A business is always at risk of people attempting to take advantage of them. Whether those threats are physical burglary/theft or online attacks, a business needs to ensure that it has appropriate protections in place. Like many aspects of life, security is taking advantage of smart technology.
Smart business security is just as robust as fences, gates and security guards. What makes smart security a bit different is the way in which the security force is deployed. Smart security can protect physical space and digital space. Where it really shows its innovation is in the in-between state. For instance, in-house servers are both physically vulnerable and digitally vulnerable. This is where smart business security really works.
How Does Smart Business Security Work?
Physically vulnerable spaces include office space, office equipment and inventory. Smart security systems also protect stock and even staff. Protecting vulnerabilities is done by using:
- High Definition and Night-vision Enabled Security Cameras
- Sensors
- Mobile Alerts
- Remote Access Control
- Automatic Locks
- Keyless Entry
The smartest aspect of these security systems is the way all of this information is integrated. Security managers, supervisors or other high-level staff are able to monitor feeds, respond to alerts and log the entry and exit of personnel through a customized dashboard. This can be done on a laptop, desktop and even mobile device.
In short, smart business security works by identifying points of entry, creating a secure network of entry points and then monitoring the network using a single access point. Locks, cameras and sensors communicate via the network, keeping security personnel aware of current or emerging threats. This works on the physical level. Protecting the network requires another set of smart strategies.
Digitally vulnerable spaces are protected using digital technologies. Digitally vulnerable spaces include in-house servers, internet of things devices and user-facing technologies like email and shared files. In addition, digital infrastructure like video-conferencing technology can also present vulnerabilities. This might seem overwhelming. All of these technological advances also act as hosts for cyber attacks. Fortunately, smart security systems employ the following tools to prevent cyber breaches:
- Unified Networks
- Threat Detection Software
- Consistent Monitoring
- "Baked In" Security for IOT devices
The key element is unifying all aspects of a smart business security system. The tighter your system, then the easier it is for security personnel and IT to flag a threat. When companies start to use separate strategies or if they fail to establish a security protocol, then breaches happen. Smart business security requires tools, strategy and rules. Key decision-makers must institute a unified policy and then create a unified security network that is built with business goals and security in mind.
Benefits of Smart Business Security
Aside from the obvious benefit of improved security, smart business security is flexible, adaptable and scalable. It secures your physical work space from end-to-end from both cyber and real-world threats.
- Flexible - Smart business security tools are designed to integrate real-world security with cyber security. This flexibility makes smart systems essential to businesses that operate in both spaces. By combining digital live feeds with secure mobile-viewing, physical properties are protected alongside valuable digital information.
- Adaptable - Cyber threats evolve. You need a security system that is smart enough to evolve alongside threats. Not all businesses can hire full-time cyber specialists. Smart security systems fill the gap. Smart security systems feature automatic updates and are often backed by hosted services. These services include updates, patches, alerts and monitoring.
- Scalable - Retail environments often require a greater level of security during the holiday season. Hospitality environments often require a greater level of security during the summer months. Office environments might see staff increases or reductions. In addition, lay-offs and retirements might require quick security adjustments. Whatever the situation, smart security scales to what is needed in a simple and affordable way.
To sum up, smart security keeps businesses safe by integrating physical security measures with cyber security measures. Your business lives in both spaces. So should your security system.
