtual patrols make sense for your property, request a free security assessment or call 404-793-6965.