Paxton Access Access Control Accessories  (27)

The UK Government has set out an ambitious ten-point plan, known as the green industrial revolution, with an aim “to forge ahead with eradicating its contribution to climate change by 2050.” This makes our government the first major economy to embrace such a legal obligation. Green recovery Acknowledging climate change and meeting net-zero is a demanding challenge especially for those affected by the pandemic. But the UK Government, with the launch of its aspiring strategy, is investing everything in its power to promote a ‘green recovery.’ Here, Reece Paprotny, Commercial Manager and Sustainability Champion at Amthal, highlights how the fire and security industry has an opportunity to use the current recovery period to explore its own sustainable journey and embrace the significance of environment, economic and social collaboration, transparency, and accountability. Employing sustainable technologies Pressure is mounting on construction to find ways to reduce emissions and help meet net-zero targets The perception is that COVID-19 presents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to re-write the existing rulebook. This is riding on the significance of changing public support for more environmentally friendly living opportunities, with associated cost savings, efficiencies, and cleaner industries. Innovative sustainable technologies are the key to kickstart this route to success.  Nowhere can this be seen more than in the built environment, which currently contributes to 40% of the UK's carbon footprint. Pressure is mounting on construction to find ways to reduce emissions and help meet net-zero targets. This is through the entire life cycle of a building, to reduce their impact on the environment from planning stages, through build and demolition. Building the right environment By creating the right policy environment, incentives for innovation and infrastructure, the Government can encourage companies to seize the sustainable opportunities of new technologies and value chains linked to green sectors. They can accelerate the shift of current carbon-intensive economic and industrial structures onto greener trajectories, enabling the UK to meet global climate and development goals under the Paris Agreement on climate change and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Transparent working practices Each industry sector is expected to engage and pledge its support to achieve the significant deadlines. Every company can make a difference, even with small steps towards a sustainable future. So while elements such as safety and security represent just one component of building the right sustainable environment, it paves the way to opening up our sector to greater efficiencies, transparent working practices, and encourages collaborative use of resources. Sustainability in security The security sector has a significant opportunity to incorporate ‘going green’ into its practices In fact, the security sector has a significant opportunity to incorporate ‘going green’ into their processes, and practices. This is right from product lifecycles to more environmentally friendly work practices when it comes to maintenance and monitoring services. When integrating environmentally friendly practices, starts with the manufacturing and production of the wide variety of systems in operation for the security sector. And some certifications and guidelines can be achieved, such as the ISO 14000 which looks into eliminating hazardous materials being used which in turn will reduce carbon footprint.  Upgrading supply chain process Observing the complete supply chain and working with partners to reduce unnecessary travel, shipments, and transportation of products, can all contribute and create sustainable processes.  In the maintenance and monitoring of products, it is essential installers and security specialists consider their own environmental impacts. Simple changes such as switching company vehicles to electric options for site visits can make a significant difference to climate change and improving air quality. Presenting sustainable ways of disposing of products at the end of their natural lifecycle is key to change in our sector. This is especially in the security industry where many customers will need a complete overhaul of outdated solutions or need systems upgrading due to changing threat levels. Sustainable evolution Progress is being made, specifically in the fire and security industry, in its sustainable evolution. Businesses are trying to develop a reputation for “sustainability” or “good corporate citizenship.” And it has gone well beyond the theory to the practical, where companies recognize activities have an impact on the environment and are also reviewing the social and economic influences. Three pillars of sustainability In a recent interview, Inge Huijbrechts, the Global Senior Vice President for safety and security and Responsible Business at Radisson Hotel Groups sees her vision to combine safety, security, and sustainability. Inge focuses on three pillars, namely, Think People, Think Community, and Think Planet. Think People means that we “always care for the people in our hotels and our supply chain.” So, in outwards communications, safety and security were always part of the Think People focus area. Think Community is caring and contributing in a meaningful way to communities where we operate. Finally, Think Planet makes sure that “our footprint on the environment is as light as it can be in terms of energy, water, waste, and carbon, and making sure that we incorporate sustainability into our value proposition.” Moving forward Apprenticeship schemes are integral to ‘think people’ and have a role to play in the social impact on the security industry There are immediate actions that can be taken by companies in the security industry to support sustainable development, working right from within a company to supporting industry-wide initiatives. From a social perspective, at a foundation level, “Think People’ can see the Living Wage Foundation as an example of a commitment to a team.  This is for businesses that choose to go further and pay a real Living wage based on the cost of living, not just the Government minimum. Apprenticeship schemes are also integral to ‘think people’ and have a pivotal role to play on the social impact on the security industry.  It addresses the sector-wide issue of finding employees with the right mix of skills to collaborate and meet discerning consumer demands for increasingly smart security solutions for homes and businesses. Impact of the full lifecycle of products From an environmental view, or ‘think planet,’ we need to collectively look at all elements of our industry, with a desire to analyze the impact of ingredients used, supply chain, or manufacturing alone, and also consider the full lifecycle of our selected products from creation to end of life. As Jamie Allam, CEO Amthal summarises, “This is a long-term, sustainable investment in our people, our products, and our business based on our values.” “When put together, a social team which feels empowers and operates in environmental optimum working conditions is in a position to provide a great experience to our customers, creating an economic positive difference. It forms the basis of a sustainable sector vision for the security industry-wide to adopt.” Taking action Amthal is taking action based on the ready-made universally agreed UN 17 Sustainable Development Goals. Also known as Global Goals, these are at the heart of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, adopted by all United Nations Member states. This agenda is a plan of action for people, the planet, and prosperity. By being an early adopter, we believe we can engage with customers, partners, and suppliers on these issues and generate opportunities to innovate for mutual and industry sector benefit. Together, we can contribute to building a more sustainable security sector and future, and contribute to the UK Government’s green industrial revolution.

Whenever you say the word “security” in today’s world of digitalization and technology, minds immediately jump to online security. Encryption, passwords, and website security are all common areas of concern for today’s security teams – so much so that we often pass over physical security installations entirely. But we shouldn’t, because contrary to popular belief, security doors aren’t just for banks and safes. High-security doors are deployed and used across everything from home spaces to offices, venues, communal entrances, and more – offering an extra level of safety designed to keep unwanted guests out and keep the people inside safe. In this blog, we will be uncovering some of the benefits of installing high-security doors besides the obvious – offering a high level of security. Benefits of high-security doors When you start telling someone about high-security doors, they often immediately think of thick steel doors with unbreakable locks. But modern security doors are nothing like that, with the marketplace filled with different options including ventilated louvre doors, reinforced hammer glass doors, and classic metal doors. And with each style comes a different set of benefits. 1) High-security doors keep businesses and properties safe If anything is going to put burglars off and keep your inside space safe, it’s high-security doors. High-security doors not only help keep burglars away but also saves on the cost of investing in expensive home security systems With such a wide array of options on the market, from double or triple glazing through to top-level security doors for industrial properties and homes, customers can choose the weight of their door and its finish – meaning that they have a choice between making their high-security decision obvious or concealing it for the benefit of aesthetics. This not only helps keep burglars away from your home or office space and reduces the crime rate, but also saves on the cost of investing in expensive alarms and home security systems. 2) Dual purpose benefits from top-level manufacturers Modern high-security doors from retailers like Premier SSL not only provide industrial-strength but are also classed as fire doors – meaning that they keep people inside safe on two accounts. On top of that, high-security doors no longer look like the entrance to a bank – in fact, most manufacturers now work with materials that deliver an aesthetically pleasing finish that can complement your building or inside space. This means you can benefit from everything from a wood effect finish to a decorative trim and more. 3) Cut costs in Winter and Summer Managing bills at home often mean juggling the art of keeping the house cool enough in summer and warm enough in winter. On one hand, with high-security doors which are effective fire doors and are made to measure and tailored to your home, the heat and warm air inside your home are trapped inside during the winter to keep your home cozy. This helps to cut the cost of heating and ensures your family is protected during the winter months. Mesh layered security Meanwhile, for those who opt for the mesh layered security doors or Louvre doors, in summer you can keep your home or inside space cool and filled with fresh air even while the doors are closed and secured. This ensures adequate ventilation and is a popular choice with homeowners today as it cuts the cost of bills and expensive air conditioning and helps prevent issues like mold which can occur in damp spaces with little airflow. Louvre security doors also help to retain the same level of privacy as a solid door but with a high level of airflow – making them ideal for communal areas and spaces with a high footfall. 4) Keep pets and children safe A security door is enough to deter a burglar to keep your little ones and pets safe and contained inside the house A security door is enough to deter a burglar – so is certainly more than sufficient to keep your little ones and pets safe and contained inside the house. Preventing access to dangerous situations such as being outdoors on their own and entering the kitchen on their own is a benefit that many families revel in – with a range of options including the mesh-covered security doors to retain ventilation and natural light and create more of a homely feel. 5) Feeling safe and secure in your own space This one may seem obvious but it’s one of the biggest benefits – feeling safe even when on your own. Security doors mean that you can rest easy in your own space, in complete control of the locking mechanism and the entry of anyone besides yourself. Most of the security doors recognized by modern standards can withstand ballistics and crowbar tampering – even those with ventilation breaks. On top of that, they have a certain degree of water tightness and resistance to wind, meaning that they also keep you safe from home or building damage. 6) Versatility The vast array of security doors on the market right now means that versatility is possible – in the way that doors are locked, the way that they look, and the additional features they provide. Many of the high-security doors we and other retailers offer also provide complete sound ventilation and are ideally suited to everything from a modern new build to something more traditional in its feel and aesthetics. Uses of security doors High-security doors are a popular addition to modern homes and office spaces, as well as communal spaces and venues As previously touched on, security doors are no longer just for banks and high-security institutes. High-security doors are a popular addition to modern homes and office spaces, as well as communal spaces and venues. The versatility presented by the locking mechanism and access tools means that users can select everything from an entry fob to a code and a traditional key as a means of getting inside. The Takeaway High-security doors are an increasingly popular solution for nurturing safety both in commercial spaces and private homes. With options from solid steel doors to louver doors, triple and double glazed doors, and fire doors available on the market for every space and with made to measure manufacturing options, it has never been easier to equip your home against intruders and keep your family or work team safe and comfortable. Best of all for the modern homeowner, high-security doors no longer create an eyesore – instead, reflecting the same design aesthetic focus as you might expect from an interior company.

The SolarWinds cyberattack of 2020 was cited by security experts as “one of the potentially largest penetrations of Western governments” since the Cold War. This attack put cybersecurity front and center on people’s minds again. Hacking communication protocol The attack targeted the US government and reportedly compromised the treasury and commerce departments and Homeland Security. What’s interesting about the SolarWinds attack is that it was caused by the exploitation of a hacker who injected a backdoor communications protocol.  This means that months ahead of the attack, hackers broke into SolarWinds systems and added malicious code into the company’s software development system. Later on, updates being pushed out included the malicious code, creating a backdoor communication for the hackers to use. Once a body is hacked, access can be gained to many. An explosion of network devices What has made the threat of cyberattacks much more prominent these days has been IT's growth in the last 20 years, notably cheaper and cheaper IoT devices. This has led to an explosion of network devices. IT spending has never really matched the pace of hardware and software growth Compounding this issue is that IT spending has never really matched the pace of hardware and software growth. Inevitably, leading to vulnerabilities, limited IT resources, and an increase in IoT devices get more attention from would-be hackers. Bridging the cybersecurity gap In the author’s view, this is the main reason why the cybersecurity gap is growing. This is because it inevitably boils down to counter-strike versus counter-strike. IT teams plug holes, and hackers find new ones, that is never going to stop. The companies must continue fighting cyber threats by developing new ways of protecting through in-house testing, security best practice sources, and both market and customer leads. End-user awareness One of the key battlegrounds here is the education of end-users. This is an area where the battle is being won at present, in the author’s opinion. End-users awareness of cybersecurity is increasing. It is crucial to educate end-users on what IoT devices are available, how they are configured, how to enable it effectively, and critically, how to use it correctly and safely. Physical security network A valuable product that tackles cybersecurity is, of course, Razberi Monitor™, which is new to ComNet’s portfolio. Monitor™ is a software platform that provides a top-down view of the physical security network and ecosystem. Monitor™ is a software platform that provides a top-down view of the physical security network and ecosystem It monitors and manages all the system components for cybersecurity and system health, providing secure visibility into the availability, performance, and cyber posture of servers, storage, cameras, and networked security devices. Proactive maintenance By intelligently utilizing system properties and sensor data, Razberi’s award-winning cybersecurity software prevents problems while providing a centralized location for asset and alert management. Monitor™ enables proactive maintenance by offering problem resolutions before they become more significant problems. Identifying issues before they fail and become an outage is key to system availability and, moreover, is a considerable cost saving.

Paxton announces the introduction of new Net2 Pro training. Easily accessible via the website, this virtual course enables installers to get the most from Net2 with free Net2 Pro training. Net2 access control Net2 access control is easy to install and designed to make the management of any building very simple. As a system, it offers a variety of IP video intercom, battery-powered door handles, and wireless or wired door controller hardware to suit any site requirement, and ensuring buildings run smoothly and remain secure. Designed specifically for installers who have completed Net2 Essential training, the Net2 Pro sessions are running throughout the year to help installers grow their business and provide additional benefits to their customers. Training highlights Paxton Net2 Pro training covers: Control unit installation and configuration using Net2 Pro software Integrating Net2 with third-party products such as CCTV and intruder alarms Unlocking the power and flexibility of Triggers & Actions Configuring area control and occupancy management Managing other applications within Net2 and additional hardware options Provides an understanding of Net2 Pro The session has been designed to give installers knowledge of the powerful features of Net2 Pro" Global Training Manager, Steve Woodbridge, said, “At Paxton, we have always been passionate about training and education. We meet thousands of installers in free training classes each year from all over the world. Launching Net2 Pro online training for our U.S. customers is so important, developing an understanding of the system capabilities.” “The session has been designed to give installers knowledge of the powerful features of Net2 Pro and how to configure them to benefit their customers.” Free of charge training Sessions will be delivered virtually, allowing installers to complete the course from their home, office, or wherever suits them best. The fully interactive, instructor-led, live training sessions will help installers to take a deeper dive into Net2 and prepare for upcoming installations. As always, the company is offering the training free of charge.

Paxton Inc. is pleased to announce that they have updated their Paxton10 camera offering, adding a CORE Series of cameras, alongside the existing PRO Series. The Paxton10 system combines access control, video management, free Bluetooth smart credentials, feature-rich software and now, the CORE and PRO Series of cameras. Edge processing  The new CORE Series cameras feature edge processing for ultimate scalability, built-in edge storage, and plug-and-play installation. The addition of the CORE Series gives installers new hardware, more options, and better value than ever before. Paxton has also reduced the price of their PRO Series cameras, providing a tailored video management solution at a cost-effective price. CORE Series of mini-dome and mini-bullet cameras The CORE Series of cameras includes mini-dome and mini-bullet options, both featuring 64 GB of built-in storage The CORE Series of cameras includes mini-dome and mini-bullet options, both featuring 64 GB of built-in storage and 4 MP resolution, at an incredibly competitive price. A turret option will also join the CORE Series soon. The CORE Series features the same high-build quality as the PRO Series, containing the required features to meet market expectations and make the Paxton10 system a suitable option for a wider variety of installations. Paxton10 system Jeremy Allison, Paxton’s Senior Product Manager explains, “The introduction of the new CORE Series cameras is the next step in the evolution of our innovative new system, Paxton10. Following the U.S. launch in February, we have taken the feedback from our valued dealers to refine and improve our camera offering to suit the needs of the market.” Jeremy Allison adds, “The real standout feature of our cameras is the edge processing capability, both the CORE and PRO Series cameras, include built-in storage to allow video footage to be processed and stored at the edge. This eliminates the need for expensive NVR'S and reduces installation time.” With this latest product launch, Paxton are pleased to offer a broader range of cameras, while retaining the simplicity that Paxton is known for, with a cost-effective CORE Series and feature-rich PRO option.

ISC West, in collaboration with premier sponsor Security Industry Association (SIA), has recently unveiled a robust lineup of event details for the upcoming ISC West 2021 event. Taking place July 19-21 at the Sands Expo & Convention Center in Las Vegas, ISC West proceeds into May with positive momentum and an optimistic outlook, as developments regarding vaccine distribution, Las Vegas re-openings, and trade event approvals have continued to move in an encouraging direction. Public safety professionals With attendee registration open, including the versatile opportunities available for security and public safety professionals to participate with this year, based on current insights and input, ISC West anticipates a strong step forward in returning to Las Vegas in the range of 50-60% of 2019 visitor levels. Not counting exhibit staff and speakers, this would estimate to around 10,000 core security & public safety professionals, while still providing a diverse and comprehensive range of solutions and exhibitors on the expo floor. After a long pause due to COVID, and in line with security professionals playing a key role as essential workers and leaders to get the economy back on track, reuniting the ISC community back together in-person at ISC West will be a stimulating event for moving the market forward. Major market transition Many new innovations have been emerging during this time of major market transition Prominent integrator, dealer, installer and practitioner organizations are signing on to attend, including security professionals from American Integrated Security Group, ASAP Security, BlackRock, City of Los Angeles, Department of Homeland Security, IBM, Lockheed Martin, MGM Resorts International, Molson Coors Beverage Company, National Football League (NFL), Nextgen Integrated Solutions, Siemens, Travellers Insurance, Utah Transit Authority and more, all of whom will be welcomed by an estimated 400+ exhibiting brands–roughly 35% of which are exhibiting for the first time at an ISC West event. Many new innovations have been emerging during this time of major market transition and disruption, which will be showcased on the expo floor and via the SIA New Product Showcase at ISC West. The 2021 Exhibitor List also not only features a wide-array of product solutions new to the market, but serves as a diverse access point to technologies from both premier manufacturers and hidden gems in the field—noting an influx of small-to-medium sized businesses participating for 2021. Major security events For example, a key sampling of exhibitors confirmed for this year’s event include: 3xLogic, ADT Commercial, Alarm.com, Allegion, Alula, Alvarado (a dormakaba Group company), Axis Communications, Axon, Alcatraz AI, Anno.Ai, Digital Monitoring Products, Genetec, Napco Security Technologies, Paxton Access, Skydio, and Seagate Technology. The entire ISC West team is excited to welcome back the industry in-person" “The entire ISC West team is excited to welcome back the industry in-person to Las Vegas this year. It’s been a very long 15 months, but as one of the first major security events to take place since 2019, we’re ready to safely get back to business,” states Mary Beth Shaughnessy, ISC Event Director. Implementing new guidelines “Our customers' health and safety is of utmost importance to us, and we’ll be taking proactive steps and implementing new guidelines and policies to help support a safe experience for our customers to network face-to-face with industry peers. We look forward to working with Mission 500, the SIA Women in Security Forum, SIA RISE, and other industry partners to converge the industry together. As this year’s event motto states ‘Safety. Security. Health. It re-starts here with ISC West.’–-we truly believe in this statement and cannot wait to accelerate market recovery together in Las Vegas!” Simultaneously, the SIA Education@ISC West Program recently revealed full conference details, highlighting 65+ sessions and over 115 confirmed speakers, in addition to this year’s Keynote Series Sessions featuring Dave Komendat, Vice President and Chief Security Officer, Enterprise Operations, Finance and Sustainability, Enterprise Services at The Boeing Company, and James Gagliano, Retired FBI Supervisory Special Agent, Law Enforcement Analyst, Adjunct Assistant Professor and Doctoral Candidate at St. John’s University. Keynote series sessions The schedule has also added a COVID-19 Response & Public Safety and Health track The dynamic SIA Education@ISC West Program and ISC West keynote series sessions are each designed to bring all new content on the most current business trends, technologies and latest industry developments. While popular sessions including the Active Shooter/Stop the Bleed Workshop and the dedicated Tec@ISC track (presented by PSA Security Network) will be returning for 2021, the schedule has also added a COVID-19 Response & Public Safety and Health track, featuring four sessions dedicated to the health and safety response in a post-pandemic, new normal world. Post-Pandemic health “SIA is excited to reconnect in-person with so many members and partners at this year’s ISC West,” said Don Erickson, SIA’s CEO. “Our learning and development team is working with an exceptional cadre of speakers this year to deliver a very relevant SIA Education@ISC program, addressing important topics like the cybersecurity of IoT solutions, business resilience and post-pandemic health and safety changes.” “We’re also pleased to deliver a strong complement of educational sessions for chief security officers and other practitioners and we look forward to announcing our SIA Women in Security Forum keynote speaker very soon.” Registration for the media is now open for ISC West 2021 and offers a variety of opportunities for one to cover this year’s event.