Physical security is a concern for organizations of all sizes. They must take steps to ensure the safety of people, property and assets amid rising rates of workplace violence, theft and other crimes. Colleges, universities and K-12 schools must also reduce the risk of gun violence, bullying, harassment and other threats to students and faculty.
Many foundational physical security measures — access controls, alarms and cameras — have been around for many years. They traditionally operated independently, requiring hands-on management while leaving gaps that could compromise security. However, advanced technologies are transforming physical security into a tightly integrated, intelligent and easy-to-manage platform.
Cloud-managed physical security lies at the forefront of this transformation. By integrating security systems into cloud-based platforms, organizations can eliminate many capital investments, simplify remote management, and leverage AI and analytics to gain greater insight into their physical security posture.
Core Benefits of Cloud-Managed Physical Security
Internet of Things (IoT) devices led the first wave of change in physical security systems. IP cameras, entry systems and other devices connected to the data network without the need for a separate network for security. However, these solutions created the need for servers, storage and networked video recorders. Organizations traded one type of complexity for another.
With cloud-managed security, they can leverage the simplicity, ubiquity and scalability of the cloud to streamline monitoring and management functions. Cloud-based servers and storage eliminate the need to purchase, install and maintain this equipment. Devices can be added as needed without concern for processing or storage capacity. The cloud has virtually infinite resources, enabling organizations to scale their security systems up or down as needed. New features and upgrades are immediately available so that organizations always have access to the latest technology.
The cloud also enables real-time monitoring of security systems from anywhere. This makes it easier to manage multiple locations without onsite staff and enables faster response to incidents.
Incorporating AI, Analytics and More
Many of these tasks can be automated, further increasing efficiency and reducing costs. Cloud-managed physical security systems can review and analyze video and other data, homing in on specific incidents. AI-enabled systems take this a step further, analyzing data in real time to identify unusual activity or potential threats. This enables a more proactive approach that improves overall safety and security.
Advanced tools can also analyze data over time to spot trends and provide insight into the organization’s overall physical security posture. For example, these systems can analyze traffic patterns, employee schedules, deliveries and other seemingly unrelated data to identify the potential for theft or fraud. Armed with this information, organizations can allocate physical security resources more effectively.
Integrating all physical security devices in one cloud-managed platform eliminates blind spots and creates a single point of administration. These systems can also be integrated with building management systems (BMSs), IT service management systems (ITSMs) and more to accelerate user provisioning and provide end-to-end visibility into security across the organization.
Smarter Buildings, Greater Safety
These integrations enable physical security systems to be used as a smart building platform. Access control systems can trigger HVAC systems and lighting to turn on and off based on building occupancy. Network-connected sensors can monitor CO2 levels and increase ventilation as needed. With AI, these systems can learn to predict occupancy patterns and weather conditions to optimize energy usage and operational efficiency.
They can also improve emergency management. For example, sensors can monitor the movement of people during a fire so that firefighters know how many have exited, how many remain in the building and where they are located.
Verteks now offers the Verkada physical security system, a complete solution encompassing video security, access control, video intercom, air quality sensors, alarms, visitor management and mailroom products. Verkada delivers all the benefits of cloud-managed physical security, with a platform-based approach that’s easy to monitor, manage and scale. Let us help you evaluate Verkada and select the right tools to improve the safety and security of your facilities.
