What does "compression" do to video data in CCTV?

Compression plays a crucial role in the management of video data in CCTV systems. It is designed to reduce the file size of the video, which is critical for efficient storage and transmission. This process involves using algorithms to eliminate redundant data and to simplify the information encoded in the video file, allowing CCTV systems to store more footage on available disk space and transmit video data more quickly and effectively over networks.

By minimizing the amount of data that needs to be stored or transmitted, compression helps to optimize bandwidth usage, which is especially important in scenarios where multiple cameras are in operation or where there are limitations in network capacity. This efficiency ensures that users can maintain a high level of surveillance without running into storage shortages or excessive network load.

The other options do not accurately describe the primary function of compression in this context. While image quality can be affected by compression, it is designed more to manage file size rather than enhance quality. Similarly, increasing file size is contrary to the purpose of compression, which aims to reduce it. Lastly, while video data distribution can occur across multiple networks, that is not the defining feature of compression; it specifically concerns the size of the video data being managed.