Video surveillance

Gallagher Security's High Sec T30 Keypad Reader has achieved approval under the UK National Protective Security Authority's (NPSA) Readers and Keypads standard, further strengthening Gallagher’s suite of NPSA-approved solutions for high-security environments. The approval reinforces Gallagher's commitment to developing security technologies that meet some of the world's most rigorous physical and cybersecurity standards, while expanding the company's trusted high-security offering for customers across the UK and Europe. High-security solutions Jason Hunter, High Security Manager – UKI, says the approval is particularly significant for organizations operating within highly regulated sectors. "NPSA approval is widely recognized as a benchmark for security excellence, and the High Sec T30 strengthens Gallagher's ability to deliver trusted, end-to-end high-security solutions for government, defense, critical national infrastructure, and utilities across the UK and Europe,” says Jason. Sean Kelly, Gallagher Security Product Manager, says the achievement reflects the award-winning global security manufacturer’s focus on helping organizations protect their people, assets, and operations against evolving security threats. “Designed for sites where security cannot be compromised, the High Sec T30 has a nice formfactor for situations that don’t require a screen. The reader supports card and PIN authentication and has been engineered to deliver reliable performance in demanding environments,” says Sean. "Achieving NPSA approval for the High Sec T30 is an important milestone for Gallagher and further validates the strength of our high-security portfolio.” Highly sensitive sites "Organizations responsible for critical infrastructure and highly sensitive sites need confidence that their security solutions have been independently assessed against stringent government standards. This approval provides that assurance, while offering End Users a resilient, high-performance reader solution." The High Sec T30 supports MIFARE DESFire EV1, EV2, and EV3 credential technologies, alongside secure HBUS communications, dedicated FIPS 140-3 cryptographic secure storage, and supports legacy credential technologies such as MIFARE Classic and MIFARE Plus. Built for challenging environments, it features an IP68 environmental protection rating, IK09 impact protection rating, integrated rear optical tamper detection, and a dedicated arming key with alarm zone status indication. National security expectations The High Sec T30 joins a growing list of Gallagher solutions recognized by the NPSA. The High Security C7000 was awarded Automatic Access Control Systems (AACS) and Cyber Assurance of Physical Security Systems (CAPSS) in January 2026. Gallagher was also the first manufacturer to achieve both CAPSS 2021 and AACS 2022 approvals for its Command Centre and High Security Controller 6000, demonstrating the company's longstanding commitment to delivering solutions that meet the highest physical and cybersecurity requirements. “We have a proven track record protecting critical infrastructure, government facilities, and high-security sites globally, and Gallagher continues to invest in technologies that help organizations create secure, resilient environments while meeting evolving national security expectations,” says Jason.

Matrix Comsec, a provider of enterprise-grade physical security solutions, announced a technology integration with Veracity, a UK-based technology company specializing in video surveillance and integrated security management solutions. The integration enables security operators to access supported Matrix cameras, recordings, and NVR events through the VIEWSCAPE interface. Matrix SATATYA NVRs provide access to connected cameras and recorded video, while Veracity VIEWSCAPE brings these resources into a centralized operating environment. Operators can view live video, play back and export recordings, capture snapshots, monitor NVR-generated alarms, and control supported Matrix PTZ cameras from VIEWSCAPE. Supported Matrix NVRs and their associated cameras can also be discovered and managed within the platform. Large-scale surveillance deployments Speaking about the association, Tarun Sharma, Senior Vice President, Marketing, Matrix Comsec, expressed, “As security infrastructures expand across large enterprises and critical environments, the need for centralized security operations is becoming increasingly important. This integration gives Matrix customers a practical route to manage their NVR video and events within VIEWSCAPE, while extending the range of Matrix video resources available to Veracity’s customers. For both companies, it creates a stronger foundation for interoperable solutions and gives customers greater confidence that their technology investments can work together.” Mohd Faisal, Sales Director, Veracity Systems Surveillance Pvt Ltd., India, quoted, “VIEWSCAPE is designed to bring diverse security technologies together into a common operational environment, giving security teams greater visibility and control. Integrating Matrix NVRs and cameras into VIEWSCAPE expands the video surveillance capabilities available to our customers while enabling them to manage Matrix video resources alongside other security systems. The collaboration demonstrates the value of open integration in building scalable and centralized Command & Control environments.” The integration is designed for enterprises, command and control centers, critical infrastructure, and large-scale surveillance deployments, enabling organizations to manage multiple Matrix NVRs and supported video operations through the VIEWSCAPE Command & Control platform.

Constellis, a provider of integrated security and risk management solutions, announces it has been awarded a contract to provide 24/7 access control and physical security services for Project Matador at Fermi America’s Main Campus near Amarillo, Texas. Fermi is building Project Matador, a next-generation private power grid designed to support hyperscale AI and advanced computing. The campus is expected to integrate multiple power sources, including natural gas, nuclear, and solar. Focused on safeguarding personnel Under the agreement, Constellis will provide security personnel, mobile and static security operations, and site-level access control. The services are focused on safeguarding personnel, property, and daily activity at the campus. “For decades, Constellis has supported critical infrastructure operations where security is closely tied to safety, reliability and disciplined execution,” said Paul Donahue, President of Global Security Systems at Constellis. “Our experience in complex energy, nuclear and government environments give Fermi a physical security partner that understands the importance of access control, procedure compliance and 24/7 operational consistency.” Enhancing operator response Constellis’ operations will be supported by LEXSO™, Constellis’ Layered Extended Security Operations platform. LEXSO™ integrates sensors, AI-enabled analytics, automated workflows and decision-support tools into a single operating picture. The combined solution of professional security personnel and the sensor-agnostic LEXSO™ platform are designed to work together across varied security environments, enhancing operator response. “We bring the right technology to unify sensors and data so security teams can act faster and with better information,” said Jason Rahimitabar, Executive Vice President of LEXSO™ at Constellis. “LEXSO™ is intended to help Fermi manage high volumes of sensor activity, reduce false alarms and move from alert to response more efficiently. Using an AI-enabled-platform supports trained personnel with clearer information and a more consistent process.” As energy, data and AI-related facilities become larger, more complex and more essential, customers need security partners that can integrate specialized expertise, trained personnel and technology into a coordinated operating model. Constellis is built to meet that demand, drawing on the capabilities of its businesses to support Fermi with a practical, scalable approach to physical security.

Matrix Comsec, a provider of integrated, enterprise-grade physical security solutions, has received the CII Award for Best Company for Excellence in R&D – Silver in the Electronics, Space & Defense category. The award was presented at the CII Global Summit on Industrial R&D & Competitiveness 2026, held on October 7, in Bengaluru, under the theme “Powering India's R&D for Global Impact.” The recognition highlights Matrix's commitment to indigenous research and its engineering-led approach to developing reliable, enterprise-ready technologies. With end-to-end in-house R&D, the Company brings together research, product design, development, and engineering to address complex security challenges and deliver solutions built for performance, scalability, and long-term value. Developing indigenous technologies Matrix's R&D ecosystem comprises two dedicated R&D laboratories and more than 250 R&D professionals, with capabilities spanning hardware, embedded systems, software, artificial intelligence, video analytics, and cybersecurity. This integrated approach has enabled Matrix to develop indigenous technologies across its Video Surveillance, Access Control, Time-Attendance, and communication solutions. The technology developments of the Company include an indigenously designed PTZ camera, a 96-channel Network Video Recorder with RAID resilience, and the COSEC ARGO FACE200T touchless biometric solution.  Its research efforts have contributed to 47 registered intellectual property assets. The company has also developed capabilities in AI-based face recognition, object classification, automatic number plate recognition, and secure platform architectures. Solving real-world challenges Speaking on the recognition, Mr. Sundar Subramanian Pillai, AVP Product Management, Matrix Comsec, said, “We are honored to receive the CII Award for Excellence in R&D. For us, R&D has always been more than developing products; it is about building engineering capabilities that enable us to solve real-world challenges and create technology with lasting value.” “This recognition reflects the dedication of our R&D teams to developing indigenous technologies and extending our engineering capabilities to address evolving customer needs. We remain committed to strengthening our R&D ecosystem and advancing technologies that contribute to India's technological capabilities and global competitiveness.” Future of industrial research The Summit brought together policymakers, industry leaders, R&D and technology heads, researchers, academia, and international experts to discuss the future of industrial research, innovation, and global competitiveness. The programme featured international participation from WIPO and delegations representing Japan, Germany, Israel, and Russia, alongside representatives from CSIR, INAE, and INSA. This recognition reinforces Matrix’s commitment to purposeful innovation, engineering excellence, and indigenous technology development. Through continued investment in in-house R&D, Matrix remains focused on developing integrated, scalable, and reliable technologies that address real-world enterprise challenges and deliver measurable outcomes.

Control room operators face a tricky and ever-growing list of responsibilities. Every day, they're expected to monitor dozens, sometimes hundreds, of camera feeds, identify suspicious behavior, and respond quickly when something goes wrong. Add in a constant stream of alerts, many of which turn out to be false alarms, and it's easy to see how even the most experienced security professionals can become overwhelmed. Indeed, in the UK alone, there are an estimated six million CCTV cameras, with around one in 70 publicly owned. A human, or team of humans, cannot possibly be expected to keep on top of every single one of those devices without missing something. Monitoring multiple locations Recently, the UK's Centre for the Protection of National Infrastructure (CPNI), now part of the National Protective Security Authority (NPSA), uncovered a challenge faced by many security operators known as the vigilance decrement, where concentration can begin to decline after just 20 to 30 minutes of continuous monitoring. A study of 42 professional CCTV operators, published in Applied Ergonomics, found that they detected only around half of the target behaviours during a 90-minute video review task. For security teams working long shifts and monitoring multiple locations, this presents a significant challenge. Missing an incident can have serious consequences, yet expecting operators to maintain the same level of concentration throughout an entire shift simply isn't realistic. Identifying unusual activity The result is that operators spend less time reviewing routine activity, have faster responses to threats This is where AI-powered video analytics makes a huge difference. By automatically identifying unusual activity, filtering out unnecessary alerts, and highlighting events that require attention, AI can help operators work more effectively and focus on what matters most. The result is that operators spend less time reviewing routine activity, have faster responses to potential threats, and there are more opportunities for security professionals to apply their experience and judgement where it's needed. Breaking the cycle of alarm fatigue Traditional video surveillance systems have often relied on motion detection and basic rules to identify potential security incidents. While useful, these technologies can also generate large volumes of unnecessary alerts. A tree branch moving in the wind, an animal crossing a perimeter, or a delivery vehicle stopping near a building can all trigger a false alarm. Now imagine this happening across hundreds of cameras, throughout an eight- or twelve-hour shift. Operators can quickly find themselves dealing with a seemingly endless queue of notifications, most of which turn out to be harmless. Over time, this can lead to alarm fatigue. When operators are repeatedly presented with false alarms, they may become less responsive to new notifications, increasing the risk of a genuine threat being overlooked. This isn't a reflection of their professionalism or experience, but a natural response to information overload. Persistent alarm fatigue It can also make it harder for organizations to demonstrate the value of their security investments The consequences extend beyond missed incidents. Persistent alarm fatigue can contribute to stress and burnout, slow response times, and place additional pressure on security teams that may already be stretched. It can also make it harder for organizations to demonstrate the value of their security investments. Simply adding more cameras, hiring more operators, or increasing training isn't necessarily the answer. Instead, organizations need to consider how technology can reduce the volume of information operators must process and ensure that the alerts reaching them are genuinely useful. Smarter alerts, faster responses AI-powered video analytics is helping to address this challenge by making surveillance systems more intelligent and proactive. Rather than simply detecting movement, modern analytics can identify objects, recognize patterns and provide greater context around what's happening within a camera's field of view. For example, a traditional system might generate an alert every time something moves near a perimeter fence. AI analytics can help distinguish between an animal passing through, an authorized vehicle following its usual route, and someone loitering near a restricted entrance. Operators can then focus on the activity that warrants further investigation, rather than spending valuable time reviewing harmless events. Providing relevant information The system identifies potential concerns and provides relevant information Advances in vision-language models are taking this a step further. These technologies can interpret and describe activity within video footage, helping operators understand what's happening without having to manually review every camera feed. This shift is gaining momentum across the industry. The Security Industry Association's 2026 Security Megatrends report identifies the automation of security operations centres as a leading trend, highlighting opportunities for AI to support activities such as incident reporting and filtering lower-priority alarms. Importantly, the aim isn't to remove operators from the process. Much of this technology takes an agentive AI approach, where AI assists human decision-making rather than acting independently. The system identifies potential concerns and provides relevant information, while operators remain responsible for assessing situations and deciding how to respond. For security teams, this creates an opportunity to improve situational awareness while reducing the pressure of constant monitoring. Identifying threats before they escalate One of the most valuable capabilities of advanced video analytics is its ability to identify unusual behavior and patterns over time. Consider a vehicle driving slowly around a business park. On its own, this might not appear suspicious. However, if the same vehicle returns on three consecutive evenings, stopping near a restricted entrance before leaving, it could indicate someone assessing the site's security arrangements. An operator working a single shift might not notice the connection, particularly if the activity occurs across several days. But AI analytics can help identify recurring patterns and flag them for further investigation. Identifying recurring incidents These capabilities also offer benefits beyond immediate security monitoring The same principle applies to other scenarios. Someone repeatedly approaching a restricted area, a person remaining in an unusual location for an extended period, or a vehicle traveling against the normal flow of traffic could all trigger an alert based on predefined rules or patterns of behavior. With the right information available, security teams can investigate potential threats earlier and respond before an incident escalates. These capabilities also offer benefits beyond immediate security monitoring. Analytics can help organizations identify recurring incidents, understand how spaces are being used and make more informed decisions about patrols, staffing and security resources. For multi-site organizations, this can be particularly valuable, allowing security teams to identify trends across locations rather than treating each incident in isolation. Making investigations faster and more effective AI can also significantly reduce the time required to investigate incidents after they occur. Reviewing hours of recorded CCTV footage has traditionally been a painstaking process. Investigators may need to search through multiple camera feeds to identify a person, vehicle, or sequence of events, often under considerable time pressure. Advanced video search and synopsis technologies can simplify this process by condensing lengthy recordings into a much shorter visual summary. Events and objects captured at different times can be presented together, allowing investigators to identify relevant activity quickly while retaining links to the original footage and timestamps. For example, an investigator looking for a particular vehicle can search footage based on characteristics such as color, type, or direction of travel, rather than watching hours of recordings manually. For police forces, local authorities and private security teams, these capabilities can make a substantial difference to investigations, reducing the time spent searching through footage and helping important evidence reach the right people sooner. Demonstrating the value of intelligent video AI-powered video analytics can also deliver a measurable return on investment Alongside the operational benefits, AI-powered video analytics can also deliver a measurable return on investment. An Omdia survey of 140 end users across North America and Europe found that more than 85% of organizations achieved a return on investment from their video analytics deployments within one year. More than half reported seeing returns within the first six months, with banking and manufacturing reporting particularly strong results at 95% and 90%, respectively. Evidently, intelligent video can deliver value far beyond traditional surveillance. Improved incident detection Reducing false alarms can help operators use their time more effectively, while faster investigations can lower the resources required to review footage. Improved incident detection and response can also help organizations minimize disruption, protect assets and strengthen their overall security posture. There are benefits for installers and integrators too. By introducing advanced analytics into existing video management systems, they can help customers get more value from their security infrastructure, while offering additional capabilities that can evolve alongside operational needs. Rather than viewing video surveillance solely as a cost centre, organizations can increasingly use the intelligence it provides to improve security performance and inform wider operational decisions. Keeping people at the heart of security As AI becomes more capable, questions around human oversight and decision-making will become increasingly important. There is a distinction between AI that supports operators and fully autonomous systems that can independently make decisions and take action. While more agentic AI capabilities are emerging, many of the most practical applications in video security today are designed to assist people, not replace them. Making informed decisions This combination of machine intelligence and human experience is where the greatest value lies For instance, AI might identify a person behaving unusually near a restricted entrance, but an operator can assess the wider context, determine whether there is a genuine threat and decide on the appropriate response. Similarly, analytics can highlight a vehicle that has repeatedly visited a site, but it takes human judgement to establish whether that behavior is suspicious or entirely legitimate. This combination of machine intelligence and human experience is where the greatest value lies. AI can continuously analyze large volumes of footage, identify patterns across different cameras and shifts, and highlight events that deserve attention. Operators bring the contextual understanding, professional judgement and accountability needed to make informed decisions. An operator reviewing five relevant alerts, each supported by useful information, is in a much better position to respond effectively than someone attempting to process 50 notifications with little context. The goal is therefore not to automate every aspect of security, but to create a more effective partnership between people and technology. A smarter approach to security operations The demands placed on security teams are unlikely to decrease. Organizations are managing larger sites, more cameras and increasingly complex security environments, often without equivalent increases in staffing or resources. At the same time, the limitations of human attention remain unchanged. No matter how experienced or well-trained an operator may be, maintaining constant concentration across dozens of video feeds is an unrealistic expectation. AI-powered video analytics offers a way forward. By reducing unnecessary alerts, identifying suspicious patterns, and accelerating investigations, these technologies can help security teams become more proactive, efficient, and effective. Most importantly, they allow operators to concentrate on what they do best: understanding situations, making informed decisions and protecting people and places. The future of security isn't about replacing the people behind the screens. It's about giving them the intelligence and tools they need to do their jobs better.

The eagerness to adopt AI in physical security is increasing as teams want to implement technology solutions for faster, smarter operations. At the same time, the conversations surrounding AI have changed. The focus now includes not only efficiency gains but also concerns about accountability and trust. According to the Genetec 2026 State of Physical Security report, AI ranked alongside access control and video surveillance as a key priority. However, approximately 40% of the over 7,000 physical security leaders surveyed expressed concern about how AI systems use their data. The potential for malicious purposes followed close behind at 36%. You may recognize this tension in your own organization. There is an expectation that AI can help operations and an understanding that AI entails risks. Balancing the two includes careful deployment and policies. Higher stakes demand a higher standard AI can quickly spot the difference and elevate the event to the security team Most AI applications in physical security revolve around automation. Basic examples include triggering events, filtering and classifying alarms, and enabling faster searches across video and event data. These applications tackle the persistent security challenges of too much noise and too little context. AI takes on some of the lifting, cutting the false positives that overwhelm operators and adding context to the events that remain. For example, someone loitering near an entrance may not be a notable event. While someone loitering and trying door handles is a priority. AI can quickly spot the difference and elevate the event to the security team. From there, the human operator can confirm the issue and next steps. AI narrows the operator's focus rather than replacing their judgment. Higher standard of supervision While these uses improve operator efficiency, they need to be implemented responsibly. Irresponsible AI usage in physical security is more than a simple inconvenience. The outputs affect safety and security. AI applications within physical security demand a higher standard of supervision. This oversight is often referred to as “human in the loop,” but perhaps a better phrase is "expert in the loop." The person validating an output needs the knowledge to question it, contextualise it, and overrule it if needed. How to deploy responsible AI Deploying responsible AI starts by defining where AI can add value to your specific organization Deploying responsible AI starts by defining where AI can add value to your specific organization. AI works best as a tool with a defined job. What is the problem that needs to be solved? What challenges are holding back the team? Start by identifying the problems, then work backward to a solution. Otherwise, you may be implementing technology that doesn’t fully meet your needs. Next, define parameters around AI usage within your team. Document exactly what AI is permitted to do and not allowed to do within your operations. Information should include which use cases you've approved, what data the system can access, and how issues escalate. By defining these elements, your team has clear guidelines on when AI tools are part of your security procedures and for what purposes. Cross-functional monthly meetings Because AI can behave unpredictably, it’s good to prepare for when something does go wrong. Even a well-built model will eventually drift from its thresholds. This is where governance comes in. Governance is what keeps responsible AI holding up over time. It sets the review cycles that catch an issue before an incident does. Governance related to AI entails data privacy, liability, and regulation. Input from legal, compliance, cybersecurity, and IT teams is important. Getting these groups together starts with something as simple as cross-functional monthly meetings to review use cases and emerging challenges. Consider also working with other manufacturers, integrators, and end users across your ecosystem. In doing so, you create shared standards that make issues diagnosable. Responsible AI as a practice, not a project The goal is to protect individual rights and build trust without hampering technological advancement Responsible AI usage in security is not a box to check or a project to complete. It's an ongoing practice, especially as the compliance bar rises. As more AI security risks surface, governments are drafting legislation to regulate how organizations can develop and implement AI-enabled technology. The goal is to protect individual rights and build trust without hampering technological advancement. Identified risk category For example, the 2024 AI Act in the European Union (EU) sets obligations for various AI applications based on their identified risk category. These requirements include creating adequate risk assessments and mitigation practices, using high-quality training datasets to reduce bias, and sharing detailed documentation on models with governing authorities as needed. In the US, multiple states have implemented legislation on AI use, and national legislation has been discussed. Organizations can begin by implementing documented processes for guidelines and governance: Conduct risk assessments: Evaluate how automating a specific process may impact critical systems or safety protocols Identify non-critical applications: Start by implementing AI into processes that aren’t central to your most critical operations to curb major business disruptions Prioritise human-centred design: Ensure that AI applications always empower humans with the information they need to make the best decisions Design for explainability: Ensure AI decisions can be explained and traced, so the expert in the loop can question, verify, or overrule them when needed. Broaden data protection strategies: Apply cybersecurity measures and best practices to AI-enabled solutions, including regular audits and system updates Choose trusted vendors: Work with vendors who follow responsible AI principles, considering biases, data protection, and cybersecurity Core pillar of physical security The industry is slowly converging on shared standards for AI governance. This is good news for early adopters who wish to shape the industry rather than react to it. The potential applications of AI in security are exciting. But as this technology evolves, so do the risks. Strong governance builds trust, a core pillar of physical security. Responsible AI protects that trust and earns more of it. Start by defining your outcomes, building guardrails, and creating accountability structures to support your organization’s responsible use of AI technology.

For years, innovation in physical security has focused on what systems can do: higher-resolution cameras, AI-driven analytics, smarter access control, and cloud-based management. But across deployments, from residential systems to enterprise campuses, a more fundamental issue continues to undermine performance: Connectivity. It is increasingly clear that the effectiveness of modern security systems is not limited by sensors or software, but by the reliability, reach, and architecture of the networks that connect them. As security systems evolve toward real-time detection, automated response, and distributed intelligence, connectivity is no longer a supporting layer. It is the foundation and, too often, the weakest link. When security design is constrained by connectivity In theory, security systems are designed to maximize visibility, coverage, and response time. In practice, they are often designed around the limitations of network infrastructure. Nowhere is this more visible than in video surveillance. Cameras are frequently positioned not where risk is highest, but where connectivity is available. Dead zones in garages, basements, or perimeter edges force compromises in placement, reducing the effectiveness of the system. In some real-world deployments, traditional Wi-Fi has been shown to fail at a meaningful percentage of intended installation points, particularly in challenging environments or at the edges of coverage. This creates a disconnect between security intent and system reality. Instead of enabling proactive deterrence, such as detecting activity at the perimeter, systems are often relegated to recording events after they occur. The same pattern appears in access control. Many deployments rely on fragmented connectivity stacks, combinations of wired links, proprietary wireless protocols, and gateways, each optimized for a specific constraint such as range or power. While functional, these architectures introduce complexity, increase deployment costs, and create additional points of failure. Over time, these workarounds have become normalized. But as systems scale and expectations rise, their limitations are becoming harder to ignore. The hidden cost of fragmentation The consequences of unreliable or overly complex connectivity extend beyond performance. They impact the entire lifecycle of a security system. Advanced security features need consistent, reliable connectivity—not just bandwidthFor integrators, poor connectivity can mean longer installation times, more troubleshooting, and increased reliance on workarounds such as mesh networks or additional infrastructure. For vendors, it can translate into higher product return rates, increased support costs, and reduced customer satisfaction. For end users, the impact is more direct: systems that fail to connect reliably are systems that fail to deliver security. This is particularly critical as security solutions move toward more advanced use cases, including real-time alerts, remote management, and edge-based analytics. These capabilities depend not just on bandwidth, but on consistent, predictable connectivity across the entire deployment environment. Why traditional approaches are reaching their limits The industry has historically relied on a mix of connectivity options, each with its own strengths and tradeoffs. Wired infrastructure, such as Ethernet and PoE, offers reliability and performance but comes with higher installation costs and limited flexibility, particularly in large or distributed environments. Conventional Wi-Fi provides high throughput and seamless integration with IP networks but is optimized for short-range indoor use, where walls, distance, and interference can quickly degrade performance. Low-Power Wide-Area Networks (LPWAN) and cellular solutions extend range and coverage but often sacrifice throughput, increase latency, or introduce recurring operational costs. To compensate, many systems combine multiple technologies—layering gateways, protocol translation, and mesh architectures to bridge gaps. While effective in the short term, this approach increases system complexity and reduces long-term scalability. A shift toward simpler, more unified architectures In response, the industry is beginning to rethink connectivity, not as a patchwork of solutions, but as a unified foundation for modern security systems. The goal is straightforward: deliver long-range, reliable, and secure connectivity without adding architectural complexity. An example of this shift: Extending Wi-Fi beyond traditional limits One example of this shift can be seen in emerging Wi-Fi technologies designed specifically for long-range, low-power environments. Rather than replacing existing wireless approaches, these solutions aim to extend the familiar Wi-Fi model into new deployment scenarios where traditional networks struggle. Wi-Fi HaLow, based on the IEEE 802.11ah standard, is one such approach. Operating in sub-GHz spectrum, it enables significantly greater range and signal penetration compared to conventional 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz Wi-Fi, while maintaining native IP networking and established security frameworks. Wi-Fi trends reduce fragmentation and support data-heavy security systemsIn practical terms, this allows security devices, such as cameras and access control systems, to connect reliably across large properties, multi-building campuses, and outdoor environments without requiring dense access-point deployments or complex mesh configurations. It also supports higher data rates than many low-power wide-area technologies, enabling capabilities such as over-the-air updates, diagnostics, and increasingly, edge-based intelligence. At the same time, no single connectivity approach is universally optimal. Cellular remains essential for mobility, while LPWAN technologies continue to serve ultra-low-power sensing applications. Emerging Wi-Fi-based approaches highlight a broader industry direction: reducing fragmentation while supporting more demanding, data-rich security systems. From coverage to deterrence: A new security model One of the most significant implications of improved connectivity is the ability to rethink how security systems are deployed in the first place. Historically, limitations in wireless performance have pushed devices inward, closer to access points, inside buildings, and away from the perimeter. As a result, many systems are optimized for detection after the fact, rather than prevention at the edge. With more reliable long-range connectivity, this model begins to shift. Cameras and sensors can be placed where they are most effective—at entry points, along property boundaries, and in previously hard-to-reach areas. Combined with edge-based analytics, this enables earlier detection, faster response, and more effective deterrence. In this context, connectivity is not just an enabler of performance, it is a driver of fundamentally different security outcomes. Designing for the next generation of security systems As the industry moves forward, organizations deploying security systems should reassess how connectivity is factored into system design. Several principles are emerging: Prioritize reliability over peak performance Design for the perimeter, not just the interior Reduce architectural complexity Validate real-world performance, not just lab specifications The next wave of innovation in security will not be defined solely by smarter devices or more advanced analytics. It will be defined by whether those systems can connect, reliably, consistently, and at scale. Connectivity has long been treated as an invisible layer in security architecture. Today, it is becoming clear that it deserves far greater attention. As the industry rethinks its approach, one thing is certain: solving the connectivity challenge is not just a technical upgrade. It is a prerequisite for delivering on the full promise of modern security systems.

Combining VIVOTEK’s branded video security business with March Networks paves the way for the combined brands to meet customers’ increasing appetite for integrated solutions rather than individual components. The merger brings VIVOTEK's branded video security business together under one operating structure with March Networks’ enterprise-grade video surveillance, AI analytics, and cloud-managed security solutions. Customers now have access to a broader, more integrated portfolio spanning enterprise video management, advanced cameras, edge artificial intelligence (AI), cloud services, recording platforms, and business intelligence, says Net Payne, Chief Sales & Marketing Officer at March Networks and VIVOTEK. Distinct product strategies Given the combined companies, product development, sales, marketing, and customer support can move in step rather than in parallel. March Networks and VIVOTEK were already both part of the Delta Electronics family, but they previously operated as separate businesses with distinct product strategies, teams, and routes to market. March Networks and VIVOTEK announced the merger of their branded video security businesses last spring following Delta Electronics' acquisition of remaining VIVOTEK shares. “Aligning our complementary capabilities lets us innovate faster, simplify engagement, and respond more quickly to a market moving toward AI, cloud and intelligent video,” says Payne. This merger reflects a broader shift across the physical security industry, adds Payne. “Customers no longer see video purely as a tool for reviewing incidents after the fact,” he says. “They expect it to help identify risks earlier, simplify investigations, improve operations, and support better decisions across the organization.” Cloud video management Meeting customer expectations requires more than bolting AI features onto existing systems Meeting customer expectations requires more than bolting AI features onto existing systems. Rather, it requires cameras, edge intelligence, recording, software, cloud services, and business data working together as one coordinated platform. “By bringing March Networks and VIVOTEK together, we combine deep expertise across the full video technology stack while preserving the relationships, sector knowledge and customer focus both companies have built over many years,” says Payne. “Our goal is to make intelligent video more integrated, scalable, and practical for customers and partners worldwide.” Both entities bring strengths to the combined companies. March Networks brings experience in enterprise software, cloud video management and large-scale deployments; while VIVOTEK brings strength in imaging, camera technology and edge intelligence. Together they seek to ensure more choice when designing systems, a clearer path for future expansion, and technologies that work together more effectively without compromising the reliability, cybersecurity, and support customers expect from both companies. Advantages for channel partners Channel partners gain a broader portfolio to address a wider range of customer requirements, combining components as each deployment demands. Channel partners also benefit from expanded geographic reach, deeper technical expertise, and greater investment in training and enablement. “Importantly, this is designed to be a seamless transition,” says Payne. “Partners keep working with the teams and relationships they already know, while gaining access to new capabilities and certification opportunities. Over time, that alignment should make it easier to design, deploy and support complete solutions.” Because they are established and respected brands, March Networks and VIVOTEK branding will continue to be used. Rebranding is not a goal, and neither identity is being replaced by the other. Coordinated decision-making “The immediate priority is organizational alignment by making it easier for customers and partners to benefit from the combined portfolio,” says Payne. Product branding will continue to reflect the relevant portfolio and market context. As product roadmaps become more closely coordinated, customers can expect greater interoperability and a more cohesive experience, says Payne. Any future branding changes will be managed carefully and communicated clearly. Combining the businesses reduces duplication and enables coordinated decision-making across product strategy, engineering, sales, marketing, operations, and customer support. “Instead of developing capabilities independently, teams can share their expertise, align roadmaps, and direct investment to where it has the greatest customer impact,” says Payne. Combining specialized knowledge globally The combined organization operates across six continents and more than 75 countries The combined organization includes more than 300 research and development (R&D) engineers across four Centres of Excellence in Canada, Taiwan, Italy and Poland, thus bringing together a substantial base of specialist knowledge. The unified network also sharpens the ability to prioritise global opportunities, respond to regional needs and bring innovations to market faster. The combined organization operates across six continents and more than 75 countries, supported by more than 1,100 certified channel partners. That footprint provides greater capacity to support multinational customers while staying responsive to local market needs. Looking ahead, future growth will increasingly come from helping customers turn video into useful, actionable intelligence. “The market is moving beyond conventional surveillance toward solutions combining AI, cloud services, edge processing, video management and operational data — and our new structure brings these together as one connected solution rather than several isolated technologies,” says Payne. Broader technical expertise There will also be closer collaboration among specialists in imaging, hardware, software, analytics, and cloud, which is important given how much customer infrastructure, regulatory, and deployment requirements vary. The companies can support cloud, hybrid, and on-premise environments, giving organizations a practical path toward more intelligent video. More choice comes from bringing together complementary technologies across product groups. Greater scale is achieved through a larger engineering organization, broader technical expertise and more capacity to invest in innovation. Challenges for the industry at large Looking to the future for the industry at large, the greatest challenge will be managing the rapid growth of AI Looking to the future for the industry at large, the greatest challenge will be managing the rapid growth of AI responsibly, securely and at scale, says Payne. Video systems will generate more data and automate more decisions, but organizations must be able to trust how that intelligence is created, protected, and applied, he adds. “Cybersecurity, privacy, data sovereignty, system interoperability and AI accuracy are more important than ever,” says Payne. Addressing these elements requires expertise across the entire technology stack: from camera and edge processing to recording, cloud infrastructure, video management and analytics. “Together, March Networks and VIVOTEK can coordinate development across all these layers, giving customers flexible architectures that balance innovation with security, transparency and operational control,” says Payne.

The security landscape is undergoing a profound transformation, as evidenced by the innovations showcased at the ISC West Expo 2026. From dismantling of silos between physical and digital security to the ongoing transition to cloud and hybrid platforms, much of the discussion on the show floor was familiar, if somehow more urgent than ever. Clearly the industry is moving toward unified, cloud-native, and highly automated ecosystems. In a series of deep-dive meetings and demonstrations at the recent show, I got a first-hand glimpse of the future of the physical security marketplace. Spoiler alert: The future is now! HID Global: Tearing down the silos HID Global is addressing the long-requested convergence of physical and digital security. Recognizing that the industry has historically operated in silos, HID is now leading with a combined implementation team to leverage the power of both sides. HID is supporting the transition by combining its logical and physical security teams to help end users design secure, end-to-end journeys for their employees. By leveraging its massive existing footprint in physical access, HID is uniquely positioned to help organizations upgrade their cybersecurity posture without a total "rip and replace" of their hardware. HID is seeing a surge in demand for converged credentials that unite building access with digital identity. On the digital front, HID has implemented FIDO (Fast Identity Online) and passkeys to replace traditional passwords with more secure, biometric-backed authentication methods. Acre Security: Bridging the gap to the cloud Acre Security previewed a cloud-native video solution, reinforcing its cloud-first security strategyAcre Security is currently consolidating brands, bringing established names like Feenics and AccessIt under a single corporate umbrella. A primary theme for the company at ISC West is the migration of legacy systems to modern infrastructure. To facilitate the transition, they are launching "The Bridge," a technology designed to help on-premise customers transition to the cloud at a pace that suits their operational needs. The company is also expanding its portfolio into video. Attendees at the show received a preview of a new cloud-native video solution slated for release later this year, signaling Acre’s commitment to a holistic, cloud-first security suite. Acoem: Real-time acoustic threat detection With a 35-year foundation in vibration and acoustics—including military sniper detection—Acoem is providing gunshot detection through edge processing. Unlike systems that rely on the cloud and may suffer from latency, Acoem’s technology processes data at the sensor level for instant alerts. Their sensors are engineered for massive outdoor spaces, covering a 500-foot radius (roughly 11 football fields) and can detect high-powered rifle shots from up to half a mile away. The system provides critical intelligence by distinguishing between muzzle blasts and "mach noise" from bullet travel, delivering an audio file to the end-user that maps the location and direction of the threat. They use AI to filter out environmental false positives, such as skateboards hitting metal rails. Alarm.com: The all-in-one dealer ecosystem Beyond hardware, Alarm.com is leveraging AI to streamline the sales process Alarm.com is doubling down on "giving tools to dealers to help them be successful," with a focus on unified commercial solutions. A highlight at ISC West is their new fire communicator, which integrates fire monitoring into their single app, completing what they call the "fourth leg of the stool." The product allows fire systems to benefit from the same real-time customer engagement and push notifications that have long been available for intrusion and video. The key products, such as commercial-grade hardware, are now available for immediate purchase. Beyond hardware, Alarm.com is leveraging AI to streamline the sales process. Their new AI Proposal Builder uses customer meeting notes to automatically generate customized, value-driven sales proposals for dealers. Allegion: A global shift in credentialing Following the acquisition of ELATEC, Allegion is adopting a more global market approach and expanding its OEM business. The company is involved in the development of Aliro, the newly unveiled mobile credentialing standard. Allegion’s strategy is built on versatility: While Aliro serves the burgeoning mobile market, they also offer PKOC for plastic cards, allowing them to provide solutions regardless of the user's preferred credential type. The ELATEC acquisition has effectively filled previous gaps in their use-case portfolio, positioning them as a comprehensive provider for both physical and digital access needs. AtlasIED: Engineering for life safety Transitioning from audio to a fully automated threat detection company, AtlasIED showcased its new IPX line at ISC West. This modular platform uses a single PoE++ port to power various "plug-and-play" modules, allowing for easy system upgrades. Their gun detection technology achieves a 99% confidence rating by "stacking" AI models; it cross-references audio data with infrared signatures to detect muzzle flashes and air quality sensors for particulates. With systems already running in 80% of U.S. international airports, the company maintains 24/7 domestic engineering support to manage these "life-safety adjacent" environments. Axis Communications: Unifying connectivity Axis Communications is advancing network video with 4G/5G surveillance, reducing cabling needs Axis Communications continues to lead in network video, with a new focus on offering surveillance through 4G and 5G networks to eliminate the need for extensive cabling in long-range applications. Axis also introduced several specialized hardware pieces, including the P1486-LE global shutter camera for high-speed traffic monitoring and the Q2802-TE, which integrates thermal and visual monitoring into a single unit.  To assist technicians, they launched a new installer app that uses Bluetooth for easier camera pairing and management directly from a mobile device. Axon: De-escalation through enterprise wearables Focusing on frontline safety, Axon is expanding from law enforcement into the enterprise sector with its retail and healthcare-focused body camera. Weighing only 0.25 lb, these cameras are designed to be less intimidating, using colorful designs and acting as a primary de-escalator for aggressive behavior. A clear front display signals when recording is active, striking a balance between safety and a non-intimidating appearance. These devices feature live-streaming and panic alarms that connect workers to a Global Security Operations Center (GSOC). To ensure the footage is legally viable, Axon maintains a rigorous audit trail that authenticates every action recorded. Genetec: The value of the unified platform Genetec is advocating for unified platforms that reduce the time between incident detection and resolution. They argue that AI is becoming a commodity and that the true value lies in unified platforms that reduce the time from incident to resolution. Their approach emphasises the "outcomes" customers need, such as allowing security teams to coalesce around an investigation quickly. Genetec remains a strong supporter of open systems for enterprise customers, ensuring they have the choice to integrate diverse technologies rather than being locked into a manufacturer’s “walled garden.” This flexibility is critical for high-end security environments that require tailored, responsive systems. Johnson Controls: Large-scale enterprise solutions Johnson Controls has made a significant push into the enterprise video market with C-Cure IQ, a standalone VMS designed for major hubs like airports and large campuses. Through a partnership with Scylla, they have integrated 11 advanced analytics—including facial recognition and weapons detection—directly into their cameras. They also showcased new multi-sensor panoramic cameras capable of "stitching" multiple images into a single 360-degree view. While innovating in video, Johnson Controls also confirmed modern upgrades to their intrusion line, including their legacy DSC Neo line. The new DSC PowerSeries Neo 5, a high-end residential and commercial platform, features an all-new user interface and built-in PowerG+. They have also begun shipping the IQ5 family lineup, which is powered by a Qualcomm DragonWing processor.  ONVIF: Standardising the future of AI and cloud ONVIF continues to lead the charge in establishing common languages for the security industry. A major focus is their new "Cloud Profile," which enables cameras to connect directly to the cloud through a standardized protocol. They are also expanding into audio standards to ensure IP-based speakers can seamlessly connect to Video Management Systems (VMS). To combat the rise of sophisticated digital manipulation, ONVIF is developing "video signing" standards. ONVIF is actively seeking more diverse enterprise participation to help shape these emerging AI standardsThis feature protects the integrity of video for evidentiary purposes by embedding a digital signature and timestamp directly into the footage at the camera level. Additionally, the organization has formed an AI Working Group to develop common communication methods for "AI agents" within physical security systems. ONVIF is actively seeking more diverse enterprise participation to help shape these emerging AI standards. Roberto Licari is the new ONVIF Ambassador, seeking to attract new companies (even outside the security sector) to ONVIF as they look to expand their offerings. SwiftConnect: Bridging digital and physical identity SwiftConnect is redefining access control by shifting the focus from physical cards to digital identity. As a cloud-based "connected access network," the platform bridges the gap between IT identity providers (like Okta or Azure AD) and legacy physical access control systems. At the show's Security Experience Center demonstrations, SwiftConnect showcased its ability to integrate mobile credentials within Apple and Google Wallets across multiple technology platforms. By aligning physical security with Zero Trust principles, they ensure that access is governed by the same rigorous standards as digital networks. Their software-centric approach allows for a more seamless employee experience while simplifying the management of complex, multi-site building security. This emphasises a future where the mobile device becomes the primary tool for navigating the physical workspace. Wasabi Technologies: Redefining cloud storage economics With cloud technology becoming a baseline requirement at every booth, Wasabi Technologies highlighted its "hot cloud storage" as a cost-effective alternative to major hyperscalers. Their model claims to be 80% less expensive than competitors, notably removing hidden fees. Wasabi is increasingly bundled at the "back end" of security solutions through partnerships with integrators and end users. A key feature for law enforcement and high-security sectors is their "Object Lock" capability, which ensures that video evidence remains untampered with and immutable during defined retention periods. By providing high-performance storage without the unpredictable costs typically associated with the cloud, Wasabi is positioning itself as the foundational layer for data-heavy video surveillance applications that require long-term, secure retention. Wasabi is positioning itself as the foundational layer for data-heavy video surveillance applications ZKTeco USA: Versatile and integrated access ZKTeco USA showcased a range of integrated solutions, including turnstiles, visitor management, and access control. Their Atlas access control series offers versatility, supporting everything from traditional readers and keypads to QR codes and fingerprint scanning, with the flexibility to operate on-premise or in the cloud. For tight environments, they introduced the Mars 100 turnstile, which features a compact 2x3-foot footprint. They also highlighted the Omni series, an all-in-one standalone reader-controller that manages access, intercom, and visitor functions in a single device. Innovation in portability was evident in their new walk-through metal detectors, which consist of two poles with an 8-hour battery life—ideal for schools and temporary events. While they offer their own Armatura readers, ZKTeco emphasized that their solutions can integrate with other industry leaders to fit diverse customer needs.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) had a major presence at the ISC West 2026 show in Las Vegas. Almost every booth offered some variation on AI and how intelligence is transforming the physical security industry. Several industry leaders led the way, showcasing how they are tackling complex security challenges with smarter, more efficient solutions. Obviously, the security industry will never be the same. Milestone Systems: Responsible AI and open platforms Milestone has declared 2026 the "year of delivery” on previously announced developments and enhancements. A standout feature is their new natural language AI search, which is being integrated across XProtect, Arcules, and Briefcam platforms to simplify how users interact with vast amounts of video data. A core pillar of their strategy is responsible AI development, which prioritises using licensed data over "scraped" data. They have introduced new anonymisation tools that protect privacy by replacing faces with AI-generated characteristics like hair color while keeping the person unrecognisable. Furthermore, Milestone is moving workloads to Linux to reduce costs, transitioning toward an app marketplace, and has partnered with NVIDIA for the "Hafnia" project to ensure high-quality data to train AI models. Ambarella: Powering the edge with AI chips With their presence at ISC West in a meeting room near the trade show floor, Ambarella is the "engine" behind many high-performance intelligent video products, specializing in low-power AI chips like the N1 and CV7 families. Their technology is moving beyond cameras, where they provide systems-on-chips [SOCs] to many manufacturers. They have expanded into "AI boxes" that can process 64+ video channels simultaneously. A standout feature is the Natural Language technology, which allows users to search for specific objects or abstract scenes using simple prompts. To address modern security concerns, Ambarella has implemented "agentic" programming for a no-code development of automated workflows and media signing to combat AI-generated deepfakes by verifying video integrity through metadata. Motorola Solutions: Simplifying intelligence Motorola Solutions shows physical security evolving into a real-time enterprise intelligence layerMotorola Solutions is prioritising user accessibility by integrating natural language processing into its system configuration. Motorola's portfolio demonstrates how physical security technology is evolving into a real-time operational intelligence layer across the enterprise. Instead of requiring custom coding, operators can now use simple commands—like asking the system to "show me when someone fell down"—to set up advanced analytics and search parameters. The company is also deploying AI agents designed to aggregate data and automatically flag safety or compliance risks, such as perimeter breaches or blocked fire exits. To ensure maximum utility of the hardware, Motorola Solutions’ system can ingest massive, complex physical manuals and automatically generate monitoring rules based on those standard operating procedures. Furthermore, Motorola is focusing on interoperability, using industry-standard interfaces to ingest data from various hardware brands and networks. This approach aims to provide operators with clear, recommended next steps during critical events, streamlining the decision-making process in high-pressure environments. i-PRO: Putting generative AI at the edge i-PRO is bringing generative AI directly to the edge with a new fisheye camera, which processes complex analytics locally rather than relying solely on the cloud. These cameras, on display at ISC West, have moved beyond simple attribute-based tracking to identify complex behaviors like aggression, fighting, and slip-and-fall incidents. By running on the latest Ambarella chips, i-PRO cameras can use generative AI to improve image quality and analyze scenes in real-time without external processing. This focus on edge-based intelligence ensures high-performance analytics are available even in environments where constant cloud connectivity might be a challenge. Brivo: The rise of agentic AI Eagle Eye Video Assistant (EEVA) acts as a natural language AI agent that can monitor for specific threats Brivo and Eagle Eye Networks have officially unified under the Brivo name, focusing on streamlining the experience for large integrators. They are pioneers in agentic AI, introducing features that allow users to talk to their mobile apps to initiate lockdowns or add users. Their Eagle Eye Video Assistant (EEVA) acts as a natural language AI agent that can monitor for specific threats, such as a brandished weapon or a specific vehicle, and automatically trigger access control responses. By treating access and video as a unified system, Brivo enables users to connect specific video skills—like detecting a red car or a brandished weapon—to automated access control actions. They are also using AI to achieve "zero-cost integration," linking disparate cloud systems using AI-generated instructions. Everon: Emphasis on video monitoring Everon is making a massive investment in active video monitoring, using AI-driven systems to deter crime even before it happens. “The market is ripe for it, and customers are demanding it,” says David Charney, Everon’s Sr. Vice President, Video Command Center. Employing virtual guards who can use voice commands, lights, and horns to "shoo away" unauthorized individuals. The company has implemented senior-level leadership that has facilitated more than 5,000 video-based apprehensions. Everon, specializing in integrated systems for multi-site businesses, uses a rigorous selection process to choose AI providers that can accurately filter alerts for specific applications, such as identifying when a fire door is blocked. As a "trusted advisor" to their 300,000 customers, the company focuses on delivering professional-level results that move beyond basic recording to proactive threat mitigation. Hanwha: New hybrid VMS combines cloud and on-prem Hanwha Vision highlighted the official public launch of Blaze, a hybrid video management system (VMS). The platform uses a hybrid architecture to manage on-premise and cloud-connected devices across multiple sites without complex port forwarding. Blaze features native AI capabilities, including semantic search that allows operators to find specific incidents using natural language queries, such as "person with a safety jacket." The AI security platform lets teams search surveillance footage the way they search Google. AI similarity detection allows operators to quickly trace a person’s movement and investigate incidents faster (useful in active shooter behavior, medical emergencies, or crowd panic scenarios, and more). The system also provides a "histogram" view of traffic patterns to help security professionals quickly identify anomalies in historical footage. OpenEye: Operational intelligence and shift to OpEx OpenEye unveiled AI-powered features such as visual chat and scene analysisOpenEye is redefining video surveillance by moving intelligence from the camera level to the cloud, significantly reducing the need for on-site server management. At ISC West, OpenEye introduced new AI-driven tools like visual chat and scene analysis. Beyond security, these tools provide valuable operational alerts, such as identifying overflowing dumpsters, dirty tables in restaurants, or vehicles blocking dock doors. The system also utilizes natural language for search, allowing users to find specific attributes like "people wearing backpacks" within designated timeframes. OpenEye also highlighted an industry-wide shift toward operational expenditures (OpEx) billing models, as users increasingly prefer predictable monthly or yearly payments over large upfront capital expenditures (CapEx). This model aligns with their channel-based operations, meeting customers where they currently operate without the burden of high fees. IQSIGHT: New name, same mission for Bosch video Formerly Bosch Video, the newly named IQSIGHT seeks to maintain the “Bosch pedigree” under the new name. It’s the same engineering, manufacturing, etc. IQSIGHT also pledges to be "easier to do business with" by improving user interfaces and end-to-end user experiences. Despite the transition, the company has increased their pace of innovation and reinforced the open systems philosophy with enhanced integrations with Milestone, Genetec, and others. The major product release at the show is IVA Pro Context, which uses generative AI to provide human-level scene understanding. Through a partnership with Laelaps AI, a robotics startup, IQSIGHT is exploring autonomous dispatch and response. When a camera identifies a scene, it triggers a robot to provide a tailored response. Commercialisation is expected in 12 to 18 months. Verkada: How their system can solve a crime But how does AI operate in the real world? Verkada had a “themed” exhibit demonstrating how their system could solve a hypothetical theft at the Louvre museum in Paris. The exhibit took attendees through and showed how Verkada technologies (e.g., license plate recognition and search capabilities) could provide fast results to solve the crime. AI-powered tools, like their newest unified timeline, demonstrate value in the real world of investigations.

Genetec Inc., the pioneer in enterprise physical security software, announces that Newark Central School District (NCSD) in New York has expanded its deployment of Genetec Security Center across seven buildings. The district has connected video surveillance, access control, emergency communications, and sensors to help staff assess incidents and coordinate their response. NCSD serves approximately 1,800 students and nearly 600 staff. Its security environment had grown over time, and administrators were managing several technologies separately. The district needed a clearer view of activity across its buildings and a more coordinated way to respond when incidents occurred. Managing several technologies “It was a multi-year project, but we can confidently say it was worth it. With the help of Convergint and Genetec, we’ve improved our processes and have a clearer picture of what’s happening across our district,” said Mike Ishler, Co-Director of Technology at NCSD. “Our students and staff feel safer, and our community has greater confidence in what we’re doing to keep it that way.” Working with Convergint, NCSD expanded its existing Security Center deployment to connect video surveillance, access control, emergency communications, and other sensors through a single platform. By retaining its existing camera infrastructure and deploying upgrades in phases, the district was able to enhance its security capabilities while managing costs. Existing camera infrastructure Today, NCSD manages more than 400 cameras, 200 doors, 500 cardholders, 30 vape sensors, and several automatic license plate recognition (ALPR) cameras through Security Center. By bringing these technologies into one platform, the district has improved security operations in several key areas: Faster incident response: Automated alerts provide designated personnel with linked video to quickly assess incidents, while centralized monitoring and lockdown procedures help coordinate emergency response. Simplified access management: Integration with Microsoft Active Directory automatically assigns building access based on employee roles, reducing manual tasks and keeping permissions up to date. Reduced vaping incidents: When a vape sensor is triggered, Security Center bookmarks the event and notifies school administrators and the school resource officer for further investigation. Vaping incidents decreased by approximately 93%. Security Center’s open architecture gives NCSD the flexibility to introduce additional technologies as its needs change. Through an ongoing service agreement with Convergint, the district has access to remote support, maintenance, and on-site help when needed.

OpenEye Web Services modernizes security systems for multi-use facilities like Salem Covenant Church with remote monitoring, access control, and real-time alerts. OpenEye Web Services (OWS) offers an innovative and intelligent security solution tailored for multi-use facilities like Salem Covenant Church in Worcester, Massachusetts. By implementing OWS, the church significantly enhanced the efficiency of its security system, allowing for seamless access control and remote monitoring. The OWS platform has successfully replaced the outdated, time-consuming process of managing keycards, ensuring a safer and more welcoming environment for the church community. Intelligent security solution Key Benefits of OWS: Streamlined access control Remote monitoring capabilities Easy integration with existing systems Real-time alerts Customizable access levels OWS offers a comprehensive security solution that caters to the unique needs of multi-use facilities. With features like real-time alerts and customisable access levels, OWS enables organizations to adapt their security measures to meet their specific requirements. In the case of Salem Covenant Church, OWS has allowed the staff to focus on their core mission of serving the community, knowing that their security system is reliable and efficient.

Gonzaga University enhanced its campus security with OpenEye Web Services (OWS), providing a safer environment for students, faculty, and staff. Learn about the benefits of using OWS for school campuses, including scalability, remote access, simplified video management, high-definition cameras, and secure, reliable systems. Gonzaga University, located in Spokane, Washington, is home to a diverse community of students, faculty, and staff. With over 7,800 students enrolled and a sprawling 152-acre campus, ensuring the safety and security of everyone on campus is a top priority. The university’s security needs are complex, with a focus on maintaining a secure environment, preventing incidents, and providing quick and effective responses when necessary. Reducing maintenance costs To achieve these objectives, Gonzaga University turned to OpenEye to utilize powerful cloud-managed video surveillance, with benefits including: Scalability: Seamless integration with Gonzaga’s existing infrastructure and easy expansion as the University’s needs change. Remote Access: Real-time monitoring of multiple locations across campus, leading to faster response times. Simplified Video Management: Cloud-based platform streamlines video management and reduces maintenance costs.

Bargain Hunt successfully consolidated their security system by selecting Alarm.com for intrusion and access control, and OpenEye Web Services (OWS) for commercial video surveillance. Bargain Hunt is a retail discount store that carries overstock and returned brand-name merchandise at deeply discounted prices. The retail chain operates 85 stores within a 400 mile radius of Nashville, Tennessee. Legacy security systems Bargain Hunt experienced rapid growth in recent years, increasing from 30 to over 80 retail locations and 2 distribution centers. As a result, they acquired numerous legacy security systems that were complex and required specialized training. As their retail footprint grew, Bargain Hunt needed a security and loss prevention solution that would allow their Loss Prevention team to easily monitor theft and safety in stores and distribution centers. Learn how OpenEye allowed them to bring their locations together in a single, centralized portal to standardize security and strengthen loss prevention efforts.

Critical national infrastructure encompasses sectors such as energy, utilities, healthcare, and data centers – environments that underpin economic stability and public safety. With so much at stake, the importance of effective security systems is that much higher. We asked our Expert Panel Roundtable: What are the unique aspects of the critical infrastructure market, and how should the security industry adapt?

Adequate video surveillance coverage depends entirely on a facility's layout, square footage, and security goals. Historically, better coverage required more cameras, but technology innovations are changing those expectations and undermining previously held rules of thumb. We asked our Expert Panel Roundtable: Do today's video systems generally require more cameras or fewer cameras, and why?

Installing physical security systems requires integrating diverse technologies (e.g., cameras, access control, alarms) that often use different protocols and must be adapted to a building's unique physical layout and legacy infrastructure.  Specialized technical expertise is required for seamless networking and proper configuration. Hopefully, no important factors are overlooked in the installation process. We asked our Expert Panel Roundtable: What is the most overlooked factor when installing physical security systems?