Digital sovereignty in video infrastructure:

Why is data protection only really possible with your own infrastructure?

Company data is the most valuable asset. There is agreement on that.

What people often disagree on: Where do you store your data? Especially when it comes to video storage, the simplest or cheapest solution is often chosen. For companies that work with sensitive content, however, it is crucial not only to use functional SaaS solutions, but also to pay attention to where and how they are operated. Digital sovereignty is therefore more than just a trend — it is the basis of trustworthy IT strategies.

The 3Q video platform is the best example of perfect collaboration between data protection, security and sovereignty in a powerful European video infrastructure. In this article, you will learn why digital sovereignty is crucial, especially when it comes to video hosting, and what companies should definitely consider.

What does digital sovereignty mean in an IT context?

Digital sovereignty refers to the ability of a company or a state to operate digital infrastructures, data and systems independently, securely and in a controlled manner, without dependencies on third parties.

In the context of companies, this means:

• Full control over your own data, systems and workflows
• No unwanted data transfers to third countries
• Free choice of storage location, data access rights and encryption
• Minimizing risk through government or economic influence from outside

In short, anyone who controls their data protects their trade secrets, customer relationships, and compliance.

Is GDPR-compliant hosting possible with US clouds?

Numerous software providers declare themselves to be GDPR-compliant, but continue to store user data with hyperscalers such as AWS, Azure or Google Cloud — i.e. on infrastructures under the jurisdiction of the USA. Although the GDPR generally requires technical and organizational data protection, the ECJ ruling “Schrems II” (2020) has clearly clarified: Data transfers to third countries such as the USA are not compatible with European data protection requirements unless an equivalent level of protection is guaranteed.

This means that even if providers offer functional security measures, even the server location outside the EU or the possibility of access by US authorities can compromise GDPR compliance.

In case of doubt, the companies themselves and not the provider are liable.

Why is having your own infrastructure a prerequisite for data protection?

The most secure basis for true GDPR compliance is a self-controlled IT infrastructure operated entirely in the EU. 3Q follows exactly this approach:

• Operating own server locations in Europe
• No dependency on US cloud providers
• ISO/IEC 27001 certified data centers
• GDPR-compliant data processing consistently at all levels
• Physical and digital access controls
• Encryption, tokenization, geoblocking, domain whitelisting, and SSO

This ensures that companies can understand, control and audit where their content is and who has access at any time.

Why should companies rely on independent SaaS providers?

SaaS solutions with their own infrastructure offer companies strategic advantages:

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Companies that are aware of their responsibilities to customers, employees and partners should rely on providers who not only offer practical solutions, but also control and security.

Is 3Q's video infrastructure secure?

3Q offers companies a comprehensive video platform that covers all technical requirements — from live streaming and video on demand (VoD) to AI-based workflows and media management.

Highlights:

• Live & On-Demand Video with automated live-to-VOD conversion
• Intuitive video CMS for central administration, distribution on all channels
• Comprehensive user and rights management
• HTML5 video player which is barrier-free and optionally cookie and consent free
• White label player & media library with CI branding
• Video AI for transcription, subtitling, translation, automated chapters, thumbnails, metadata, and more
• Analytics & monetization

All of this is handled entirely via 3Q's own infrastructure, with no hidden cloud redirects or third-party dependency. Fully GDPR-compliant and secure.

As a European provider, 3Q offers a video platform that combines data sovereignty, technological performance and modular scalability in one solution. For companies looking for security, compliance, and trust, this is not just an alternative, but a truly sustainable option.

Conclusion: Without digital sovereignty, there is no real data protection 

Digital sovereignty is the basis for genuine data protection. Choosing a video platform shouldn't be a question of convenience or price — it's a strategic decision.

With increasing data protection requirements and increasing regulatory complexity, it would be irresponsible to rely on solutions whose infrastructure is beyond your control.

On this topic, you can also read the interview with Julius Thomas, CEO of 3Q GmbH.

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