By Cyril Kasembeli
Security is one of the fundamental needs for any business. This can be physical security like guards stationed at the gate and doors of premises, or the use of technology to enhance security.
The growth of digital technology has led to the development of sophisticated security systems that can detect and deter threats in real time.
It should be noted that the role of security guards, too, has evolved in this era of technology, as they are now trained to use technology such as access control systems and alarm systems to monitor and respond to potential security threats.
Technology has also improved the accuracy of security systems through applications such as facial recognition to access buildings and to accurately identify criminals as well as use of biometrics to control access to buildings. This is where security systems come into play. Here are four vital ones that businesses should install.
Biometric access control system
This is a digital entry system that controls access to your business premises and even to some of the departments in your office using biometrics technologies. It controls access by identifying individuals through facial, fingerprint or palm recognition. The biometric scanner captures the biometrics and matches the scans against a saved database to approve or deny access to the premises. This type of security system safeguards entry to office buildings by only granting access to authorized personnel and denying access to unauthorized personnel thereby guaranteeing security.
Commercial alarm systems
These are a form of security systems that notifies the security personnel in case of a breach or theft. Setting up alarm systems that are embedded with sensors help protect your business premises against break-ins. The alarm is triggered when sensors are activated which transmits the information to an external alarm monitoring centre or to the business owner allowing you to take necessary action. These alarms can be directly connected to electromagnetic doors or other door security systems.
Alarm systems not only provide your business with security but also help in alerting you when there is an emergency in your building such as fire.
Video surveillance and security camera systems
Mounting security cameras or closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras enables you to monitor the ongoing activities on your property. These video surveillance systems assist security teams (either onsite or remote) to see what is happening in or outside a property. The installation of these camera systems and alerting the public of their presence aids in deterring crime from happening since it alerts the potential criminals of the possibility of being seen or recognised when they commit a crime. They also help in gathering evidence in case a crime has been committed, making it a need to have a security system for both small and big businesses.
Cyber security systems
Technology has become part of the day to day running of businesses. Businesses are using technology to share, receive and store information. Some of this information is extremely sensitive or confidential thereby creating a need for protection of both personal and business computers and servers that store this information from malicious attacks. Cyber security is the protection of internet-connected systems such as hardware, software, and data from cyberthreats. This is done to protect against unauthorized access to data centres and other computerized systems.
Cyber security systems protect proprietary information and data, and they often include anti-virus software, data encryption, website traffic monitoring, and firewall protection. Valuation and penetration test, security assessment, personal security training and awareness can help you protect your business from cyberattacks.
A reliable and effective business security system increases overall security, deters theft, improves employee accountability, and protects business owners from false liability claims. For many businesses, a best-in-class security system is essential to keep a high standard of safety and operational integrity.
Many business security providers offer consultations (before installation) to help clients decide which equipment will best serve their business security needs in the most cost-effective manner.
Writer is lead engineer at SGA Security
