Speech recognition on a local server or in the cloud: data protection, advantages and disadvantages
Speech recognition servers on the local network or in the cloud: requirements, data protection, security risks and the pros and cons of both models.
Organisations that process large volumes of audio or voice data run their speech recognition server either on a local server in the company network (LAN) or in the cloud. Cloud solutions are more flexible and scalable, while local operation gives the organisation full control over its data. In Europe, data protection is usually the deciding factor.
Data protection
Organisations in Europe must ensure that voice data is processed and stored in compliance with data protection law. Anyone choosing a cloud solution checks whether the provider meets the required data protection standards. If it does not, local operation is the better option.
For this reason, many organisations in Germany and Europe prefer local servers. Others use the cloud for its scalability and flexibility. The decision depends on the requirements of the individual organisation.
Requirements for the cloud
A speech recognition server in the cloud requires a fast and reliable internet connection and end devices with sufficient performance and storage. Devices and networks must be protected so that the voice data remains secure. Depending on the provider and the application, specific configurations may be needed.
Security risks in the cloud
- Loss or theft of access credentials such as passwords
- Interception of data during transfer to the cloud
- Attacks on the cloud provider in which data is stolen or damaged
You should therefore choose a trustworthy provider, back up your data carefully and transfer sensitive information only over an encrypted connection. Regardless of the operating model, the speech recognition server must deliver high accuracy and reliability.
Key points
- Cloud operation offers scalability and flexibility, local operation full control over the data.
- In Europe, the provider’s compliance with data protection law is the decisive selection criterion.
- The cloud brings additional requirements for connectivity, device protection and encryption.
The operating models DEVACON implements are described on the page Cloud, hybrid and on-premises.
This article comes from the DEVACON blog and was editorially revised for the new website.
More articles
ProPlayer: playback software for dictations on Windows and terminal servers
ProPlayer is the playback software for dictations on Windows, terminal servers and Citrix Virtual Apps. Features, compatibility and use in transcription.
Implement speech recognition: How to Calculate Economic Costs and Maximize Savings
Direct and indirect costs of speech recognition, a sample calculation for hardware and servers, and the savings from less manual data entry and correction.
USB dictation device or headset: a comparison for speech recognition
USB dictation device and headset compared for speech recognition: mobility, microphone quality, recognition accuracy and comfort as decision criteria.