Technology Archives - Security Buyer Magazine

Perimeter Protection: Balancing Physical and Technology

Exclusives, Industry Sectors, Technology / Rebecca Morpeth-Spayne

Joseph Clarke, Assistant Editor advocates for a hybrid approach to balancing physical and technological barriers in perimeter security for resilience against evolving threats Perimeter security stands as the first line of defence for critical infrastructure, industrial facilities, and high-value sites. From airports to power plants, the perimeter is not just a physical boundary but a symbol of resilience against potential intrusions. Wide-scale complexes, such as oil refineries, power grids, and transportation hubs, face a myriad of threats—ranging from physical breaches to cyber-physical attacks. Intruders may attempt to cut through fencing, evade detection systems, or exploit human error, while more sophisticated adversaries could deploy drones, disable systems remotely, or launch coordinated attacks. Each type of facility comes with its unique challenges. For instance, oil and gas sites often span vast, remote areas, making it difficult to monitor every point of access. At airports, the sheer volume of daily traffic introduces additional complexities, requiring systems that can differentiate between authorised personnel, passengers, and potential threats. Meanwhile, power stations face the dual challenge of protecting their physical infrastructure and safeguarding against cyberattacks that could disrupt services. Historically, this role has been filled by physical barriers such as fences, gates, and bollards, which offer tried-and-true deterrents. However, as threats evolve and become more sophisticated, these static solutions alone are no longer sufficient. Technological advancements in detection systems, thermal imaging, and radar have introduced dynamic capabilities, but they too are not without limitations. This evolving landscape demands a rethinking of perimeter security strategies, moving beyond reliance on either traditional physical barriers or advanced technology. Instead, a hybrid approach that leverages the strengths of both offers the most comprehensive solution. By exploring the capabilities and limitations of each, and examining the contributions of key players in the industry, this article argues for a balanced strategy that adapts to modern threats while maintaining cost-effectiveness and operational practicality. The Strengths and Limitations of Physical Barriers Physical barriers have long been the backbone of perimeter security, offering a tangible deterrent to would-be intruders. Industrial fencing, for example, provides a clear boundary while delaying unauthorised access. Products like those from A-1 Fence cater to large-scale complexes such as industrial sites, where robust, corrosion-resistant materials can withstand environmental wear and tear. Similarly, Hill & Smith Infrastructure offers bollards and crash-rated gates designed to prevent vehicular access, providing critical protection for facilities at risk of ramming attacks. These solutions excel in their simplicity and reliability. Fences don’t require a power source, and bollards aren’t vulnerable to cyberattacks. For many organisations, these attributes make physical barriers an attractive choice. However, they are inherently static and reactive. While they can delay intrusions, they cannot identify or track intruders, nor can they adapt to changing conditions or new threats. This static nature can become a liability in environments where threats are dynamic, such as airports or border crossings. Physical barriers can also be bypassed if an attacker has sufficient time, tools, or insider knowledge. Thus, while they remain an essential component of any perimeter security strategy, relying solely on them creates significant vulnerabilities. The Rise of Technological Solutions Technological advancements have introduced dynamic capabilities to perimeter security, enabling organisations to detect, track, and respond to threats in real time. Solutions such as radar systems, thermal imaging cameras, and smart sensors have revolutionised how facilities monitor their perimeters. For instance, Thermal Radar offers 360-degree detection systems that provide real-time alerts for intrusions, even in complete darkness or adverse weather conditions. These systems can cover vast areas with minimal human oversight, making them invaluable for facilities like oil refineries or solar farms. Similarly, Teledyne FLIR‘s thermal imaging cameras excel in detecting heat signatures, allowing operators to identify potential threats concealed by foliage or low visibility. The adaptability of these technologies is a significant advantage. Unlike physical barriers, which remain fixed, technological solutions can be recalibrated or upgraded to meet evolving security needs. They also integrate seamlessly with other systems, such as video analytics platforms or access control systems, creating a cohesive security ecosystem. However, technology is not without its drawbacks. Cybersecurity vulnerabilities pose a significant risk, as attackers can potentially disable or manipulate systems remotely. Moreover, these systems are often reliant on power and network infrastructure, making them susceptible to failures during critical moments. Maintenance costs and the need for skilled operators further complicate their deployment, particularly for organisations with limited resources….. To read the full feature, see our latest issue here. Never miss a story… Follow us on: LinkedIn: Security Buyer Twitter (X): @SecurityBuyer Facebook: @Secbuyer Media Contact Rebecca Morpeth Spayne, Editor, Security Portfolio Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 922 Email: [email protected]

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Axis Communications opens new office and experience centre in Saudi Arabia

Industry Sectors, Middle East News Desk, News Desk, Project News, Technology / Rebecca Morpeth-Spayne

Axis Communications has officially inaugurated its new office and Axis Experience Centre in Saudi Arabia, marking a significant enhancement of its operations in the region. This strategic move reinforces the company’s commitment to fostering innovation and building relationships within the Middle East. The grand opening ceremony, held on 16 October, attracted a notable assembly of dignitaries and industry stakeholders, including Peter Lindström, Executive Vice President of Sales & Marketing at Axis Communications, Verena Rathjen, Vice President EMEA, and Petra Menander, the Swedish Ambassador to Saudi Arabia. The event provided an opportunity for networking and showcased live demonstrations of Axis’s cutting-edge technologies, with speeches highlighting the company’s vision and dedication to the region. In his address, Lindström emphasised the importance of the new centre in Riyadh, stating, “The brand-new center not only signals our commitment to the region but our commitment to bring the experience it offers to our valued customers and partners in Saudi Arabia. With this launch, we are positioned to proudly showcase the potential of Axis solutions in key industries, as well as the value offerings that make Axis the leader in smart surveillance technology around the world.” The Axis Experience Centre in Riyadh, the second of its kind in the Middle East after the centre in Dubai, spans 252 square metres and is strategically located at Unit 6-8, Home Offices, Al Urubah Road. This state-of-the-art facility serves as a collaborative space for Axis customers, partners, and integrators, providing a comprehensive view of the latest innovations in security technologies. Visitors can engage with hands-on demonstrations of Axis’s network video, audio, and access control solutions, while gaining insights into the current trends shaping the physical security industry. Rathjen noted, “The Axis Experience Center puts our technology at the fingertips of our customers and stakeholders, enabling a closer look and understanding of how we leverage that technology to deliver results. At the same time, the space brings us closer to our customers, enabling us to learn more about them and refine our offerings to meet their organizational needs.” The new centre also extends exclusive benefits to Axis partners, allowing them to utilise the venue for client events, access technology specialists for support, and receive assistance in designing comprehensive security and surveillance solutions tailored to their specific business requirements. A key focus of the Axis Experience Centre is its emphasis on innovation in critical infrastructure and related sectors. Recognising the importance of reliable critical infrastructure and industries such as energy and oil and gas, Axis offers a diverse range of products and systems aimed at enhancing operational efficiency and safety. By providing operators with increased awareness and insights, Axis empowers them to improve productivity, strengthen health and safety protocols, and bolster security against various threats. The establishment of the Axis Experience Centre signifies a pivotal development for the company’s presence in the Middle East, a region that continues to thrive and play a critical role in the global economy. The centre will facilitate the building of new partnerships and the strengthening of existing ones, all while supporting the socioeconomic growth and prosperity of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Menander concluded, “As one of Sweden’s most successful brands, Axis Communications embodies the qualities of respect, refinement, and reliability that Saudi Arabia and other nations in the region value. Through multinational collaboration and a shared desire to create a safer, smarter, and more sustainable future, we can lead the charge in effective transformation and set new standards in the global security industry.” Read more in our latest issue here. Never miss a story… Follow us on: Security Buyer @SecurityBuyer @Secbuyer Media Contact Rebecca Morpeth Spayne, Editor, Security Portfolio Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 922 Email: [email protected]

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GITEX GLOBAL 2024: AI revolution drives strategic tech innovation

Industry Sectors, Middle East News Desk, News Desk, Product News, Technology / Rebecca Morpeth-Spayne

GITEX GLOBAL 2024 concluded on Friday, showcasing artificial intelligence (AI) as a transformative force driving business and economic growth. The event drew a record-breaking 6,500 exhibitors, 1,800 startups, and 1,200 investors, alongside government representatives from over 180 countries, further establishing Dubai as a global technology hub. Under the theme “Global Collaboration to Forge a Future AI Economy,” the 44th edition of GITEX GLOBAL reinforced AI’s pivotal role in reshaping industries. The five-day event set new benchmarks in innovation, unveiling Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) and strategic agreements aimed at propelling the global AI market towards an estimated value of USD $1,339.1 billion by 2030. Notable tech giants such as Oracle, Dell Technologies, and Microsoft leveraged the event to announce new AI, cloud, and cybersecurity innovations. Oracle showcased collaborations with the Mohammed Bin Rashid Housing Establishment and Mashreq Bank, further demonstrating the importance of GITEX GLOBAL as a platform for digital transformation. Cybersecurity was a major focus, emphasising the need for robust digital infrastructure in an era of evolving threats. Discussions on next-generation AI innovations in sectors like autonomous vehicles and healthcare underscored the technology’s potential to reshape global industries. Looking ahead, GITEX GLOBAL will return from 13-17 October 2025, while its expanding global portfolio, including GITEX AFRICA and GITEX ASIA, will continue driving technological collaboration across regions. The event, now cemented as the world’s largest tech gathering, is expected to further accelerate AI adoption and digital transformation globally. Read more in our latest issue here. Never miss a story… Follow us on: Security Buyer @SecurityBuyer @Secbuyer Media Contact Rebecca Morpeth Spayne, Editor, Security Portfolio Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 922 Email: [email protected]

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ASSA ABLOY biometric solution wins major security award

Industry Sectors, Latest News, Product News, Technology / Rebecca Morpeth-Spayne

A digital access innovation from ASSA ABLOY has been recognised at the 25th Kings Excellence Awards, dedicated to products and solutions for the safety and security industry, iDFace from Control iD, an ASSA ABLOY brand, won Best Biometric Product of the Year. Part of a suite of digital access solutions from the experts at ASSA ABLOY, this award-winning new facial recognition reader works with Impro’s Primo access control platform, a flexible, scalable digital access solution designed for medium-sized and large businesses. iDFace is an innovative facial recognition reader with Vision AI and a host of useful functionality. It can detect faces up to 6ft. (2m) away in total darkness and offers multi-language support within the centralised Primo platform. The user-friendly interface, coupled with analytics which enhance decision-making, enables security personnel to monitor and manage access rights efficiently and respond promptly to any unauthorised entry attempt or security breach. The 2024 Kings Excellence Awards jury comprised diverse access and safety experts including global leaders and working fire marshals. The presentation ceremony was held on 29 August, during the Safe-Tech Conference in Mumbai. Biometric solutions offer a reliable way to implement authentication at premises where access must be restricted and monitored. Users also favour its convenience; they no longer need to carry keys, smartcards, badges or fobs to unlock relevant secure areas. Facial recognition solutions like iDFace also bring the hygiene benefits of touchless entry. As a result of these advantages, the popularity of facial recognition readers has been increasingly rapidly in both mature and emerging markets. According to analysts TechNavio, the market for biometric access control systems overall is experiencing accelerating growth momentum, projected at CAGR of 8% over the next 5 years, driven mainly by emerging markets. “Led by innovative products like iDFace, advanced biometric identification is no longer the preserve of large corporations with huge security budgets,” says Vishal Maheshwari, Director & Head – Electromechanical & Digital Access Solutions at ASSA ABLOY Opening Solutions MEIIA. “The award-winning iDFace and integratable software access platform, Impro, bring the substantial benefits of digital access to organizations of every size and type.” “ASSA ABLOY digital access solutions help businesses confront challenges from sustainability to workflow efficiency, business security and employee convenience. With expert advice from a global leader, they can digitalize with confidence and get their access ready for what’s ahead.” Read more in our latest issue here. Never miss a story… Follow us on: Security Buyer @SecurityBuyer @Secbuyer Media Contact Rebecca Morpeth Spayne, Editor, Security Portfolio Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 922 Email: [email protected]

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Innovative, digital, reusable: a keyless locking solution

News Desk / Rebecca Morpeth-Spayne

Protecting booths at trade shows is a challenge. After all, exhibitors want a constant stream of high traffic, especially from people they are meeting for the first time. It’s why they attend such large-scale fairs. Relying on exhibition-provided security is sadly not enough. Individual stands need their own protection — for areas where valuable equipment, product samples or confidential commercial documents are kept. Barcelona-based ExpoFactory specialize in the design and build of award-winning exhibition stands for the MICE, retail and habitats/architecture sectors**. They understand that booth security is integral to customers’ needs — and that keeping booths safe is not easy. They hoped to identify an innovative, modern solution which would be more flexible and convenient than mechanical lock-and-key security. Two more factors were critical in their choice. Firstly, easy installation, to ensure that fitting locks did not slow down their build process. Secondly, and equally important: The ability to easily reset and reuse devices. ExpoFactory need locks which can be trusted to last. Everyone has their own PIN — no one carries keys To replace manual, mechanical keys and cylinders, they chose Code Handle Door, a digital PIN door lock housed within an elegant handle. So far, 60 devices have been equipped. With a Code Handle, all that’s needed to unlock is a secure 4- to 6-digit PIN. There’s no key to use, lose or track — and no worries that it’s been copied. “Code Handle has a stylish design, easy installation and eliminates the need for physical keys,” says Adelfio Marino, Logistics Centre Manager at ExpoFactory. Installation is fast: the Code Handle fits over a standard cylinder and is fixed in place by two screws. Batteries slot inside for a minimal footprint. There’s no wiring or software to worry about. When the event is finished, it’s simple to reset the device ready to incorporate in another trade show stand. Code Handle instantly upgrades booth security. It makes sure only the right people have access, not just anyone who happens upon the key. With no keys to track, organizing stand security is easier, too. Everyone on the stand works faster because they don’t wait for a keyholder to appear. With Code Handle, the team leader chooses up to 9 different PINs for authorized staff (and cancels them anytime). It’s also a convenient digital solution tailor-made for busy trade shows: “Everything was easy and effective,” adds Adelfio. “And it makes our final product of higher quality. The customer prefers it.” With its unique combination of durability, stylish design and ease-of-use, the Code Handle digital lock has already been deployed to separate public and private spaces in all kinds of settings — from clinics and pharmacies to shops and home offices. Read more exclusives and news in our latest issue here. Never miss a story… Follow us on: Security Buyer @SecurityBuyer @Secbuyer Media Contact Rebecca Morpeth Spayne, Editor, Security Portfolio Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 922 Email: [email protected]

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“Security-by-design” Aims Fall Short, Adding Up to 20% to Construction Costs

Industry Sectors, News Desk, Product News, Technology / Rebecca Morpeth-Spayne

Brivo, provider of cloud-based access control and smart building technologies, today announces the results of its research into integrated physical security in building design by Architecture, Engineering and Construction (AEC) practitioners. The report finds that despite an increased commitment to “security-by-design” principles, the industry is still spending significant time and money post-build to fix security issues, risking dire retroactive effects. The report, The State of ‘Security-by-Design’: Is Security an Afterthought in Building Design?, surveyed 800 decision-makers in building design across the US, UK, and the DACH regions. The results show that physical security is, today, more important in building design than ever. A decade ago, security was not considered a top priority, but it is now a top three concern—only safety and sustainability were seen as more important. The good news is that AEC practitioners have responded to this demand, and 56% now have a process for integrating security into building design, and 41% are currently implementing such a process. There is also a good understanding of the need for physical security to be an integral part of design, rather than “patched-in” later, with 94% of AEC practitioners agreeing. However, reality is falling short of ambition. When responsible for security post-build, many report that fixing physical security problems adds additional costs as high as 20%. “Time and money spent fixing security issues post-build are a problem, but it’s the retroactive effects that can create real issues,” said Paula Balmori, Director of Global Security Design & System Integrations, Brivo. “Failing to reach milestones can trigger contractual clauses that lead to damages, and clients can even end up taking legal action if delays are excessive and lead to a break of contract.” When asked about the greatest barriers to implementing security by design, respondents cited regulations, budget constraints and design and aesthetic conflicts as the main problems they encountered, reflecting a change in priority that the industry has yet to fully grapple with. But demands for integrated physical security in design are here to stay: 89% of respondents reported that security was a part of the design briefs they received, and 88% have seen a rise in customer demand for security integration. “It would be madness today to design a building and leave plumbing, heating and lighting as an afterthought to be figured out later—similarly, we would not expect construction to be postponed because of issues with the planning of these key utilities,” said Balmori. “Physical security needs to be seen the same way. Too often we see sub-par solutions put in place because not enough thought was given to security at the design stage. The good news is that the industry understands this issue—now, they just need to make sure that the results match this understanding.” The State of ‘Security-by-Design’: Is Security an Afterthought in Building Design? is available for download on the Brivo website. Read more exclusives and news in our latest issue here. Never miss a story… Follow us on: Security Buyer @SecurityBuyer @Secbuyer Media Contact Rebecca Morpeth Spayne, Editor, Security Portfolio Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 922 Email: [email protected]

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ICT appoints Tyler Christensen as US Director of Channel Sales

News Desk, People News / Rebecca Morpeth-Spayne

Leading Electronic Access Control Manufacturer, ICT, Welcomes Tyler Christensen to Drive Channel Growth and Enhance Sales Leadership in the United States Award winning global manufacturer of intelligent access control and security solutions, ICT (Integrated Control Technology), is delighted to announce the appointment of Tyler Christensen as US Director of Channel Sales. With an extensive career in the security industry, including significant leadership roles in sales and channel management, Tyler brings a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of the challenges faced by security integrators. Tyler’s professional journey includes sales roles for both small and large integrators, providing him with invaluable insights into the day-to-day challenges and nuances of the industry. His expertise extends to a successful tenure as Regional Sales Manager (RSM)/Channel Account Manager (CAM) for Avigilon, where he achieved record growth annually in his territory. In his most recent position as a Regional Sales Director, Tyler was responsible for overseeing RSMs/CAMs in a seven-state territory, highlighting his leadership capabilities and strategic vision for driving sales success. Expressing his enthusiasm for the new role, Tyler Christensen said, “I am thrilled to have been selected to join ICT in a leadership role. My passion for the security industry, combined with my background in integrator sales, channel management, and sales leadership, positions me well to contribute to the growth and development of the ICT team and channel.” In his capacity as the US Director of Channel Sales, Tyler will play a pivotal role in driving channel growth, fostering strong relationships with integrators, and providing strategic leadership to further elevate ICT’s position in the US market. ICT extends a warm welcome to Tyler Christensen as he takes on his new role and looks forward to achieving new heights in channel sales and market development under his leadership. For more information about ICT and its innovative access control solutions, please visit http://www.ict.co Read more exclusives and news in our latest issue here. Never miss a story… Follow us on: Security Buyer @SecurityBuyer @Secbuyer Media Contact Rebecca Morpeth Spayne, Editor, Security Portfolio Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 922 Email: [email protected]

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IDIS Extends Edge AI Camera Lineup

Industry Sectors, News Desk, Technology / Rebecca Morpeth-Spayne

IDIS, South Korea’s largest in-country manufacturer of video tech, is expanding its range of Edge AI cameras, making it easier than ever for a wider range of customers to benefit from industry-best deep learning video analytics across commercial premises, public spaces, and perimeters, reduce the nuisance of false alarms, and provide advanced AI-powered analytics exactly where they are needed most. Able to accurately distinguish between humans, vehicles, and other objects, the new IDIS Edge AI camera range reduces false alarms and, thanks to metadata, improves the responsiveness and operational efficiency of security teams with faster forensic search and investigation. The plug-and-play, NDAA compliant cameras, equipped with the up to 98% accurate IDIS Deep Learning Engine on the edge, deliver accurate and dependable detection and auto-tracking of suspicious individuals and vehicles, enabling a rapid response to alerts for intrusion, line cross, and loitering events. Twelve new models are being launched across North America, including 2MP and 5MP bullets, domes and turrets, and models featuring NIR Lightmaster technology for evidential image capture in the dark, true WDR, H.265 and IDIS Intelligent Codec offering significant storage and bandwidth savings, alarm and audio in and out, IK10 and IP67 ratings, IDIS Smart Failover, ONVIF support, and outdoor models with built-in heaters. The standout 4MP Edge AI PTZ (DC-S6481HRA) features 36x zoom, automated or manual AI tracking, and night vision up to 1300 feet, making it perfectly designed for securing expansive areas, risk-critical applications, and perimeter protection. Uniquely, the camera offers operators two options for tracking suspicious individuals or objects: automatically – based on personalized, pre-set events using IDIS Deep Learning Analytics, or manually – using cost-free client software IDIS Center VMS by simply selecting a person of interest with a mouse click. Both options allow users to track subjects’ movements seamlessly and accurately over long distances, using the power of AI. This enables more efficient and accurate surveillance operations, strengthening security and safety, and reducing the likelihood of human error. “With these latest innovative launches, our range of Edge AI cameras has been significantly extended to include models for the widest range of surveillance applications and challenges,” says Andrew Myung, President, IDIS America. “Together these new cameras, powered by the up to 98% accurate IDIS Deep Learning Engine, make it easy for systems integrators and end-users to add transformative video analytics capabilities to any surveillance operation to improve response times to critical events and increase operational efficiency.” Read more exclusives and news in our latest issue here. Never miss a story… Follow us on: Security Buyer @SecurityBuyer @Secbuyer Media Contact Rebecca Morpeth Spayne, Editor, Security Portfolio Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 922 Email: [email protected]

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MSPs can support SMEs with the right AI infrastructure

Industry Sectors, Technology, UK News Desk / Rebecca Morpeth-Spayne

As we approach the new year, keeping track of SME top priorities and how they can best be addressed is essential for MSPs seeking to retain customer interest. Gartner’s recent 2023 CEO survey showed that environmental issues entered the top 10 priority ranking for the first time in the survey, with 64% of CEOs surveyed said combining digitalisation, such as AI adoption, and environmental sustainability is a growth opportunity. While sustainability is a crucial issue for SMEs across multiple industries, the prominence of next-generation computing tools such as generative AI (GenAI) has allowed greater workplace efficiency without significantly adding to green footprints. Yet leveraging growth with these tools for a much greener future can be challenging for business leaders looking to integrate AI effectively but not knowing where to start. Mark Appleton, Chief Customer Officer at ALSO Cloud UK, believes IT leaders must balance the demand for modern AI tools in their workplaces and maximise sustainability initiatives. This solution can be found within MSP partnerships – IT leaders shouldn’t feel pressured to use every next-gen technology and instead rely on their provider for tailored solutions customised to their needs. “Generative AI developments are just one of many steps in the journey to cloud seen by the modern business landscape. Whilst the cloud transition has been an eventuality for many UK businesses, the advantages reported by small business enterprises using AI technology have proven that this will soon become a crucial part of the modern workplace. “But while it has already been proven that the technology helps the workforce save time and cut down on mistakes, the top obstacles for its integration have been understanding how to use AI solutions effectively and pinpointing which ones will create the most growth for SMEs on an individual level. Guidance is needed, especially for smaller businesses trying not to be left behind by their larger competitors.” Appleton believes MSPs can support SMEs transitioning to AI and Gen AI solutions. “From prompt engineering to integrating AI tools into infrastructure, MSPs are in the best position to understand their SME customer needs individually and support them with specific infrastructure. As AI enables us to work smarter and greener, we expect to see more innovations shaping the future of work and sustainability. “AI-driven tools such as Microsoft Copilot add to sustainability efforts, as teams work more efficiently with reduced energy consumption. Infrastructure and sustainability tie in together; without the proper infrastructure, it can disrupt business continuity, so MSPs have a role in ensuring that tools that provide sustainability support are also integrated in a way that users can access and quickly get to grips with. “Onboarding is a crucial part of MSPs liaising with customers, so as sustainability becomes even more of a driving factor for IT leaders and CIOs alike, MSP onboarding packages should reflect this. But as with every business journey, this begins with the first step. Finding the best approach to facilitate business functions is key to long-term success for SMEs, and MSPs have a critical role in aiding with this guidance and support.” Read more exclusives and news in our latest issue here. Never miss a story… Follow us on: Security Buyer @SecurityBuyer @Secbuyer Media Contact Rebecca Morpeth Spayne, Editor, Security Portfolio Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 922 Email: [email protected]

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5 technology trends affecting the security sector in 2024

Exclusives / Rebecca Morpeth-Spayne

With 2024 now very close, please find below from Axis Communications CTO, Johan Paulsson – 5 technology trends affecting the security sector in 2024: A rapidly evolving tech landscape underpins Axis key trends impacting the security and video surveillance market in the year ahead. Axis Communications, a leader in network video, has announced its 5 technology trends affecting the security sector in 2024. From generative AI and hybrid architectures to compliance and the need to take a total system view, the trends reflect a rapidly evolving environment and are a mix of positive opportunities to be grasped alongside challenges that need to be addressed. Even for veterans of the technology industry, the pace of change over the past 12 months has been extraordinary. Technology and security professionals should be in no doubt that recent innovations are bringing both huge opportunities and more complex challenges than ever before. Keeping pace with the changes – for vendors, customers, and regulators – demands focus, energy, and diligence. Axis 5 key technological trends affecting the security sector in 2024: Exploiting the potential for generative AI in the security sector Every business is looking at the potential use cases of generative AI, and the security sector is no different. The availability of AI and deep learning in security devices has grown, with virtually every new network camera now powerful enough to perform complex AI-driven analytics on the network edge. It is now time for generative AI to make an impact. 2023 saw generative AI based on large language models (LLMs) forcing their way into the public consciousness. 2024 will see security-focused applications making use of such technology to create automated assistants for operators, helping them interpret what is happening in a scene, as well as powering AI support assistants for customers. Generative AI’s risks and potential pitfalls will no doubt mean its use is the source of much debate – but the biggest risk would be to ignore it. Solution management efficiencies driving hybrid architecture Hybrid solution architectures combining on-premise, cloud, and edge technologies are now an established standard in many security solutions. Ultimately, system architectures should be independent of a vendor’s preferred structure, and should be created to service the customer’s needs. The more of a solution that exists in environments easily accessible to both vendors and customers, the more ability vendors have to manage elements of that system, taking a greater responsibility and reducing the burden on customers. 2024’s hybrid architectures will also support the forthcoming use cases for AI support and automation in solution management and operation. Increased system accessibility is valuable to both human and AI support, helping both take advantage of each different instance’s strengths. Security always, but safety too Security and safety have often been considered as a single subject, but are increasingly being recognized as separate cases: security relating to intentional acts, and safety surrounding unintentional dangers and incidents that could harm people, property, and the environment. The use of video surveillance and analytics in safety use cases is growing fast and will continue to do so in 2024. Video surveillance, environmental sensors, and analytics will be increasingly used by authorities to give early warning of potential climate-related disasters, for instance – and they will also support the most rapid and effective response. More powerful video analytics can also help support risk management and regulatory compliance by, for example, automatically monitoring the wearing of required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), and assisting with post-incident investigations. Regulation and compliance driving technology Changes in the global regulatory environment increasingly impact the development, application and use of technology. With AI, cybersecurity, sustainability and corporate governance now coming under greater regulatory scrutiny, vendors will need to develop technology and operate their businesses in ways that support their customers’ compliance requirements. Geopolitics and trade relations between nation states are also resulting in regulations that demand diligence and transparency down to the component level, throughout the value chain, in order for vendors to maintain a license to operate in key international markets. Where security technology is concerned, it’s a question of trust. Can customers be sure that every link in their supply chain is operating in a way that supports their own regulatory compliance? Taking a ‘total system’ perspective Total cost of ownership (TCO) is an important measure, but consideration and transparency surrounding the total impact of ownership – also considering non-financial aspects like environmental and societal impact – is vital to align with customers’ value chains. Taking a total system perspective – considering not only the cost of running and maintaining end-point hardware but the impact of the entire ecosystem which supports it – will be a primary area of concern in 2024. A total system perspective might lead to using cameras that reduce bitrate, storage, and server load with the intention of reducing server cooling requirements, for example. More efficient transportation of products, sustainable packaging, and the use of standard components will all also play a part. Read more exclusives and news in our latest issue here. Never miss a story… Follow us on: Security Buyer @SecurityBuyer @Secbuyer Media Contact Rebecca Morpeth Spayne, Editor, Security Portfolio Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 922 Email: [email protected]

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