[bhauer]

> [Do] you think that such a device just shouldn't exist for anyone?

No. I apologize if that's what you took from my statement.

I hope the future sees technological evolution that makes it easier for common people to self-manage their devices. Presently, doing so requires more time and thought investment than traditional "cloud" options. For example, it took me a bit of time to set up a self-hosted NVR with a network of IP cameras. But in an ideal world, Dropcam-like devices would exist and provide an option during setup: "Do you want to use our video hosting service or run your own? If you choose your own, you'll need to install some software on a computer..." The Dropcam software is really well designed, it's just a shame I can't run it on my own server.

Like I said, it's idealistic wishful thinking. But if people want to use services hosted by third-parties, I don't want to take that option away.

[JustSomeNobody]

Definitely wishful thinking. Anything consumer oriented will be forced to the cloud and use proprietary protocols.

There simply aren't enough of us who want control of our own data to make a difference.