Physical security

ZBeta, a pioneer in delivering comprehensive physical security consulting services, unveils a new Drones and Robotics Consulting Practice designed to help organisations understand, evaluate and prepare for the rapidly expanding role of autonomous and unmanned technologies in physical security. Drones and robotics are changing the security landscape from two directions. Organisations face growing risks from unauthorised drones, including surveillance, espionage, disruption, and threats to critical infrastructure. At the same time, drones and robotic systems are creating new opportunities to extend security operations through automated patrols, remote inspections, incident response, and enhanced situational awareness. Enhanced situational awareness For security leaders, the challenge is determining whether these technologies will affect their operations as well as understanding how they change the security environment. They also need to be aware of where the greatest risks and opportunities exist, and what role emerging technologies should play within a broader physical security strategy. “Drones are effectively creating a new dimension of the physical security perimeter,” said Andrew Corsaro, Vice President of Consulting Services, ZBeta. “Organisations need to understand what is happening in and around their airspace, but they also need to think more broadly about where drones and robotics can strengthen their security programs. Our role is to help clients cut through a rapidly changing technology landscape and determine what actually makes sense for their environment.” Physical security strategy ZBeta’s Drone and Robotics Consulting Program brings the company’s technology-independent approach to this rapidly evolving area of security. Working alongside client security teams, ZBeta can assess airspace and autonomous-system risks, develop drone detection and Counter-UAS strategies, evaluate available technologies and validate their performance through real-world testing. The team can also help organisations establish the policies, procedures, and response plans needed to operationalise these technologies while navigating the regulatory and operational considerations surrounding their use. The program extends beyond protecting organisations from drones. ZBeta also helps clients evaluate how drones and robotic technologies can be used as part of the security operation, including applications such as surveillance, remote inspections, patrols, incident assessment, and response. This allows organisations to consider both sides of the emerging technology landscape: mitigating new vulnerabilities while identifying opportunities to strengthen and extend existing security capabilities. Broader security program The launch comes as security teams are being asked to make decisions in a market where technologies, threats, and regulations continue to evolve quickly. Rather than starting with a specific product or solution, ZBeta’s approach begins with the organisation’s risks, environment and objectives, helping clients determine what capabilities they need and how those capabilities should fit within the broader security program. Organisations interested in assessing drone and robotic security risks, evaluating technology, or developing a broader strategy can schedule a consultation with ZBeta’s Drone and Robotics Consulting team or visit them at booth #3713 at GSX 2026.

SAFR, a global provider of face-based security solutions, will showcase at GSX 2026 how organisations can gain greater certainty about who entered and what happened, while maintaining control over how privacy is managed. Across physical security, organisations are looking for ways to strengthen access control, improve visibility and investigate events faster. But adopting face-based technology can also introduce important questions around privacy, including where information is processed, how it is managed and which approach is appropriate for a particular environment. SAFR gives organisations the most choice to handle privacy. Intent-based access With SAFR SCAN, organisations have multiple ways to manage privacy based on their requirements, including choices around what biometric data is stored, where it is stored and how long it is retained. Options such as storing biometrics on a user’s mobile device or smart card gives the user control over their biometric data, while intent-based access removes inadvertent background scanning. With SAFR Camera, face matching is processed directly on the device, with non-matches deleted, helping to minimise unnecessary data collection. “Security and privacy shouldn’t have to compete,” said John Cassise, Chief Product Officer at SAFR. “Every organisation has different requirements. We believe they should have choices in how they deploy face-based security and manage privacy, rather than having those decisions dictated by the technology. SAFR gives customers that flexibility while helping security teams gain greater certainty about what happened.” Face-based security ecosystem At GSX 2026, SAFR will demonstrate how its portfolio supports stronger security without giving up control over privacy. From access control to video, organisations can choose the SAFR face-based solution that fits their environment while maintaining greater control over how privacy is managed. That flexibility means organisations can bring the technology to the areas that matter most, work with the security infrastructure they already have and select an approach to privacy that aligns with their requirements. The result: greater certainty, more visibility and stronger security without requiring privacy to be the tradeoff. SAFR will demonstrate its face-based security ecosystem at GSX 2026, September 14–16 in Atlanta, Booth 2051.

HiveWatch, a physical security software company reimagining how organisations keep their people and assets safe, announced today that Dinesh Coca has joined the company as GM & SVP, Product & Engineering – along with a wave of new capabilities and integrations built around one idea: operators shouldn’t spend their shifts digging through noise. HiveWatch will showcase all of these during GSX 2026, Sept. 14-16, in Atlanta, at booth #4459.   Meet Dinesh Coca joins HiveWatch with the experience to lead these efforts: he has spent more than 20 years building and scaling technology products, starting as a software engineer before moving into product and leadership roles. “HiveWatch stood out because the problem is so clear,” said Coca. “Security teams already feel the pain of working across a dozen systems just to understand and respond to one incident. There’s a huge opportunity to make that experience dramatically simpler.” Dinesh spent nearly a decade at Medallia, helping grow the company from pre-Series A through the public markets. At BigPanda, he helped customers cut through noisy monitoring and observability data. Most recently, he built a new SaaS product line at Motive, taking it from zero to 500 customers in 18 months.  “My focus is going to be listening closely to customers and making sure we’re building products they want to use, while also giving security leaders a clearer view into the value those products are delivering,” Coca said. Part of that effort will be building on the AI-centric focus of the platform.  Let AI handle more of the noise HiveWatch is also focused on a common challenge in security operations centers: the hundreds (if not thousands) of calls that come into an enterprise organisation’s security operations center (SOC). Many aren’t emergencies. Someone might be reporting a broken window, water leak, or another facility issue, something that needs to be documented and routed, but shouldn’t require a SOC operator to drop everything and respond. That’s changing with AI Operator Communicate, a new HiveWatch capability designed to handle and route incoming calls to SOCs.  “There’s been plenty of conversation about using AI to replace people. That’s not how we think about it,” said Ryan Schonfeld, Co-Founder & CEO, HiveWatch. “The operator is still at the center of the experience. We’re using AI to clear away the boring, repetitive work around them, so they can spend more time on the situations where human judgment actually matters.” Answering incoming calls HiveWatch can now answer an incoming call, figure out what's happening, and guide the caller through a decision tree built on the organisation's own security protocols and SOPs. It responds in the caller's language, too, with support for 40+ languages across global security operations. If the call is an emergency, it escalates immediately and brings a human operator into the loop. If it isn't, the platform documents the issue and routes it where it belongs without pulling an operator off more important work. Every interaction delivers a transcript and audit trail inside HiveWatch: what happened, what was said, and how the call was handled. The call-in capability is initially rolling out in beta with a major U.S. telecom company, which has seen early results better managing a monthly volume of 1000+ inbound calls.  Keep making the operator’s job easier AI Operator Communicate is part of a broader push at HiveWatch to make the day-to-day operator experience simpler. A few more updates working toward the same goal:  Program recommendations surface patterns that are easy to miss, such as recurring hardware issues, faulty alarm configuration rules, or risky employee behavior patterns. With this new feature, teams can track each recommendation through completion, building a clear record of how their security program is improving over time. One beta program customer decreased false incident volume by ~95% based on HiveWatch GSOC OS recommendations. Configurable workflows turn SOPs into step-by-step, dynamic instructions inside HiveWatch, with no digging through a PDF or hunting for a phone number mid-incident. Every incident response follows the SOP and documents it, automatically. Email alert ingestion for older systems without a clean API. If it can send an email, HiveWatch can ingest it, and bring that alert into the same operator workflow as everything else.  Together, the updates reduce the manual work on operators and paint a clear picture of the next step.  HiveWatch brings security stack into one place with key partnerships HiveWatch has always been built to work with the tools you already own, not replace them. New partnerships with Acre Security, Arcules Video Surveillance-as-a-Service from Milestone Systems, and Lumana add more ways to connect what's already there: Acre Security (booth #4170): HiveWatch can ingest access control events from acre security, bringing those events into the same queue where operators manage alarms and incidents from the rest of their physical security stack. Arcules VSaaS (Milestone Systems, booth #2312): Teams can bring video from the Arcules VSaaS into HiveWatch to add visual context around access control events and help operators understand what happened without jumping between systems. Lumana: HiveWatch can ingest Lumana video and video-based analytics, including alerts for scenarios such as slip-and-fall events, people of interest, license plate recognition, occupancy, traffic activity, and line crossing. Those alerts can then be standardised and managed alongside other security events inside HiveWatch. Join us at GSX 2026 Learn more about these product updates and integrations at GSX 2026, Sept. 14-16. Come find HiveWatch at booth #4459. 

Safetrust today introduced the Safetrust Aliro 1.0 Migration Credential, a physical credential designed to help enterprises move from proprietary access technologies to the open Aliro standard without replacing their existing reader infrastructure. Enterprises can issue, manage, and update the credential themselves, while one organisation-controlled identity can operate across Aliro-compatible readers from multiple vendors. Organisation-controlled digital trust Traditional credentials often rely on proprietary keys controlled by an access control vendor. Aliro credentials instead use digital certificates the organisation issues and controls. As with the certificates that secure websites and enterprise IT systems, the organisation determines which identities are trusted, where they can be used, and how certificates are issued, updated, and revoked. Organisations can also authorise external partners, including landlords, parking operators, and workplace service providers, to trust the same credential. One badge can therefore provide access to corporate offices, shared buildings, parking facilities, and other approved environments without requiring a separate credential from each provider. For large enterprises, this provides direct control over credential security, less dependence on any single hardware vendor, and alignment across physical access, enterprise PKI, identity and access management, and Zero Trust strategy. The credential implements the Connectivity Standards Alliance's Aliro 1.0 specification and works with Aliro-compatible hardware from multiple vendors. Aliro was developed through collaboration among more than 220 CSA member companies, including Apple, Google, Samsung, and Safetrust. A new model for enterprise identity "Aliro represents the first time customers and vendors outside the government sector have come together around a common standard for organisational identity," said Jason Hart, CEO and co-founder of Safetrust. "For enterprise security leaders, this creates a path to stronger security and greater vendor choice without requiring a disruptive replacement of their existing access infrastructure." Passport model for access As an open, multi-vendor standard, Aliro is becoming the enterprise equivalent of a passport: the issuer establishes a trusted identity, while independent organisations decide whether and where to accept it. Moving beyond proprietary credentials For decades, physical access customers have migrated from one proprietary credential technology to the next, often replacing readers, credentials, and key infrastructure with each generation. While the cryptography improved, the underlying model often did not: the credential vendor continued to control the technology and the critical trust infrastructure. When that vendor-controlled trust infrastructure was compromised, the security of the credentials customers relied upon was compromised with it, restarting the migration cycle all over again. Open migration path Aliro changes that model. Instead of asking customers to migrate to Safetrust's next proprietary credential, Safetrust is providing a migration path to an industry standard that any compliant vendor can implement. The organisation, not Safetrust, generates and controls its keys and establishes its trust relationships, bringing physical access in line with the certificate-based security practices already familiar to enterprise IT. Supporting legacy infrastructure The Safetrust Aliro credential simplifies migration by consolidating multiple legacy credentials onto a single card. Safetrust has independently developed emulation technology that enables interoperability with installed legacy reader ecosystems, including readers configured for HID® Seos® Standard and Elite credentials, LEAF credentials, vendor-specific credentials used with MIFARE® DESFire® data models, and more than 30 low-frequency proximity technologies. Safetrust independently developed these legacy-compatible applications, and they are not HID or other third-party credentials. This allows one physical credential to work with existing legacy readers without modifying the installed infrastructure, while also supporting migration to Aliro. Phased migration without disruption Organisations can therefore migrate to Aliro at their own pace without disrupting day-to-day operations. Existing readers can remain in service while Aliro-capable infrastructure is introduced progressively, starting with the highest-risk areas such as data centers, schools, production and warehouse environments, and other sensitive or unsupervised openings. As reader infrastructure is upgraded, the same credential transitions from legacy compatibility to Aliro's certificate-based trust model without requiring users to change cards again. The credential works with the infrastructure an organisation has today and moves to a stronger trust model as Aliro-capable infrastructure is deployed. Expanding credential capabilities The migration credential is designed to become more capable over time. Beyond physical access, organisations can enable additional applications and services on the same credential, extending their investment without issuing another badge. Extending beyond physical access The same physical credential can also extend beyond the door. An optional full FIDO2 application enables the Safetrust Aliro credential to operate as an NFC FIDO2 authenticator for compatible workstations, applications, services, and mobile devices. NFC tap-to-enroll is also supported, allowing organisations to consolidate physical access and strong digital authentication onto a single employee credential and potentially reduce the need for separate FIDO2 security tokens. Future-proof credential management As security requirements and standards evolve, administrators update credentials in the field by tapping the card on a desktop reader or NFC-enabled phone. Specification updates, digital certificate changes, and support for additional legacy credentials apply without replacing the physical badge, extending its useful life and simplifying credential management. Tap-To-Authenticate workflows Safetrust's patented Tap to Authenticate technology extends the physical credential into digital workflows. By tapping the card to an NFC-enabled phone or computer, an organisation can authenticate the credential and initiate an approved browser-based workflow, including identity verification, support services, emergency assistance, credential self-service, or mobile credential provisioning. For mobile wallet provisioning, organisations control which users are eligible and what identity verification is required before issuing an authorised credential to Apple Wallet, Google Wallet, Samsung Wallet, or Safetrust Wallet. Flexible deployment The credentials are available in multiple form factors and can be ordered preprogrammed, programmed onsite, or provisioned with an NFC-enabled mobile device. They are available today through Safetrust distribution partners and will be available online through retail channels in Q4 2026. Demonstrating Aliro At GSX 2026 Safetrust will demonstrate its Aliro physical credential alongside mobile credentials working across a range of vendors at the Global Security Exchange (GSX), September 14–16, 2026, at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta. Visit Safetrust at Booth 3545 and attend One Credential, Any Reader: How the Aliro Standard Ends Vendor Lock-In on Tuesday, September 15, from 2:45–3:45 p.m. ET in Room B308/B309. Safetrust will also host the webinar Aliro: The Card on Wednesday, September 9, at 11 a.m. 

Dallmeier will present its latest video security solutions and integrations at Security Essen from September 22 to 25, 2026, together with its technology partners Advancis and barox. This year’s trade show presence will focus, among other things, on integrated solutions for professional video security – from responding quickly to security-related events to efficiently monitoring the network and video systems in use.  Visitors will also have the opportunity to experience the Panomera® multifocal sensor technology for the efficient protection of large areas. Dallmeier will be represented at the barox booth in Hall 5, Booth B19, and at the Advancis booth in Hall 8, Booth A15. Dallmeier and Advancis: Fast alarm notification with the right images At the Advancis booth, the focus will be on the integration of Dallmeier camera systems with the WinGuard Physical Security Information Management (PSIM) system. In the event of an external alarm, the interface between Dallmeier and Advancis ensures that the relevant camera images are immediately available to the operator in WinGuard. At the same time, it enables alarm notifications from Dallmeier Edge video analytics to be transmitted quickly to WinGuard. This alerts the operator to a potential threat situation at an early stage and quickly provides a comprehensive overview of the situation, enabling the necessary measures to be initiated. About Panomera® V8 Another highlight is the Panomera® V8, which will be on display at the Advancis booth. With eight sensors, the multifocal sensor system captures a seamless 180° field of view without blind spot. Eight integrated AI chips and logically linked neural networks also provide the foundation for precise video analytics across large areas. This makes the Panomera® V8 suitable for extensive areas in industries such as manufacturing, logistics, airports, stadiums, and smart cities. Dallmeier and barox: Locating network issues faster At the barox booth, Dallmeier will showcase the Checkmk integration in the SeMSy® Event Manager and SeMSy® Compact. Information from barox switches can be read directly, enabling network issues to be located and resolved quickly and efficiently.Visitors to the barox booth can also gain insights into Dallmeier’s patented multifocal sensor technology with the Panomera® S8. The camera system combines images from multiple sensors into a high-resolution overall view, enabling the efficient monitoring of large areas and long distances.

Boon Edam Inc., a global pioneer in physical security entrances, will demonstrate its advanced secure entry innovations and the latest biometric and access control integrations at GSX 2026 booth 2633. The company will feature innovations like the Speedlane Compact and its Turnlock Full Height Turnstile on a forklift-ready mobile platform, as well as integrations with biometric industry leaders. Advanced entrances for secure, seamless access "Securing complex facilities—from outer perimeters to high-security interior zones—relies on physical barriers that actively stop unauthorized access," said Patrick Nora, President and Managing Director, Boon Edam. "At GSX 2026, we’re showcasing how our advanced entrances do exactly that. We've also paired select solutions with market-leading biometric technologies to deliver multi-factor authentication right at the entryway, giving organizations a highly sophisticated way to stop tailgating and piggybacking without slowing down access." Visit booth 2633 to learn more about these solutions Speedlane Compact Optical Turnstile with IDEMIA MorphoWave: This compact swing barrier gate helps prevent unauthorized access while optimizing space, security, and throughput. IDEMIA MorphoWave’s contactless 3D fingerprint technology scans up to four fingerprints in under a second with a simple wave of the hand. Integrated with the Speedlane Compact, the technology supports secure, hygienic access for up to 50 people per minute. Lifeline Speedlane Swing with Standard Card Reader: This sleek optical turnstile combines a swinging glass barrier with accurate tailgating detection and uses a standard card reader to provide secure access control and smooth pedestrian flow. Designed for corporate offices, healthcare facilities, commercial buildings, and more, the Speedlane Swing balances aesthetics, accessibility, and security in a streamlined footprint. Circlelock Interlocking Portal with Alcatraz Rock and Iris ID: The Circlelock delivers a high-security, unmanned entrance with piggybacking protection. At GSX, the portal interior will feature the Alcatraz Rock facial authentication for biometric access and tailgating detection. Iris ID will be featured on the exterior of the portal, showcasing iris and iris/face fusion technology for touch-free biometric access. Tourlock 180 with the Alcatraz Rock X: This high-security revolving door prevents piggybacking and tailgating with simultaneous, multi-directional access, ideal for unmanned and high-traffic areas. Paired with the Alcatraz Rock X, it brings leading-edge facial authentication for fast, frictionless entry across critical infrastructure, corporate headquarters, and more. Turnlock Full Height Turnstile on a Mobile Platform with BE Secure and Standard Card Reader: Constructed of heavy-duty aluminum, it’s pre-mounted on a rugged, forklift-ready steel base for flexible deployment at construction sites and other temporary or outdoor applications. The BE Secure overhead system uses real-time measurement with AI to detect when two people try to enter the same compartment with one credential. Built for exterior and interior applications, it enables secure card access while detecting piggybacking and tailgating. Enjoy Happy Hour with Boon Edam experts All GSX attendees are invited to join Boon Edam for Happy Hour on Monday and Tuesday from 2:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. in booth 2633 to meet with product experts, experience live demonstrations, and discuss today's evolving entrance security challenges.

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 recognise this tension in your own organisation. 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 organisation Deploying responsible AI starts by defining where AI can add value to your specific organisation. 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 organisations 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. Organisations 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 organisation’s responsible use of AI technology.

In logistics hubs, production facilities and distribution centres, the access control system is invisible—until it isn't. For decades, the 125 kHz card has been the workhorse of industrial credentialing: inexpensive, reliable and universally understood. It does exactly what it has always done. That consistency has served many organisations well, even as security needs and credential From authentication to smart buildings, gain expert insights about unified access. The same card technology that opened the warehouse gate in 2005 is opening it today. And while operations teams have upgraded conveyors, ERP systems and warehouse management platforms, the front door has often remained on technology selected for an earlier era. Major operational event Why? It is rarely about a lack of awareness. More often, organisations are balancing cost, time and operational risk. In a facility that never stops, a full systemwide upgrade can feel less like a routine project and more like a major operational event. The path forward is continuous modernisation: deploying an agile access layer that adapts to new security requirements and credential technologies over time, rather than replacing everything at once. Universal reader technology makes that possible, without the “Big Bang” shutdown. Why legacy systems can benefit from modernisation The 125 kHz card (also named proximity, prox or low-frequency) helped set a practical standard for convenience and broad compatibility, but many organisations are now evaluating where its security model can be improved by newer options: Increased cryptographic protection. Traditional low-frequency credentials transmit a fixed identifier, which can make them harder to align with today’s expectations for encrypted and dynamic authentication. Increased credential validation. Traditional proximity systems do not provide the kind of mutual authentication or challenge‑response mechanisms that are increasingly common in newer credential platforms. Better protection from duplication/cloning. Because the credential model is comparatively simple, 125 kHz cards present fewer barriers to duplication or cloning than modern encrypted credentials which are inherently designed to better distinguish authorised users from copied identifies. An opportunity to secure the full path. Many legacy deployments also rely on Wiegand communication between reader and controller, creating a strong case for modernisation to encrypted, supervised protocols that help protect credential data in transit. Keeping the interoperability benefit of Prox. Newer open standard provides the same interoperability benefits while addressing improved security. The opportunity for the front door At the same time, security teams face an expanding threat landscape and compliance requirements A traditional access control upgrade is not just a technology swap. It means new readers at every door, new credentials issued to every employee and contractor, platform reconfiguration and installation labor across a facility that cannot afford to stop. Against that backdrop, the rational choice is often to do nothing. At the same time, security teams face an expanding threat landscape and compliance requirements that increasingly demand encrypted credentials. And with Apple Wallet corporate badges and BLE mobile credentials moving into the mainstream, employees and contractors will soon expect to use their phone as their badge, at least as an option if not the primary means of credential presentation. Four specific friction points keep organisations locked in place long after they know they should move. The logistical bottleneck - Replacing a proximity-based system has traditionally meant doing everything at once: new readers, new credentials, new platform configuration, every employee and contractor rebadged before the cutover date. For a site running 24/7 with extensive staff and rotating contractors, that isn’t just an upgrade. It’s a logistical nightmare requiring a hard shutdown. The rebadging event alone, coordinating hundreds or thousands of people through a credential transition on a fixed timeline, can consume weeks of HR and security operations bandwidth. The Credential Soup - Most logistics organisations are not running one clean credential population. They are running three or four: legacy prox for permanent staff, a different format inherited from an acquisition, a contractor badge system managed by a third party, a mobile pilot that never fully rolled out. None of them talk to each other, and no single reader handles all of them. Frozen Infrastructure - Static readers support only the credential formats they shipped with or have limited format support for updates. When a new vulnerability is disclosed or a new mobile standard is released, the hardware has no path to adapt. The only option is physical replacement, which means another capital project, more installation labour, and the same shutdown risk all over again. The Cyber-Physical Gap - IT departments run zero-trust architectures and encrypt everything on the network. Then the same organisation unlocks its server room with a Wiegand-protocol reader transmitting credentials in plain text. The IT security perimeter ends at the network edge. The physical front door is a different conversation entirely, and often nobody's budget. The way forward: Continuous modernisation of access credentials A continuous modernisation plan is both easier and more cost-effective than a one-time “rip-and-replace” event The answer to the Big Bang problem is not a better-planned Big Bang. It is a fundamentally different approach to access infrastructure that treats modernisation as an ongoing capability rather than a one-time event. A continuous modernisation plan is both easier and more cost-effective than a one-time “rip-and-replace” event. It significantly lowers the labour and logistical costs of rebadging the entire organisation at once and eliminates the need for forced downtime entirely. Instead, organisations upgrade incrementally (by site, by department, or as credentials expire), keeping operations running and spreading costs over time. And with future-proof universal reader technology, the reader stops being a fixed asset and becomes a platform that continues to evolve as needs change. Start with a universal infrastructure The foundation of continuous modernisation is a universal reader that can handle whatever credentials are already in the building (legacy proximity, modern smart cards, mobile credentials) while remaining ready for whatever comes next. As access technologies continue to evolve, support for additional credential formats and security approaches can be added through firmware updates rather than hardware replacement, ensuring a secure and future-proof access system. The burden can further be eased by the use of a universal credential that can support existing formats along with new formats, enabling the credentials to work on existing readers as well as new readers. Let old and new credentials coexist Legacy 125 kHz cards continue to function in parallel until the organisation is ready to retire them With a multi-technology reader in place, the rebadging process becomes a rolling transition rather than a synchronised event. New employees get modern credentials from day one. Existing staff transition as badges are renewed or departments are prioritised. Legacy 125 kHz cards continue to function in parallel until the organisation is ready to retire them. Eventually, 125 kHz support or insecure credential support can be switched off, cleanly and deliberately, via a remote firmware update. That means no forced downtime, and no mass confusion at the turnstiles. This applies equally to secure migration to either modern symmetric credentials (such as HID Seos or LEAF) or emerging asymmetric credentials (such as PKOC, Aliro or LEAF Verified). Secure the whole chain, not just the card Upgrading credentials without addressing the communication layer is only half the job. Moving from Wiegand to OSDP Secure Channel (a bidirectional, AES-128 encrypted protocol) closes the replay attack vulnerability and adds tamper detection between reader and controller. Modern credentials and a secure communication layer together protect the entire authentication chain, from the card or smartphone all the way to the access control platform. This becomes critical when the reader is handling the decryption of a secure credential and then communicating to the panel in clear text. OSDP encrypts this last step of communication, while also offering industry best practices for managing reader devices. Choose infrastructure that doesn't choose for you Interoperability is not just a convenience feature. It is a strategic asset Interoperability is not just a convenience feature. It is a strategic asset. A facility running universal reader infrastructure compatible with most transponder technologies and credential formats (physical and mobile) is insulated from vendor lock-in and the next credential transition. Universal readers also act as merger-and-acquisition insurance: when a company acquires a facility running a different badge system or a contractor arrives with an unfamiliar card format, existing readers can be configured to accept the new credentials from day one. As access technologies and credential standards continue to evolve, organisations with adaptable reader infrastructure will absorb that shift as a firmware update. Those without it will face another capital project. A market in motion: beyond legacy credentials Emerging open standards (which reduce vendor dependency) and widely adopted proprietary platforms are both moving the market toward stronger cryptography. These credentials can be delivered on physical smart cards, mobile devices or both. Organisations selecting reader infrastructure today should ensure it is prepared to support this transition without requiring a hardware swap. Several initiatives are gaining significant traction: LEAF Identity: An interoperable credential framework built on strong symmetric encryption, already deployed across a meaningful number of installations and a proven replacement path for legacy proximity systems LEAF Verified: A next‑generation physical access credential platform built on NXP’s MIFARE DUOX that uses public‑key cryptography to eliminate traditional shared key management and enable interoperable, vendor‑neutral access control. PKOC (Public Key Open Credential): An open, vendor-agnostic credential specification from the Physical Security Interoperability Alliance using asymmetric public key cryptography, in which the private key never leaves the device and a derivative of the public key is the credential Aliro: An open mobile-first credential standard released in February 2026 by the Connectivity Standards Alliance (CSA), the organisation behind the Matter smart home standard. Backed by Apple, Google, Samsung, and 220+ industry members providing native wallet, offline device support and mailbox features on top of asymmetric public key cryptography. HID Seos: A widely deployed proprietary credential platform that continues to drive responsible, large-scale secure symmetric-based encrypted deployments across small to enterprise environments for both card and mobile deployment, including wallet. Security that scales The same principles apply equally to a single site or a logistics operator running 5,000 employees The same principles apply equally to a single site or a logistics operator running 5,000 employees across a dozen sites. Because no single cutover date is required, a large organisation can sequence the migration by site, by department or by credential expiry cycle. The operational risk that makes a traditional upgrade unthinkable at scale becomes manageable when the transition is invisible to the people walking through the doors. The pressure to act is reaching a tipping point. Apple Wallet corporate badges and BLE mobile credentials are arriving in earnest in 2026, as well as asymmetric smart card options. These technologies are rapidly moving from isolated pilots into mainstream enterprise deployment across logistics, manufacturing and production environments. Evolve security infrastructure Organisations that have already invested in universal reader and credential infrastructure that is firmware-updateable and mobile-ready will absorb that shift without a second thought. Those that haven't will face another rip-and-replace decision just as the mobile credential wave hits. Organisations that have already invested in universal reader and credential infrastructure Continuous modernisation is not a one-time project. It is a permanent capability: the ability to evolve security infrastructure at the organisation's own pace, without forced downtime, without mass rebadging events, and without being held hostage to the next credential transition. Organisations that build that capability today are not just solving a security problem. They are future-proofing the way their facilities move. Universal access from ELATEC ELATEC's TWN4 universal readers are built on an agnostic design strategy: multi-technology, multi-frequency, and software-configurable, so organisations are not locked into a single credential technology or vendor. Key capabilities across the TWN4 family: Support for 100+ physical and mobile credentials and 60+ transponder technologies RFID, NFC, and BLE in a single reader platform Software-configurable via the ELATEC DevPack: credential formats, encryption settings, and security protocols can be updated remotely without hardware replacement Supports backward and forward compatibility as new standards emerge Available in a range of form factors for door access, desktop enrollment, OEM integration, and industrial applications

For years, physical security and cybersecurity evolved on parallel tracks. One team managed doors, badges and cameras, while the other handled network access, authentication and logical assets. The systems rarely shared information and, in many organisations, they still do not. That separation is becoming harder to defend now that employees move continuously between physical and logical environments throughout the workday. A single person may badge into a building, access cloud applications, reserve workspaces, connect to operational systems and authenticate into sensitive applications within minutes. Disconnected identity systems Yet many organisations still treat each interaction as a separate identity event managed by different systems with different policies and different visibility. Attackers, with the help of AI, are becoming increasingly adept at exploiting those gaps. According to HID’s 2026 State of Security and Identity Report, identity management is now the top strategic priority for security leaders, with 73% identifying it as a trend shaping their security planning. The report also found that managing multiple disconnected identity systems is now the primary operational challenge for more than half of respondents. This shows that identity is becoming the link between physical security, cybersecurity and operational resilience. Fragmented identity creates operational and security risk The growing convergence between physical and logical environments has raised the stakes considerably Many organisations accumulated identity systems over time rather than designing them as a unified architecture. Access control platforms, visitor management systems, HR provisioning tools, multifactor authentication systems and workplace applications were often deployed independently to solve specific operational needs. Individually, these systems may function well. Together, they often create administrative duplication, overhead and blind spots. A terminated contractor may lose network access immediately while retaining physical access to facilities for days. An employee may require multiple credentials to navigate a single workday. Security teams may need to reconcile disconnected logs across several systems during an investigation. These inefficiencies slow response times and increase operational risk. The growing convergence between physical and logical environments has raised the stakes considerably. Modern attacks increasingly target the connections between systems, particularly where identity validation is inconsistent. HID’s research highlights growing concern around AI-driven credential attacks, biometric spoofing and phishing campaigns designed to exploit fragmented identity environments. This is one reason organisations are reevaluating identity management from the ground up. Converged credentials reduce complexity One of the clearest developments in this evolution is the growing adoption of converged credentials One of the clearest developments in this evolution is the growing adoption of converged credentials, where a single trusted identity is used across both physical and logical environments. This allows one credential to securely support access to buildings, workstations, cloud applications and other enterprise systems. The operational advantages are substantial since security teams gain more consistent governance across environments and IT and facilities teams reduce administrative duplication. Organisations simplify onboarding and offboarding workflows while improving auditability and compliance visibility. Users benefit from a more seamless experience that supports how modern workplaces actually operate. Importantly, converged identity strategies also reduce the number of credentials employees must manage. They are no longer forced to manage separate badges, passwords, tokens and access workflows across disconnected systems. That simplification means employees are less likely to seek workarounds. HID’s 2026 State of Security and Identity Report found that 75% of organisations have either deployed or are actively evaluating physical-logical identity convergence solutions. Mobile credentials are changing expectations Mobile credentials are also reshaping how organisations think about identity management. What began primarily as a convenience initiative has matured into a broader security and operational strategy. HID’s research found that 74% of organisations have already deployed or are actively planning to deploy mobile credentials. Security improvement now ranks ahead of convenience as the primary driver for adoption. Mobile credentials support encrypted communication, biometric authentication and real-time credential lifecycle management. Administrators can issue, revoke or update credentials remotely without requiring physical card replacement. Organisations also gain stronger visibility into credential usage and access patterns. Credential lifecycle management Equally important, mobile identity aligns with broader expectations of the workforce Equally important, mobile identity aligns with broader expectations of the workforce. Employees increasingly expect workplace access experiences to mirror the simplicity of consumer technology, whether they are accessing offices, applications or services. The future is unlikely to be entirely mobile, however. Most organisations are expected to maintain hybrid credential environments for the foreseeable future, combining mobile credentials with physical cards and other identity technologies based on operational needs and user requirements. Biometrics expands beyond MFA Biometric technologies are becoming more central to identity strategies across industries. Historically, biometric technologies were primarily deployed for multifactor authentication and to protect highly secure environments. HID’s research shows that organisations are increasingly adopting biometrics as part of core access control and identity verification workflows. This trend is particularly visible in sectors where identity assurance and operational efficiency are both critical. Healthcare organisations are using biometrics to strengthen patient identification, secure sensitive areas and streamline staff authentication workflows. Higher education institutions are exploring biometric-enabled mobile experiences that support campus access, workspace login and digital services. Transportation operators are deploying facial recognition to accelerate passenger processing while improving identity verification. With broader adoption comes greater scrutiny around privacy, transparency and governance. Organisations are paying closer attention to how biometric data are collected, protected and managed. HID’s report found that privacy and ethical concerns surrounding biometrics rose sharply year over year, reinforcing the importance of encryption, secure architecture and privacy-first design approaches. Physical access is now part of cybersecurity As physical and logical systems converge, every access decision carries more weight As physical and logical systems converge, every access decision carries more weight. The credential used at the door may also support workstation login, cloud application access and other enterprise workflows. That makes the integrity of the entire identity chain more important, from the credential and reader to the systems that manage permissions, events and audits. This is where older access infrastructure becomes a real liability. Legacy cards, weak reader-to-controller communication and disconnected credential systems can undermine even a strong cybersecurity program. If an organisation cannot prove who entered a facility, whether the credential was valid and how that event relates to logical access activity, it is working with partial visibility. Common governance model Converged identity helps close that gap by linking physical and logical access under a common governance model. Organisations can apply more consistent policies, reduce credential fragmentation and accelerate investigations. IT gains stronger assurance that the person accessing systems is tied to the same trusted identity used to enter the building. Security teams gain better context when reviewing access events, anomalies or incidents. This does not require an organisation to replace everything at once. The practical path is phased modernisation: moving away from easily cloned cards, strengthening reader and credential security, improving integration with identity systems and choosing architectures that can evolve as requirements change. Identity is becoming core to enterprise infrastructure. It now supports access control, cybersecurity, compliance, workplace experience and operational continuity. Organisations that treat identity as an infrastructure will be better positioned to reduce risk without adding unnecessary friction for users.

Deploying artificial intelligence (AI) tools should be seen as a business initiative rather than a technology initiative, says Martin Soukup, CTO of Solink, a cloud-based video security and data intelligence platform. The approach makes a difference that plays out in practical terms. A technology initiative is tactical and solution-oriented, often solving an isolated problem within a single department's silo. In other words, it might solve just a security problem. In contrast, a business initiative is cross-disciplinary, driven by executive leadership to impact the entire organisation in a measurable way. “Viewing AI tools as a business initiative ensures they adapt to multiple departmental needs and drive high-level strategic growth rather than just fixing a localised technical issue,” says Soukup. AI platform combines video and business systems Demonstrating the value of embracing AI as a business initiative is Solink’s new video intelligence platform Demonstrating the value of embracing AI as a business initiative is Solink’s new video intelligence platform that combines video with business systems to detect threats and send real-time alerts. The capabilities are designed to help security teams operate smarter and more efficiently, supporting the next generation of lean, intelligence-driven security operations centers (SOCs). And benefits of the platform extend beyond security to include other parts of the business. “At the end of the day, video cameras only tell part of the story, much like looking at a 2D shape,” says Soukup. “They capture dimensions and colors, but only from a single perspective, even with powerful AI analysis providing traffic metrics, wait times, product interaction, and compliance logs. The addition of operational data, such as inventory, shipping, labor, and sales data, fills out that shape into 3D, adding critical context.” For example, while a camera simply shows three people standing in a line, and AI data flags that those individuals have been waiting for over five minutes, operational data lets you know also that a cashier has not checked into their shift yet. Combining these data streams gives businesses full situational awareness, turning passive observation into immediate, contextual intervention. AI agents handle repetitive tasks The Solink platform uses AI Agents, which are software that operates autonomously to handle manual, repetitive, or high-volume tasks based on specific instructions and tools. For Solink users, AI Agents unify their existing camera and data source investments into a single automated workflow. “AI Agents transform Solink from a security tool into an operational investment that benefits all departments,” says Soukup. “Modern operational leaders are turning to AI to scale productivity without increasing overhead.” Integrating business intelligence Operations checks compliance, loss prevention investigates theft, and security assesses threats Customers already use Solink to centralise video, integrate business intelligence, and trigger real-world responses like real-world alerts, two-way communication, or smart locks. AI Agents tie these pieces together, analyse the data and identify what matters most, and then take action either without human intervention or with humans in the loop. Businesses currently watch video manually across separate workflows. Operations checks compliance, loss prevention investigates theft, and security assesses threats. However, a human must always watch the footage to get results. Solink AI Agents automate this entire workflow. If an operational event can be seen on camera and matters to the business, a Solink Agent can be integrated to automatically review, assess, and trigger the next step in the workflow across hundreds or thousands of locations simultaneously. Calling all stakeholders to the discussion When discussing applications, stakeholders should include revenue and marketing officers, compliance officers, and line-of-business executives. Agents leverage existing infrastructure by adding an intelligent automation layer that drives efficiency and grows revenue across the entire organisation without large capital investment. Solink AI Agents will not replace employees; they empower lean teams to maximise their existing resources. Job descriptions will shift toward human-in-the-loop workflows where humans and machines collaborate. The AI Agent handles the high volume, filtering out noise and processing data at scale. Human employees set up and guide the Agents, give feedback to improve performance over time, and step in to make final decisions, managing the nuanced situations that require critical thinking, empathy, and deep context. Passive data visualisation In contrast, a Solink AI Agent is deployed with a clear mandate for a specific task, deliverable, or outcome Given the convergence of physical and digital security, AI Agents, not dashboards, are the right unit of enterprise AI deployment. Dashboards typically aggregate data without evaluating the context or importance of the source. Data looks identical whether it comes from 10 sources or 100. In contrast, a Solink AI Agent is deployed with a clear mandate for a specific task, deliverable, or outcome. This approach shifts the focus from passive data visualisation to active intent, creating a direct path of accountability and clear attribution for business results. With dashboards, everyone can see the problem, but nobody owns it. An agent with a mandate either did the job or it did not, and you can audit exactly what it saw and why it acted or did not. Overcoming obstacles to deploy AI agents The primary obstacles to integrating AI Agents into the physical security workflow are change management, building trust, and system interoperability. Physical security requires absolute reliability, which demands rigorous initial configuration to establish trust. Furthermore, Agents are only as effective as the data they can access. Overcoming these hurdles requires comprehensive team training, shifting organisational mindsets, and ensuring seamless integration with existing tools so the Agents have the full context needed to execute tasks accurately and integrate with human workflows seamlessly. Addressing common security challenges Several use cases are driving the deployment of AI Agents among Solink's customers Several use cases are driving the deployment of AI Agents among Solink's customers. Overnight guarding, loss prevention, and store readiness will be the first wave of use cases. These are proven, high-frequency scenarios in which Solink provides pre-built template Agents to address common security challenges out of the box. The second wave of use cases will include highly customisable occupancy tracking, health and safety, and food quality. Pre-built template Agents are coming for these next. In addition, custom, niche operational use cases can be tailored to a specific business environment. Just like hiring a specialised contractor, companies can deploy custom Agents to tackle unique operational challenges rapidly across all locations. Measuring the effectiveness of AI agents The effectiveness of AI Agents can be measured by multiple factors. Core Accuracy, and consistency and accuracy of detections and automated outputs. Business Outcomes delivered, such as reduced inventory loss, reduced fraud, and faster incident resolution. Financial Impact, measured through recovered budget, reduced operational overhead, and increased per-store conversion. There is a perception that AI Agents possess predictive or flawless capabilities, like stopping crime before it happens or operating perfectly in dark, chaotic environments. Not true, says Soukup. AI cannot understand ambiguous requests like "look for suspicious activity." Success requires explicit parameters, tools, and skills, defining what is acceptable, what is unauthorised, and how to handle the gray areas. Another misconception is that Agents need a fundamentally different security model than people. “I run security for this company as well as engineering, and I hold our own Agents to the same standard I would hold a third-party vendor,” says Soukup. “That means least privilege, full audit trails, anomaly detection, random audits, and no action they can't explain after the fact.”

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 organisation.” 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 organisational 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 specialised knowledge globally The combined organisation operates across six continents and more than 75 countries The combined organisation 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 organisation 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 organisations 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 organisation, 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 organisations 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. Recognising 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 organisations 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 customised, 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 specialised 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 standardised 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 organisation 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 emphasised that their solutions can integrate with other industry leaders to fit diverse customer needs.

Genetec Inc., the global pioneer in enterprise physical security software, announces that TEPCO Power Grid has deployed Genetec™ Security Center as the foundation for a next-generation physical security platform that supports its broader digital transformation strategy and scales with its growing operational requirements. The platform will centralise management of more than 30,000 cameras and support future innovation across the TEPCO Power Grid network of 1,600 substations and service centers. TEPCO Power Grid manages and operates the transmission and distribution network that delivers electricity from power plants to homes and businesses across the Tokyo metropolitan area. The company is using advanced technologies to improve operational efficiency, strengthen disaster response, and modernise critical infrastructure. Modernising critical infrastructure As its camera network expanded over the years, TEPCO Power Grid needed a platform capable of supporting large-scale camera management, integrating with image analysis technologies, and expanding access to video across a broader range of devices. After evaluating several options, the company selected Genetec Security Center for its functionality, scalability, proven track record, and customisation capabilities through its software development kit. “The response from users has been very positive, and we're already seeing new ideas emerge for how the system can be used across the organisation. Beyond supporting our current operations, we see an opportunity to leverage accumulated video data alongside AI technologies to support future operational and technology initiatives, and we look forward to continuing our collaboration with Genetec,” said Tomoyuki Soma, Group Manager, System Development General Affairs Group, System Development Center, DX Promotion Department, TEPCO Power Grid. Improving operational efficiency TEPCO Power Grid selected Security Center for its scalability and open architecture. The platforms broad camera support allowed the company to bring together camera models from multiple manufacturers into a unified environment, helping preserve existing hardware investments while giving teams room to evolve. The Security Center software development kit also enables the company to customise the system and integrate additional technologies as requirements evolve. Security Center gives TEPCO Power Grid a unified view of its camera network while allowing teams across the region to support sites in their respective areas. Activities such as adding cameras and updating maps, which were previously managed centrally, can now be performed by individual workplaces, helping improve operational efficiency. Digital transformation strategy Authorised personnel can also use the Security Center web app to view video from computers and mobile devices. During an incident or emergency, managers and field teams can remotely assess the situation and coordinate their response. The platform also helps teams identify camera malfunctions across the network, making it easier to locate and address issues TEPCO’s 1,600 geographically dispersed sites. In addition to video management, the company sees potential opportunities to leverage accumulated video data and integrate emerging technologies as operational requirements evolve. The company is also evaluating additional capabilities available within the Security Center platform as part of its longer-term digital transformation strategy.

In a sector where budgets are always a focus of attention, delivering concrete returns to every investment is crucial. By digitalising access, healthcare premises – whether large hospitals or small clinics – can benefit from day one. They can improve staff and patient safety; quickly implement more efficient, time-saving workflows; and painlessly meet compliance demands. Healthcare sites always present complex access challenges. They must be welcoming, accessible public spaces. They often occupy large, sprawling areas; unfamiliar faces and first-time visitors are around every single day. At the same time, these premises inevitably have valuable and/or sensitive assets, including confidential data and medicines, which must be secured. Patients, doctors, nurses and support staff must feel safe. In labs and treatment suites, restricted materials and valuable equipment need both security and a compliant system for logging every access event. This has always been healthcare’s ‘business-as-usual’: it is a complex environment for any security manager. Meeting compliance demands Modern hospitals and clinics, however, now face an extra level of challenges – and opportunities. Their access system may benefit from integration with fire detection, CCTV and other building solutions, for example. With so many temporary and contract workers employed on-site, access is in constant motion. It needs to be tailored to specific and very different needs and, equally, revoked when any time-limited tasks are complete. In case of a security breach, rapid investigation is essential. Tracing and logging access to specific areas may also be a legal requirement, especially with new NIS2 regulations introduced for critical infrastructure, which demand proactive “hybrid” cyber/physical security frameworks for many healthcare premises. Relying on manual or siloed systems to complete these tasks could eat up hours or even days for security and even medical staff. Happily, there is a better way to work. Digital access devices The solution is access digitalisation. Digital access devices and credentials help to keep every hospital user safe. Unauthorised access is minimised because unapproved key copies rarely circulate and lost credentials are cancelled with a click. Employees and equipment are safer because more access points may be digitally secured. Issuing contractors and temporary staff with digital or even mobile credentials can further simplify the granting, amending and revoking of site access. Security teams waste less time handing out and collecting keys. Intelligent, intuitive software helps facilities managers stay in control even while they are off-site. Logging access to specific assets or areas becomes quick and simple: a few clicks rather than the laborious process of keeping manual logs up to date. “Access is such an important part of any holistic approach to safety,” says David Moser, SVP and Head of Digital Access Solutions at ASSA ABLOY Opening Solutions EMEIA. “Digitalising access immediately puts powerful tools in the hands of hospital management, delivering tangible daily benefits to meet security challenges head-on, improving efficiency and regulatory compliance at the same time.” Implementing digital access “There’s now a device to extend existing systems with digital control at almost any access point, whatever building solution is in place. Alternatively, we can equip customers with whole solutions to implement digital access from scratch, without invasive installation. So many efficiency and security benefits are within reach.” Below are three of many real-life examples which illustrate the ways healthcare premises have benefited from digital access beyond the most obvious security and safety aspects. By choosing ASSA ABLOY’s Aperio® wireless locks, integrated natively with an ARD access management solution, Centre Hospitalier Métropole Savoie (CHMS) could issue access rights tailored to individual staff and contractors and implement real-time control, helping to boost site safety. Because Aperio locks are wireless, the hospital introduced more layers of security without incurring excessive installation or operating costs, including for sensitive offices and drug stores. Access point functionality at CHMS now includes real-time management logs and remote door opening. Real-time management logs For convenience, staff now carry one credential programmed with their individual tailored permissions. “Having just a single badge, and not having to carry around heavy keys, has been a major advantage for us,” explains Béatrice Dequidt, Health Executive at CHMS. “We have implemented internal HR management procedures, creating badges that are automatically integrated into ARD's operating software,” adds Alain Gestin, CHMS’s IT Systems Architect. Aperio and ARD maintain compatibility of credentials with the French government’s electronic Health Professional Card (CPS), for added staff and management convenience. Personalised access permissions Hospital MAZ, in Zaragoza, also implemented a new ASSA ABLOY digital solution, SMARTair®, with real-time access functionality. Their online wireless access management system saves security managers’ time because they can implement all changes via the central system in real time, without needing to waste time walking through the hospital. Staff convenience is further enhanced: they now carry a smartcard programmed with their personalised access permissions. Custom-made cards double as employee IDs, so 625 staff and approximately 100 contractors only need to carry one. Their ASSA ABLOY system is also mobile access ready, making it easy for the hospital to issue and manage mobile keys in the future without hardware changes. “Digitalisation presents opportunities for healthcare organisations of every size and type to improve security while they also reduce costs ‘hidden’ in daily workflows,” explains David Moser. Convenient secure access Managing physical keys can impact nursing care, as pharmacy managers at Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham discovered. An older, mechanical system made it difficult for them to keep track of who held the right key. Searching for that person wasted time. They identified a better solution for convenient secure access to controlled medicines: programmable keys. With their CLIQ programmable key access solution, power to digital and electromechanical locks is supplied by a standard battery inside every key, so no wires are required – making it an ideal retrofit solution for hospital doors, cabinets and mobile drug trolleys. Audit trails for locks and padlocks are available on demand: nurse managers can quickly see who has accessed cabinets or drug trolleys. Key access solution “The message from all nursing staff is that patients are getting medicines much easier and in a more timely fashion,” says Inderjit Singh, Chief Pharmacist at QE Birmingham. “For us, the key return on investment is the quality of service we’re providing.” “Our expertise in access, established over decades, enables us to work with customers to get their access ready for what’s ahead,” adds David Moser. “With ASSA ABLOY, they digitalise with confidence.”

PPLD serves El Paso County across multiple branches — from busy urban libraries to new rural buildings. Its security program, built on systems dating back to the late 1980s, had to keep pace with a fast-growing footprint. “I don’t know that we would have been able to get to the point where we had everything we wanted deployed if we didn’t have tech like this,” said Michael Brantner, Chief Facilities & Security Officer, Pikes Peak Library District. Pikes Peak Library District (PPLD) is one of Colorado Springs’ most-used public institutions, serving the El Paso County community across multiple branches with 780 cameras and more than 150 doors under active monitoring. Their physical security program had been trying to keep pace. Legacy systems dating back to the late 1980s. Cameras and access control systems that didn’t talk to each other. A small team buried under too many alarms. The model was reactive, and it was overdue for a rethink. Legacy security technology The challenge - PPLD’s footprint was growing in a few ways, through new construction and the addition of more rural buildings under its umbrella – and Chief Facilities & Security Officer Michael Brantner needed more visibility across all of the buildings. Combining the systems in place to protect these locations, plus the new ones, required a new approach: bring decades of legacy security technology into a unified, modern operation that could scale alongside the district’s growth. PPLD wanted to centralise the management of the district’s security function, which led Michael to explore the creation of a new security operations center (SOC). “We had a lot of technology that didn’t talk to each other,” Michael said. “We wanted to be able to consolidate it into one place where we can manage what’s happening across our sites.” Consolidate disconnected systems When he started building PPLD’s SOC, the mandate was clear: bring decades of legacy security technology into a unified, modern operation that could scale alongside the district’s growth. But he also needed to consolidate disconnected systems, prove ROI to the C-suite, and staff and train a team that could actually move the program forward. At the time, PPLD’s setup was a patchwork: Cloud-based cameras and access control sitting next to legacy equipment, with no shared view across them Operators who were refreshing screens to see new alarms Panic alerts, door alarms, and intercom calls each requiring a different screen, a different workflow, and a different response Notifications were inconsistent Response times couldn’t be measured No centralised SOC to manage alarms cohesively Residents experiencing homelessness Most incoming alarms generated by PPLD’s ACS were false: held-open doors, cleaning crews, and after-hours trip alarms. But every single alarm still demanded a response from someone on the team, even if there was no safety issue. The complexity was real. PPLD’s branches serve a diverse community that includes families, students, and residents experiencing homelessness across locations with very different security profiles. Some deal with routine access events. Others face behavioural incidents, policy enforcement issues, and higher alarm volumes. Across all of them, public spaces had to stay public, and private staff areas had to stay private. Those boundaries need to be enforced, all day, every day. Access control systems The solution - As Michael stood up PPLD’s new SOC, HiveWatch stood out as a way to centralise the security program and allowed the growing team a single, active view of every incident across every system. The platform connected directly to PPLD’s existing cameras and access control systems. This meant operators were able to view door alarms, access events, video clips, panic alerts, and environmental sensors (including vape and smoke detection) in one single incident list in a web-based browser. Instead of refreshing screens and guessing at what they might have missed, operators could see every active incident and incoming alarm the moment it surfaced and respond from the same place. Killing redundant alerts Alarm deduplication cut volume on day one, killing redundant alerts before they hit an operator. Noisy doors became easy to spot and fix. When specific issues surfaced, like a flood of DHO alarms, for instance, the system helped the SOC adjust alarm timing. That adaptability, tuned to actual door and user behaviour without loosening security, kept the program compliant and cut the alarm load the SOC had to manage. Operators, along with field officers, made use of the mobile app, too. The team’s ability to acknowledge, investigate, and resolve incidents from anywhere in the building was a huge benefit. Security triage stopped being tied to a desk. Response became coordinated, in real time, across every location. Standard operating procedure But the shift went beyond operations. For the first time, PPLD’s leadership had detailed data on its security program: response times, alarm volumes, and incident trends. Michael could walk into a leadership meeting with numbers that proved the program’s value. He could spot which operators were hitting targets, which branches were generating outliers, and where more operator or officer training was needed. “We aren’t just operators staring at cameras anymore. HiveWatch lets us cut through the noise, focus on what matters, and actually expand what our team can do,” said Joe Vickous, SOC Supervisor, Pikes Peak Library District. Single active queue Every shift, PPLD’s operators manage a single active queue. Door forced at a branch. Vape detection in a restroom. Held-open back door after a cleaning crew shift change. An intercom call from a side entrance. All surfaced in one view without screen-refreshing or system-hopping. When an access control alert comes in, the response is immediate. The operator sees the alert with the connected camera feed in the same view, follows the built-in standard operating procedure (SOP), and, if warranted, dispatches the field officer with full context from within the platform. Audible alerts mean the SOC can run HiveWatch in a single tab without sacrificing a full monitor, freeing operators to handle more important work like footage pulls, door testing, and badge creation between incidents. Badge creation between incidents “HiveWatch makes the operators more flexible and makes them more versatile, as well,” Michael said. “They’re able to focus on something else and it will prompt them and say, hey, pay attention. We have to interact. They can check it out, dispatch somebody, and then go back to what they’re doing.” And when something crosses the public-private line, such as a patron drifting into a staff-only corridor, the platform surfaces it in real time. The operator sees it, the field officer responds, and the boundary holds. Public stays public. Private stays private. No guessing. No discovery after the fact. Incidents are caught early, handled according to protocol, and documented with a full record attached. “The biggest benefit for us is having the tool that sorts through the noise and focuses the operators on the notifications that are actually coming in that need attention,” Branter said. Standard operating procedure The results: Median time to acknowledge incidents of 21 seconds and median time to resolve of 28 seconds using HiveWatch. Scaled the SOC from 2 operators to 6 plus a manager, with the platform absorbing the workload increase. Extended the SOC beyond the control room with mobile triage and response for field officers and operators. Equipped leadership with real-time data on acknowledgement and response times, and alarm trends, turning a reactive program into a proactive, measurable one. Positioned the program to absorb 800 additional cameras and access points without proportional headcount growth.

Verkada, a pioneer in physical security and operations, announces that the Miami Dolphins and Hard Rock Stadium adopted its platform to enhance fan safety and security. Hard Rock Stadium's new Verkada deployment unifies video security, access control, guest management, intercoms and alarms into a single, cloud-based platform that enables its team to streamline security operations at the scale and speed that the 65,585-seat venue demands. "As a world-class venue hosting global events year-round, we prioritise solutions that align with the scale and pace of our operations," said Sameer Istafa, Chief Technology Officer for the Miami Dolphins and Hard Rock Stadium. "Verkada's unified platform provides a seamless, connected operating environment that supports our focus on delivering a consistent, elevated experience for our fans at every event." Resource-intensive maintenance costs Verkada's unified platform gives Hard Rock Stadium's team: Faster response during high-pressure moments. Activity-based detection and intelligent alerts provide teams with greater visibility into activity across Hard Rock Stadium, enabling faster, more informed responses when needed. Proactive perimeter coverage. Advanced detection tools enable Hard Rock Stadium to take a proactive approach to monitoring the stadium's exterior and surrounding areas, flagging unusual activity before it escalates. Streamlined access across a large campus. Verkada's cloud-managed access credentials replace physical keys and disconnected badge systems. With all door events logged, Verkada's platform can flag anomalies. Flexibility across a wide range of events. In addition to the Miami Dolphins, Hard Rock Stadium hosts college football games, concerts, and other global events – and each event has a different footprint and different security needs. Verkada enables the Hard Rock Stadium team to tailor protocols event-by-event without new infrastructure. Lower infrastructure costs. Moving onto Verkada's cloud-based platform is expected to save Hard Rock Stadium on time- and resource-intensive maintenance costs, with new features delivered automatically through software updates. Insight into operational efficiency. Visual intelligence from Verkada's platform provides insight into occupancy trends that can enable operations teams to reduce bottlenecks and adjust staffing in real-time. World-class experience "Hard Rock Stadium can swing from hundreds of employees and vendors on a weekday to more than 65,000 fans in a matter of hours," said Filip Kaliszan, co-founder and CEO of Verkada. "Verkada is built to handle this kind of complexity, with one unified platform that keeps pace with an operation that never stays still. We're proud to provide solutions that help keep fans, athletes and entertainers who visit Hard Rock Stadium safe – and to give the team behind these legendary events the tools they need to keep delivering a world-class experience." Video security infrastructure Hard Rock Stadium worked with Castaway Technology and Security (CTS) to support its Verkada deployment and implementation across the campus. CTS used Verkada's Command Connector to bring Hard Rock Stadium's existing video security infrastructure into the new platform during the migration period, ensuring a smooth transition and letting security teams work from Verkada's platform from day one. "Hard Rock Stadium is a marquee venue that demands a security infrastructure to match. Our goal was to help them transition to a more agile and integrated ecosystem. With Verkada, we were able to deliver a truly end-to-end solution that eliminates technical friction, allowing the security team to focus entirely on maintaining a safe, premier experience for every fan," said Craig Bruce, co-founder at CTS.

Genetec Inc., the global pioneer in enterprise physical security software, announces that SoFi Stadium and Hollywood Park have unified their physical security operations using Genetec™ Security Center. Home to the Los Angeles Rams and Los Angeles Chargers, SoFi Stadium is the premier sports and entertainment destination located at Hollywood Park. The stadium has established itself as a world-class venue, hosting record-breaking concerts and global sporting events while consistently ranking among the top venues in the world. Global sporting events To support events of this scale, the organisation standardised on Security Center to unify video surveillance, access control, automatic license plate recognition (ALPR), and other physical security systems in the 3.1 million-square-foot venue and across the 300-acre Hollywood Park development. Operators manage more than 3,000 cameras, 700 readers, and numerous other systems and sensors from three security control rooms, helping teams maintain situational awareness while streamlining day-to-day operations. "Genetec Security Center has improved our response time efficiency by giving us all the information we need in one platform. We’re able to understand what's happening and make decisions quickly," said Nick Bermensolo, Vice President of Security and Safety at SoFi Stadium and Hollywood Park. Physical security systems Since deploying Security Center, the SoFi Stadium IT team has a reliable, scalable, and cybersecure platform that runs on an isolated network and connects back to centralised servers. During big events, they support security operations by monitoring system performance from the Network Operations Center, ensuring everything is working as it should. The security team can easily handle daily tasks, while IT keeps systems running smoothly on the backend. "The Genetec team doesn’t just understand physical security systems, but IT systems too. With their help, we’ve been able to deploy a reliable and high-performing security platform at scale," said Paul Maldonado, Vice President of IT Infrastructure and Operations at SoFi Stadium and Hollywood Park. AI-based tools Looking ahead, both teams are focused on getting more value out of Security Center, exploring AI-based tools and more automation. They know they have a flexible, scalable platform that can support evolving cybersecurity and network requirements. "Genetec has really helped us establish a technology standard. Security Center is reliable and cybersecure, integrates well with our network, and reduces overhead for both IT and security. That’s the type of technology we want to continue implementing across our business," said Maldonado.

Athena Security, a physical security and threat detection company specialising in AI-powered weapons detection systems, announced today they are working with MLK Community Healthcare, a non-profit healthcare system in South L.A., to improve security measures at their hospital. MLK Community Healthcare is utilising Athena’s Apollo 500 Weapons Detection System, an Al-driven walk-through concealed weapon detection system designed for busy entrances, such as those at hospitals and healthcare facilities. “Everyone deserves to feel safe going to work every day. Likewise, patients and their loved ones should feel at ease when seeking care at their local healthcare facility," said Lisa Falzone, Athena Security co-founder and president. Threat detection company Lisa Falzone, Athena Security’s co-founder and president, said the device offers peace of mind to healthcare providers and patients alike at a time when violence in hospitals and other healthcare facilities is rising across the country. “Everyone deserves to feel safe going to work every day. Likewise, patients and their loved ones should feel at ease when seeking care at their local healthcare facility,” Falzone said. “By leveraging our expertise in the security space and utilising emerging technology like AI, we’ve created a weapons detection system platform that is potentially saving lives while creating less disruption in the day-to-day activities at healthcare facilities.” Automated weapon detection systems The move comes ahead of a new AB 2975 California law requiring hospitals and certain other healthcare facilities to have automated weapon detection systems at key entrances. “When it came time to comply with California’s AB 2975 workplace violence prevention requirements and implement a weapons detection solution, we conducted an extensive evaluation of the available systems. Athena’s Apollo 500 Healthcare Weapons Detection System stood out as the best overall value, combining effective weapons detection with the operational capabilities and healthcare-focused workflows our hospital needed,” said Trenton Jackson, Director of Public Safety and Support Services at MLK Community Healthcare. Weapons detection platform “Throughout the installation and testing process, Athena has been a responsive collaborator. They’ve worked with us every step of the way to ensure that the weapons detection platform technology works as it should and integrates smoothly into our hospital operations.” Athena Security’s Apollo 500 Weapons Detection System has already been shown to improve security measures at healthcare facilities. A recent case study at an Illinois-based healthcare system found that Athena’s product successfully detected more than 200 weapons at their hospitals in 2025 alone.

Casinos are tasked with monitoring vast gaming floors, cashier cages, and access points. The market for casino security and surveillance demands software and hardware that provide high-definition, multi-angle visual coverage to ensure the integrity of the games and to protect players, staff, and the public. Like other vertical markets for physical security technology, the casino market is undergoing change and facing challenges. We asked our Expert Panel Roundtable: How are new technologies impacting the casino surveillance and security market?

Like other disciplines in the world of corporate security, executive protection is evolving from reactive to proactive. Unlike reactive bodyguards, modern executive protection professionals use a proactive approach focused on risk mitigation, advance planning, and threat intelligence to prevent incidents before they happen. What is the role of technology? We asked our Expert Panel Roundtable: How can physical security technology promote better executive protection?

If AI is the dominant buzzword in the physical security industry, it is the second letter (I for intelligence) that is having the biggest impact. Simply put, intelligence transforms computer systems, including those used for physical security, from rigid, rule-following calculators into adaptable, problem-solving partners to human operators. We asked our Expert Panel Roundtable: What is the changing role of intelligence in physical security?