If you are responsible for security in your business you need to know about these latest technology trends. Especially if you are going to install security systems on a new site, you want to know you are investing in up-to-date technology.

Web-based Security Management Systems

This is a new form of electronic access control. Traditional electronic systems use local networks and dedicated servers, web- based systems manage security over an internet connection. This has the benefit of keeping costs low, without the need for expensive servers. The simple network appliance can be configured within minutes, which in comparison to the hours that it takes a traditional system to be set up, is a major advantage. Web-based security management systems are therefore becoming increasingly popular with small, remote and temporary sites.

Another benefit of web-based security management systems, is that they can be monitored remotely on any computer or device. They can also be simply integrated with other web-based security systems such as IP cameras, making web-based security management systems the most future proof system currently available on the market.

Video Surveillance as a Service (VSaaS)

This is a service that allows businesses to store and manage surveillance footage on a service provider’s secure data centre. Popular users of these services are retail stores, small businesses, restaurants and residential buildings just to name a few.

The user is able to view surveillance footage from anywhere using any computer, mobile or tablet. The major advantage to this, is footage is not lost due to damage or theft, as the footage is stored at the service provider’s highly secure data centre.

The service provide will also take responsibility for systems maintenance and software updates, which reduces costs and reduces risk versus traditional video surveillance with users forgetting to update network security software.

Surveillance Video Analytics and People Counting Technology

Video analytics is software that is able to conduct smart analysis of surveillance systems in various ways. Video analytics can identify and notify when a person enters an unauthorised area, a perimeter breach, high-risk zones or around valuable assets. This allows the security system to send an immediate alert, ensuring a rapid response. Incidents can be bookmarked, to allow easy retrieval when reviewing surveillance footage. This technology decreases the labour required.

People counting is a great tool for retail, to analyse customer volume and behaviour. Identifying areas of its store that attracts high customer interest can allow companies to adjust business practices to accommodate customer behaviours to maximise business performance.

Wireless Access Control

In wireless access controlled systems, data is sent to the system control panels via a wireless radio signal. This is in comparison to traditional electronic access control systems, which transmit signals via wires. A wireless system therefore significantly reduces labour installation costs and can easily be added to at a later date. Many would assume that you must stick with the system that was installed during building construction stage, but with a wireless system they are easily retrofitted with no structural limitations.

In a wireless access control system, the locks are powered by long-life ion batteries, the system is updated when battery power is low. In the event that batteries are not replaced before they die, the lock remains locked until the battery is replaced.

Global Security Data Visualisation Platforms

Businesses that have different locations across the globe are creating, what has been labelled ‘visual command centres’ for their regional security operations centres. These centres allow businesses to see a complete security situation, including incidents and imminent threats in any location. All cameras can be viewed, floor plans, road traffic and even weather systems.

This means that security responses can be coordinated globally and the security data can be analysed to more effectively understand security threats. Security threats are not just limited to break-ins, they can include dealing with extreme weather such as flooding.

Thorne Access and Security has been in the security industry for over a decade. Based in the North of England, it has built up a loyal customer base owing to their ‘small enough to care but big enough to deliver’ attitude. Thorne has designed bespoke security systems to suit client specific electronic security needs, clients span from premier league football clubs, health spas to smaller locations.

Thorne’s dedicated service engineers are available 24 hours a day to its contract holders. The security firm ensures it only uses industry leading brands and the latest technology to implement state of the art security systems.

For more information about Thorne Access and Security’s services visit www.thorne.uk.com