The security executive role has never been more challenging as physical and cybersecurity threats have converged to become a two-headed monster that must be battled.

With physical security systems now inextricably intertwined with the digital networks that support them, the security executive role has never been more challenging.  A hacked network can provide entry into security systems, shutting down mission-critical operations that keep people and property safe. Conversely, a hacked security system can provide access into a network, leading to catastrophic data breaches. Physical and cybersecurity threats have converged to become a two-headed monster that must be battled with constant vigilance.

When it comes to delivering security KPIs, physical security technologies are only as robust as the infrastructure that supports them. The latest generation of security solutions places unprecedented demands on network performance. Industrial security strategies must be comprehensive. Strategies should include careful consideration of how reliable, redundant connectivity can extend to mobile and autonomous assets. Further, accommodating the torrents of data common to today’s systems, making the data impervious to hacking and environmental interference, and still remaining affordable to install and maintain must be considered. This whitepaper will examine why wireless mesh holds the key.

This article by Rajant, written by public safety and security expert Brian Higgins, CPP, CSSP, will address why, given these requirements, CSOs, CIOs, CTOs, public safety leaders, and decision-makers are increasingly turning to wireless mesh to support their mission-critical needs.

The Evolving Nature of Industrial Security—Risks Have Never Been Greater or More Diverse

The last decade has been pivotal for industrial security, as AI, robotics, and the IIOT have dramatically altered the technology tools available to CSO and CISOs. Smarter, integrated, and continuously connected systems empower security teams to keep much tighter tabs on the physical state of their properties and the safety of on-site workers and visitors. Collectively, they’ve enabled a more proactive approach to identify security threats and mitigate their associated risks.

Analytics built into cameras, access control readers, geo-fencing, and other sensor devices can flag anomalous events and issue alerts. Mobile video from body cams, drones, vehicles, and even cell phones, can be viewed, managed, and recorded as part of site-wide video surveillance platforms. Remote, automated monitoring of machine health can minimise system failures and down-time while enhancing worker safety. These are just a few of the many ways that industrial security has evolved.

Security robots are also suddenly receiving a lot of attention from the industrial security sector. Months spent on Zoom and Facetime in 2020 have made security executives more receptive to deploying robots for remote security monitoring, health monitoring, and concierge services. At the same time, corporate management recognises how robots can reduce workplace density and the spread of disease.

The efficacy of these next-generation solutions is only as strong as the networks that support them. The bar is high for what they must deliver…

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