Maintenance of security levels CCTV Cameras

Maintenance of security levels at Construction sites through CCTV Cameras! 

There is no sense in denying what is apparent, but a construction site is an area that has constant traffic all day long and sometimes during the night as well. Most managers are often forced to increase productivity levels at the site to meet the requirements of the building owners.

However while completing the construction job on time might be an excellent idea, keeping track of all the activities that occur at the site often provides to be challenging task especially for project managers.

More so, security companies often find it difficult to come up with genuine evidence to back criminal offenses that may occur at the given construction site. With the advent of special technological contrivances such as CCTV security system, managing a construction site has become that much more simple.

See average Number of Security Cameras below:

Project Type	Average Number of Security Cameras
Small Residential Project	4-8
Medium Residential Project	8-16
Large Residential Project	16-32
Small Commercial Project	8-16
Medium Commercial Project	16-32
Large Commercial Project	32-64
Industrial Site	32-64
Infrastructure Development	64+

Benefits of Installing CCTV Systems:-

1. Monitor construction workers

One important benefit of installing CCTV systems at the construction site is that it allows the project managers to have a better view of the employees` activities. To be specific, the construction site is often a beehive of activity, which can sometimes pose a challenge for managers who are supposed to account for everything.

In the past, the managers would have to rely on unreliable reports from their subordinates or perhaps spend hours going around the entire site to determine the worker’s activities. This was a highly unreliable method, and CCTV cameras provide a better solution for such a complication.

In fact, construction managers can monitor their employees work rate levels by watching recorded or the live footage that is relayed by the cameras.

2. Evaluating the site

Besides that, another important benefit of installing these types of cameras at the constructions site is that it provides the managers with a better option for viewing the progress of the entire site. It’s important to note that CCTV footage along with individual devices such as drones are often used to determine the progress of a given construction project. Managing the site is highly important since it allows the managers to determine whether additional resources such as skilled labor or resources are needed to complete the project.

While the manager might still have to visit the site for first-hand observation, the CCTV cameras are also convenient since they provide footage of how the events at the site have been unfolding.

3. Determining resource usage

More importantly, the CCTV systems can also be used to determine the level of resource usage at the construction site. This is because the level of activity at the site of often so high such that the construction manager cannot be able to account for resource usage at the scene fully. Some of the resources that need monitoring include cement, hardware tools and employee gear amongst many others.

With this types of systems, the manager can easily determine where any inconsistencies or perhaps where there was any illegal activity occurring at the site and therefore deal with it as soon as possible. As a result, the manager is better at accounting for resource usage or perhaps identifying any project setbacks on time.

4. Help improve security at the site

One of the biggest hindrances that most constructions projects face is the maintenance of security levels at the site, especially when no one is watching or perhaps when the site has been dormant for a while. For security companies, the footage can be used to determine any inconsistencies or perhaps any illegal activities that may be taking part at the site.

The footage always provides an excellent perspective when it comes to settling security complications in criminal cases. By installing CCTV security systems at the scene, construction managers can determine any form of illegal activities or perhaps the theft of costly resources that are used for the completion of construction projects.

While the presence of security cameras is often enough to deter the vast majority of would-be thieves and vandals, you will have access to the video evidence required for successful prosecution should trespassers ever infiltrate your site. Not only are CCTV cameras more cost-effective security solution than man guarding, but you can also access live footage around the clock remotely via the internet should you ever wish to.

Given all these points, when it comes to managing an entire construction project, there is barely any space for poor decision making or perhaps insufficient improvisation. It’s imperative that you take the time to make an informed decision for the development of your project and this often includes settling for the superior benefits of CCTV systems. Although these types of security systems might cost a significant amount to install, they are crucial towards the completion of the entire project are therefore a feasible investment for any given construction project.

Below you'll find a range of security cameras for construction sites with different features. It's also possible to purchase a combination of cameras to suit different construction site needs.

Camera Model	Description	Benefits for Site Manager/Construction Company Owner
XYZ Construction	High-definition camera with night vision	1. Enhanced site security, deterring theft and vandalism. 2. Improved safety monitoring to prevent accidents and ensure compliance. 3. Remote access for real-time monitoring and peace of mind.
Site Secure Pro	Robust weatherproof camera with wide-angle	1. Extensive coverage to monitor the entire construction site. 2. Quick and accurate identification of unauthorized access or safety breaches. 3. Effective risk management and reduced liability for the company.
Construction Eye	360-degree panoramic camera	1. Comprehensive view to monitor multiple areas simultaneously. 2. Simplified installation and reduced need for multiple cameras. 3. Increased efficiency and productivity by minimizing blind spots.
Heavy Guard	Vandal-proof camera with advanced motion	1. Durable and tamper-resistant, ensuring continuous surveillance. 2. Improved project management and reduced losses due to theft. 3. Quick detection and response to potential safety or security incidents.
Watch Mega	Ultra-high-resolution camera for detailed	1. Clear and detailed footage for accurate incident investigations. 2. Improved monitoring of construction progress and worker activities. 3. Advanced analytics for data-driven decision-making and process optimization.

Sliding Gates vs Swinging Gates

Sliding Gates vs Swinging Gates 

Gates add value and security to your property. They’re also your main control for access to who goes in and out and serve as a point of entry to your home, business, and land.

The first electric gates were invented in 1881, and the benefits of the automated gates have also evolved, catering the needs of each generation of homeowners and business owners to increase the security and the convenience of opening and closing an entry point structure. Automatic gate systems use electric motors to open and close gates through the use of a transmitter.

When it comes to perimeter defences, the first thing that will likely jump to mind is the image of a security gate, and rightly so. Security gates are often the first line of defence for many businesses when it comes to keeping intruders away, establishing a strong perimeter, and sending out a message to criminals.

However, when planning defences for a site, or considering upgrading your existing measures, it’s important to think carefully about your needs and your site capabilities. Let’s take a look at two of the most popular options of gates and how they compare.

Swinging Gates

Swinging Gates are an excellent option for many businesses. As the name suggests they swing open and shut in a wide arc. Often priced cheaper than sliding gates, they typically don’t include motors or electronics. Swinging gates don’t require concrete work or steel beams, they are low maintenance and make little noise during operation. This means that they are well-suited to isolated or rural sites, or large expansive sites where access to the grid is more limited.

If considering swinging gates as a solution for your site, you should think carefully about the available space on your premises. Swinging gates need enough space to open internally and externally in a wide arc and so might not be suitable for some sites where space is at a premium. They might also be less suited if you have particular needs for high-tech upgrades such as access control equipment or other electronic support.

Sliding Gates

If you are looking for gates at a site where space is less readily available then sliding gates may be a more sensible solution. Rather than opening and closing in an arc, sliding gates slide in and out along a track or trackless cantilever system, which both employ less of a footprint.

Sliding gates are often seen in more commercially-led settings, entrances, and residential driveways. They can be employed on rough ground and even on sloping ground if required. They are a good choice if you operate in a setting that has high-wind speeds and other unpredictable weather factors.

Unlike swing gates, sliding gates can be upgraded with access control equipment such as electronic keys, cards, fingerprint biometric readers and intercoms. These additions will always make a site more secure, however, they do come with added costs.

Confuse as to what type of gate to choose? You might wanna consider these insights.

The main advantages of sliding gates are:
• They aren’t affected by wind
• They don’t take up space on your driveway when opening and closing
• The gate can slide from the left or the right, depending on where you have space
• If you don’t have the space required, there are other types of sliding gates, such as telescopic sliding gates or bi-parting sliding gates, that take up less space.

The advantages of double swing gates:
• A double swing gate takes up less area when in operation
• They are less affected by wind
• As the weight is distributed between two gates, there is less stress on the swing gate motor, posts, and hinges.

The advantages of single swing gates:
• There are only one gate and one set of hardware to automate it, so you’re up for less installation and maintenance (assuming you purchase quality parts, as the load on all parts will be greater).

General swing gate fitting information:

• With swing gates, there are two options as to where to install the hinge. You can install the swing gate opener on the sides of your posts parallel to each other facing inwards, or on the side that faces into your property. If you do the latter, the fixings are hidden by the posts and the swing gates take up less space. 
• If your driveway slopes up from the road and there’s no room for a sliding gate, you can install a swing gate that opens outward. Just make sure it doesn’t interfere with public spaces.

Get in touch

Arranging effective perimeter security is not something that you should go at alone. No matter the size or nature of your business, we can provide you with a free, no-obligation quotation and feasibility survey to assess the security requirements of your organisation. For more information on any of the security options above, or for further advice on how to protect your business premises from criminals, please contact us here or Email us on ssaintegrate@gmail.com

Security Integration management systems

Security Integration Management Systems 

Security systems are changing at an ever-increasing pace and are becoming standard Information Technology (IT) products running over a Local Area Network (LAN) or Wide Area Network (WAN). As a result of using standard protocols such as Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCP/IP), the manufacturers to develop new generations of integrated systems. These systems are called System Integration as they bring together the management of all aspects of an organisation’s security. In recent years, the market for security equipment has realized the immense merits of integrating different components in a security system. However, true integration may be offered by all the manufacturers in the field today. A truly integrated security system combines the various components and yet they are all part of a more sophisticated and bigger system.

Some people use the term 'integrated' to describe a multiplexer combining full screen and multi screen images. Or a control desk containing an integrated intruder alarm PC, an integrated fence alarm PC and an integrated CCTV PC sitting next to one another. This is not true integration.

It is possible to integrate components like a public address system, CCTV, fence alarms, intruder alarms, fire alarms (life safety) and access control system within a single system. The system can be multi-station networks or even a single PC. All these components should interact with one another as a single entity. For example, whenever the fire alarm gets activated, the screen of the Visual Display Unit should pop up a new text window where detailed instruction should be given on what to do next. Simultaneously, the integrated system may release the doors meant for fire exit and display those CCTV cameras, through which the operator can view the affected area so that the operator in question can engage in a communication with the other staff and do not have to take the help of any public address system.

It is not always necessary to purchase all of the components of a system from one supplier. Manufacturers of Security Management Systems realise that the customer wants choice and will often link to components from other specialist manufacturers. Many manufacturers provide integration modules and protocols such as BACnet and OPC, and data integration methodologies such as eXtensible Markup Language (XML), ActiveX and others, which can in theory link to almost any business system. You will need to talk to individual suppliers to discover what development tools such as Software Development Kits (SDK) and Application Programming Interfaces (API) are available for integrating systems. Yes, the system should be able to function with the help of a battery backup though the duration of this backup time may vary according to the type of panels used within it. In my experience this has not been an issue, but some manufacturers are very cautious to whom they release this information. If you are a competitor it is almost impossible.

Even when protocol has been received 90% of the time it is either incorrect, incomplete or even misleading! It is essential to test product before installation, I know it is an old fashioned idea but it is really nice to see the system actually working.

Opportunities of System integration

There are a number of advantages to be gained in both the security and commercial aspects of designing and adopting an integrated system. This section lists some of the advantages that may be considered when combining separate systems into an integrated solution.

Access Control Systems (ACS)

Access Control is typically specified to provide protection to both property and employees. Generally it is thought of in terms of managing doors. However, it often extends to public areas when coupled with turnstiles, gates and barriers, or highly sensitive areas when coupled with biometrics.  If the access control and intruder alarm systems are linked together, the access control system can be programmed to automatically change, based on the type of alarm that sounds. By integrating Access Control with other systems many advantages may be realized. For example:

• Fire Alarm mustering – know where your employees are at a given time.

• Know which doors / areas employees are entering, or trying to enter.

• Link CCTV images with access control events.

• Link Time & Attendance monitoring using the same badge / token software.

• Link Visitor Monitoring with Access Control & CCTV using badge / token software.

• Increase security through systems such as dual card access or access using a biometric technology.

• Intruder & Hold up alarm system control functions can be managed by the Access Control system.

Logical Security

Logical access control is the brother of physical access control but is often limited to secure PC logon. Integrating these two elements can significantly increase your security. For instance, you can restrict PC access to only those who have a smart card and use this to logon to your IT network. Alternatively, you can inhibit network logon if the person is not in the building, further enhancing your security.

One example is to use the CCTV system and access system to monitor and lock doors during a denial of service (DOS) attack at the same time as sending a message to the security guards. Quite often physical and logical attacks go hand in hand.

Time & Attendance (TA) monitoring

The same badge/token used to identify a person in Access Control can register them on and off work with Time & Attendance monitoring. Also as more integrated software systems become available, use of the same software to handle Access Control, Time & Attendance and Visitor Monitoring can be achieved. Remember however, that just because a person went through an Access Control door does not mean they are registered for work, especially under Working Time Directive (WTD) rules. You will need separate T&A clocking stations, albeit on the same network, to monitor working hours and software to calculate employee hours, monitor absences and WTD hours and infringements.

Human Resources (HR) / Payroll

Why enter data twice? When a new employee joins a company his personnel details are often entered into both the appropriate HR system and then again into the security system. By integrating these two systems, a subset of the employee data can automatically be transferred into the Access Control System when an employee joins. Alternatively, when an employee leaves, his rights can be automatically deleted from the Access Control System, again reducing effort and increasing security.

CCTV Systems

By integrating CCTV and other systems such as Access Control, the benefits of more than one system can be coupled to provide a more efficient and usable solution for the end user. IP camera can be integrated with Motion Sensor not only that If IP camera has I/O port you can integrate with other systems like, Hooter, Auto dialer etc. Through Video management intelligent Software you can get face reorganization, license plate reorganization etc.  For example:

• Live camera views can be integrated with the Access Control Software, equally Access Control or other data can be integrated with the CCTV system.

• Access Control and other security detection systems can initiate pre and post-event video recording, linking the video recording with the event information. This makes searching for events on the DVR/NVR more effective as only the event needs to be searched, for example ‘Door forced – Stores Door’ or ‘Zone 1 – Perimeter breached.’

• Track individuals and record their access details against the recording to track suspect users or stolen card users.

• Initiate camera presets when specific pre-determined events occur, e.g. when entering a room in a bank, switch the camera to zoom into the door to identify the individual.

• Use CCTV with Time & Attendance system to detect / eradicate ‘buddy-clocking’, a practice where employees clock each other on and off work.

Intruder Alarms Systems (IAS)

By integrating intruder with other systems, the benefits of more than one system can be coupled to provide a more efficient and usable solution for the end user. For example:

• Set / unset the intruder system using an access reader. No need to use the intruder keypad.

• No entry delay time if main door forced. The entry timer is bypassed thus providing an instant alarm.

• Disabling of access readers when the intruder system is in the armed state, to prevent false alarms due to unauthorised entry into an armed area.

• Using an occupancy count from another system, the Intruder & Hold Up Alarm system can be notified that there may be persons present in the building when the system is being set.

External Perimeter Detection

One of the fundamental objectives of a security system is to provide protection at the outermost perimeter of a property. A perimeter intruder detection system can be used, linked with CCTV to provide early warnings and increased security through verification in the event of a breach. For example, external doors could be automatically locked if the perimeter system detects an abnormal event.

Fire Detection & Alarm Systems

Fire protection / Detection systems have traditionally been isolated from other building management and security systems. By integrating fire with other systems, the benefits of more than one system can be coupled to provide a more efficient and usable solution for the end user. For example:

• In the event of a fire all emergency exit doors on the fire escape route need to be automatically released from an electrical point of view, but physical quick release locks may be in place to maintain security and still allow people to escape. It is common practice to install a relay in series with the electric locking mechanism controlled by the fire panel. An alternative is to feed a fire input into the Access Control System, which then automatically releases the appropriate electric locking mechanisms. The proposed link between the Access Control System and the fire system should be evaluated as part of the fire risk assessment.

• In addition to providing hardware control during a fire situation, it may be necessary to provide a ‘roll call’ or ‘muster’ report to list all people in the building at the time of the fire alarm.

PA system (PAS)

In general IP paging and intercom systems are used to direct people in emergencies, control doors and control other situations such as crowd control. However, integrating such systems with others leaves the door open to new uses and can push a technology to its full potential. For example, integrating a campus’ PA system with security systems such as video surveillance could give campus security operators more control over emergency communication. Paging can be integrated with IP camera systems. Small amplifiers are used to power speakers that can be used with the cameras.

It is also important that the video management software (VMS) supports the audio. Some VMS will provide an alert if they detect a button activation from the IP camera. The VMS then allows the security person to see what is happening and then talk to the person near the IP camera.

The Digital Acoustic intercom system is independent of the VMS and uses its own Windows paging software. In this case, the security person can receive an alert from an intercom and be notified on their Windows computer. The software also allows the security person to view a nearby IP camera. This is not quite as integrated as the first method, but can provide additional security.

PA Controller should be integrate with Fire Detection system, in case of fire PA system automatic start announcement to evac said area.

Visitor Management Systems (VMS)

For many companies and organizations, a manual paper-based VMS will suffice, providing visual identity of visitors. However, computerized systems linked to Access Control and Time & Attendance systems are the natural bedfellows for integrated security systems. These not only print ID passes, but can also incorporate biometric identification and the scanning of visitor/contractor documentation, licenses, certificates and insurance certificates.

Lift Control

By integrating lift control with the access control system, access to certain floors in a building may be

Restricted, particularly outside normal working hours or in multi-tenanted buildings. To monitor of lift you can fix CCTV Camera which is integrate with Access Control.

Car Park Management (CPM)

Where access to a car park is restricted, the ISMS can automatically monitor the number of spaces left for each tenant or department and regulate access accordingly. For example:

• Visually through CCTV.

• Audibly through an intercom system.

• Automatic number plate recognition.

• Access Control tokens.

Guard Tour System (GTS)

By using a guard tour package that integrates with the access door readers can be used to define and monitor a tour by a specific guard, providing a real time indication if the guard does not reach a set point in time (or even if he arrives too early) – equally integration with the CCTV system can provide visual verification of the guard’s location and wellbeing. Many Time & Attendance systems incorporate Guard tour functions as part of their software package.

Building Management Systems (BMS)

Building management systems are responsible for monitoring and controlling the environment of a building, for example lighting control, heating and ventilation (HVAC). In the current climate of energy saving, why leave lights on when an area is unoccupied? By integrating Access Control Systems with BMS systems, the lighting can be automatically controlled by recording when people access an area. The system can also be configured to control the heating by reducing the room temperature when no one is present rather than leaving it on all day and off at night.

Electronic Point of Sale (EPOS)

The logic of integrating security systems together is evident, however if information from systems such as EPOS can be interfaced then a powerful security solution for applications in the retail market and casinos can be deployed.

Data sent from an EPOS system can be overlaid on a live video display, allowing operators to view the camera feed and till transaction simultaneously. The transaction information and alarms enerated by the EPOS system can be bookmarked and recorded alongside the video. This facilitates visual identification of an incident in both real time and through post-event analysis. Powerful transaction analysis can be undertaken on the stored data, for example, finding out when a particular credit card was used by searching every till in a store or across all stores from the head office.

Conversely, recorded video can be searched using a thumbnail feature, which displays a video still image for every transaction, allowing the operator to quickly identify the relevant footage. Evidential quality video clips and associated transaction data can be exported for investigation or use in court.

Alarms generated by the EPOS system, such as ‘register drawer left open’, ‘refund’, or ‘large dollar amount’ can automatically trigger a number of events, including displaying the nearest camera to the specific till and pinpointing the alarm on an interactive map.

Difference Between CCTV and Surveillance Cameras?

When it comes to matters of security, there is a great deal of misunderstanding regarding the distinction between closed-circuit television and surveillance cameras. In spite of the fact that many people use these phrases synonymously, there is a significant difference between the two.

In this article, we will go over the key distinctions between closed-circuit television (CCTV) systems and surveillance cameras, and then we will assist you in selecting the system that is most suited to meet your requirements and how to Select The Right CCTV System.

What Is CCTV?

A CCTV system consists of a number of cameras to record activity, a digital video recorder (DVR) to store footage, and a monitor to view the recordings. You can also add security features like motion detectors and alarms.

Most people install CCTV systems for security purposes. They deter burglars and can help identify criminals after the fact. But they have other uses too. For example, you can use them to keep an eye on employees or children.

CCTV systems come in all shapes and sizes. They can be as simple as a single camera connected to a DVR, or they can be more complex with multiple cameras, different types of storage, and remote viewing capabilities. The type of system you need depends on your specific needs.

Installing a CCTV system can be a great way to improve security at your home or business. But it’s important to make sure you understand all the ins and outs before making any decisions.

What Is A Security Camera?

The word “security camera” is often used, although many people have no idea what they are. Monitoring and recording activity in a certain area is the primary function of security cameras.

They’re commonly found in public locations like shops, banks, and other establishments of a commercial nature. The usage of security cameras to discourage criminals and safeguard families is becoming more common.

There are a wide variety of security cameras to choose from. Small enough to fit in your hand, yet with a wide range of size options.

The region you want to keep an eye on will dictate the kind of camera you require. In order to watch your front entrance, you’ll need a different kind of camera than you’ll need to monitor your backyard, for instance.

Wireless and wired security cameras are available. A cable connects a wired camera to a recorder, such as a DVR. Wi-Fi is a common method of transmitting footage from wireless cameras.

Wireless cameras are preferred by many people since they are easy to set up and can be put anywhere in your house or company.

Analog and digital security cameras are two of the most common varieties. Analog cameras record footage using an analogue signal. Unlike digital cameras, this sort of camera is older and less prevalent.

What is The Main Differences Between CCTV and Security Camera

CCTV cameras, or closed-circuit television cameras, are a type of security camera that is typically used in public places in order to deter crime.

Security cameras, on the other hand, can be used in both public and private settings and are often used in homes in order to provide extra security. Here are five main differences between CCTV cameras and security cameras:

-CCTV cameras typically have a wider field of view than security cameras.

-CCTV cameras are usually mounted on ceilings or high up on walls, while security cameras can be placed anywhere that provides an adequate view.

-CCTV footage is usually monitored by security personnel in a separate location, while many home security systems allow users to monitor their own footage remotely.

-CCTV cameras typically record footage continuously, while security cameras can be set to record only when motion is detected.

-CCTV cameras are usually larger and more noticeable than security cameras.

Both CCTV cameras and security cameras serve an important purpose in terms of security. It’s important to choose the right type of camera for your needs in order to ensure that you’re getting the most out of your investment.

Comparison Table Between CCTV and Security Camera

CCTV	Security Camera
CCTV stands for ‘closed-circuit television’	Security cameras are also known as IP cameras; Internet Protocol Cameras.
As wired network cords, CCTV cameras utilize	Power over Ethernet (POE) is used by security cameras to reduce the requirement for electrical cables.
CCTV systems have a lesser video quality and image quality than security cameras.	Security cameras provide greater video quality and pixel density than CCTV cameras.
A television is used to transmit feeds from CCTV cameras.	Wi-Fi, LAN, or cellular networks are used to link security cameras.
CCTV is not wirelessly accessible and can be disarmed easily.	Security or IP cams are much more efficient and can be controlled wirelessly regardless of distance.

How To Select The Right CCTV System

When it comes to choosing a CCTV system, there are many things to consider in order to find the right one for your needs. Here are a few tips on how to select the right CCTV system:

-First, you need to determine what type of coverage you need. Are you looking for indoor or outdoor coverage?

-Second, you need to decide on the features that are important to you. Do you need night vision or motion detection?

-Third, you should consider the size and placement of the cameras. You will need to make sure that they are placed in strategic locations in order to get the best coverage possible.

-Fourth, you will need to choose a system that is compatible with your existing security system. If you don’t have a security system, you will need to choose one that is easy to install and use.

-Finally, you will need to decide on a budget. There are many different CCTV systems on the market, so you will need to find one that fits your needs and budget.

When it comes to choosing a CCTV system, there are many things to consider. With these tips in mind, you should be able to find the perfect system for your needs!

How To Select The Right Security Camera

It’s important to do your research when selecting a security camera. You want to make sure you’re getting a high-quality product that will be effective in protecting your home or business. Here are a few things to keep in mind when making your selection:

– The type of camera you need will depend on the area you’re trying to monitor. Indoor cameras are typically small and unobtrusive, while outdoor cameras need to be weatherproof and durable.

– Resolution is an important factor to consider. Higher resolutions mean better image quality, but they also require more storage space and processing power.

– Night vision is another key feature to look for. Many cameras now come with infrared LEDs that allow them to see in low-light conditions.

– Some cameras come with additional features like motion detection and two-way audio. These can be useful in certain situations, but they’re not essential for everyone.

Take your time to compare different security cameras and find the one that’s right for you. With so many options on the market, there’s sure to be a perfect match for your needs.

Conclusion

Make sure you’re getting exactly what you want with SSA INTEGRATE’s services.

We ensure that the solutions we are implementing will meet your demands now and in the future by going through our clients’ requirements.

No matter how many cameras you need, our team can manage all the design, estimating, specifications, equipment use and new equipment installation along with the necessary training and maintenance. We are not recommended to install HikVision, Dahua & Huawei.

It is our goal to give the best possible customer service prior to and following the installation. Regardless of the situation, customers can always rely on our knowledge and team.

IoT - How it Works in Access Control

Internet of Things - How it Works in Access Control 

The "Internet of Things" precisely known as IoT is an integrated network of intelligent computing devices connected through the internet to communicate with each other without any human interference.

What is IoT?

The Internet of Things (IoT) is a technological concept of connecting multiple devices that have the possibility of switching on and off the web in order to use software and automation processes for smart living. IoT is an innovation that changes the way we organize our lives at home and at work, as well as the way we move and use transportation means and manage industrial machinery. Any object, even people, in terms of smartphones and wearables, can be a part of the IoT grid.

The IoT is not limited to computers or other most common devices used for web connections. It’s typical to expect a desktop, a tablet, and a mobile to find their place in the IoT, but the concept encompasses way more. For example, smart vehicles, whose navigation systems depend on a computer dashboard connected to the web can be part of the Internet of Things. Any equipment that can support the smart sensor technology is viable for the IoT environment.

It’s not too difficult to imagine how the IoT grid is and how it will be transforming our workplaces. The Internet of Things at work enables smart buildings that automate business processes and improve security. In a way, IoT office solutions are a bridge from the physical to the virtual workplace.

Taking the physical information and transforming it into virtual data via IoT sensors results in the ability to manage many processes from anything that has a computer processor. Although we haven’t exhausted all IoT ideas for offices, many organizations have benefited from accepting the basics of the concept, creating smart lighting and aircon systems, as well as smart access control systems.

The access control mechanisms restrict unauthorized users from accessing the system by introducing appropriate mechanisms. Data sharing is the process of exchanging information among IIoT users. The access control and data sharing strict the legitimate users can only exchange their data. The access control defines which type of users can access the information of the particular IIoT system and is permitted to perform the control activities.

Internet of Things Ecosystem

IoT is a new concept of integrated network of different kinds of computing devices in the field of information technology. It is based on the IP network in which every individual machine used in manufacturing, security, transportation, and other fields of our day-to-day life is assigned a unique IP to communicate with each other.

Every machine/device is connected with the related sensors, which trigger the control system to issue instructions to a particular machine for some action to perform automatically. This network can communicate through both wireless and wired internet connectivity.

How is IoT used in access control system?

Internet of things is a backbone of modern IoT access control system commonly known as intelligent door locking systems. In this system, every lock, lock access controller, card reader and other associated devices are assigned a separate IP address, which is used for communication among the devices.

In a single building, all those intelligent machines are normally connected through wireless networks to their consolidated management software or mobile application. These applications can be configured for automatic as well as manual operation of different locks and controllers. The security alerts and notifications can also be configured to receive on mobile apps in real time.

Each device/machine is configured for its operating conditions, criteria, sensitivity and authority in core management control software, which is used as controller of the entire system. A duplicate control of this system is used as a mobile app on your mobile devices too; you can receive the status of your access system and you can also issue instructions from your app. Any malicious activity in your access system generates an alert and detailed notification on your mobile app or main management software controller.

What products use it?

Internet of things is used by thousands of types of products in general and almost all parts of the IoT security system commonly used in modern buildings. In access control, intelligent locks, card readers, keypads and other related devices use the technology behind the concept of the internet of things.

Every authorized mobile device also uses its unique IP address in the network to get an access into the main controller for using the intelligent locking system. The main server also has a unique IP address to establish iot communication among the components of entire IoT access control ecosystem.

Advantages of IoT in Access Control

The main benefits of using IoT security system based on IoT include:

- Fully integrated and highly intelligent system

- Accessible from anywhere around the world

- Capabilities to configure for different level authorities

- Can be used for both automatic and manual operations

- Easy to track the records of events

- A comprehensive approach towards secure life

Disadvantages of IoT in Access Control

The main disadvantages of using IoT access control system include:

- Certain hacking and security related issues still persist

- Not so mature technology

- Complex and costly

The nodes maintain an access control list that includes information about IoT devices, users, and associated access levels. Generally, the IIoT is formed using a group of embedded devices like sensors, cameras, and actuators to achieve a specific task. Designing access control and data sharing in such environments are very challenging owing to limited resources and heterogeneity. Context awareness, inter-domain operation, privacy assurance, resource efficiency, manageability, and accountability are some of the requirements of IIoT access control. The access control strategies are categorized into rule-based, capability-based, user control, and attribute-based.

The phrase “knowledge is power” has been taken to a whole new level by IoT technology that has been adapted in diverse areas. Governments have implemented the use of IoT devices in their activity processes such as the use of military drones while IoT devices are used by healthcare facilities and hospitals to provide high-quality healthcare services.

While smartphone and computers have been around for a long time, IoT is a relatively new phenomenon. Therefore, manufacturers and software developers have had sufficient time to address the susceptibilities pertaining to their data breach. IoT devices, alternatively, are extremely useful and come with various capabilities. Manufacturers still encounter problems such as dearth of passable hardware that is strong enough to examine and encode data yet trivial enough to fit inside the restricted space. Cybercriminals can access your home Wi-Fi network through such indiscreet devices and use the opportunity to watch your home surveillance camera to carry out a crime.

The fundamental purpose of implementing IoT devices across numerous segments is to create a completely cohesive smart city. With this integration, any device used in a manufacturing industry can link to another being used by government organizations, healthcare providers, trades or even one’s home network. Nevertheless, the law is yet to formulate privacy protection laws that cover all weaknesses across the different sectors. Cybercriminals continue to take advantage of this shortcoming, which results in the loss of revenue already invested into the project.

How to secure IoT networks

Here are some of the steps that can boost the security of your IoT network.

Know your IoT network

The first measure to take to enhanced security is to recognize and learn what you have and what needs to be protected. While it may appear one of the initial and basic steps, many companies tend to ignore this. Having an appropriate list of what’s on your IoT network and updating it frequently is key to security in any IoT network.

An IoT network usually comprises numerous devices and any of these devices can be used as a source to upset an entire IoT network. Organizations should focus on fixing the fundamentals to face the mounting cyber-risks in IoT.

IoT network security architecture

Most of the normally used surveillance devices barely support the wireless network security standards such as WPA2 or WPA3, which makes them highly vulnerable, capable of easily falling into the hands of hackers. Companies find upgradation of all these devices extremely expensive, so they should think about redesigning their network security architecture.

Divide the responsibility

One of the main problems with IoT security is that businesses often end up with security flaws since they have too much to achieve. Organizations that have their own IoT network characteristically purchase or hire paraphernalia and services from numerous services or device providers. Because IoT has to do with all these devices working together in a network, this medley of equipment can open up numerous holes that can be used to disrupt the system.

Setting up one-way connections

Setting up one-way connections is very important in an IoT network. If the endpoints in an IoT network have more privileges, cybercriminals can exploit them for cyberattacks. With the rise in the number of devices being a part of the IoT, the surface area for the invaders to attack is also increasing. Hence, businesses should restrict the skills of these IoT devices for security motives. Frequently, IoT devices are arranged in a way that they can start network connections by themselves. Although this provides much flexibility and other benefits, it can also lead to numerous security problems. By applying the exercise that all IoT devices are able to stay linked or start connections only using network firewalls and access lists will guarantee better safety.