The news frequently highlights stories of criminal activity that impact our safety and security. Disturbed individuals have targeted houses of worship, schools, and businesses, while organized criminals are often involved in smash-and-grab incidents at retail stores. Although IP camera systems have proven effective in capturing these criminals, it’s crucial to explore strategies to prevent such intrusions.
Security Defenses
We can establish multiple layers of defense around an organization to enhance safety. This protection revolves around four primary types of security equipment: door access control, IP intercoms, IP cameras, and emergency paging systems.
Door Access Control: The First Line of Defense
Modern door access control systems are network-connected and utilize Ethernet (PoE) power. Some systems feature combination reader controllers that connect directly to the network, eliminating the need for a central controller. This reduces wiring requirements and simplifies installation.
These advanced access control systems come with sophisticated management software offering numerous safety features, making them significantly more secure than older systems. Users can choose between local or cloud-based access control management software. Additionally, these systems can be managed via smartphone, adding convenience.
Smartphones can also function as credentials, replacing more costly cards or key fobs and streamlining user registration. When door access control is integrated with an IP camera system, overall security and safety are enhanced. This integration allows security personnel to review individuals entering the premises, reducing issues like passbacks and shared credentials.
More advanced systems even offer elevator control, with the same access control software managing both doors and elevators.
Intercoms: The Second Line of Defense
IP intercoms are used to manage visitor access. There are two main types: one-to-one intercoms, which connect a visitor to a security personnel member, and one-to-many intercoms, which allow users to contact multiple individuals within the organization.
Basic IP intercoms facilitate remote communication with a security officer in charge of visitor control. An IP camera can be integrated with the intercom, enabling the security personnel to see and speak with the person at the door, ensuring only authorized individuals are granted entry.
Apartment Intercoms
Modern apartment or multi-tenant intercom systems operate wirelessly, simplifying installation. Users can easily locate and call specific departments or individuals in an apartment building using a touchscreen interface. The called party can respond via a mobile app, allowing them to view, communicate, and release the door remotely.
This wireless system is ideal for new installations or replacements. It connects to tenants’ smartphones or wired phones, enabling them to see and speak to visitors at the door from anywhere globally using cellular data.
IP Cameras: The Third Line of Defense
Traditionally, IP camera systems have been used primarily for reviewing recorded video. While some security personnel monitor live feeds, this approach can be costly and impractical. Typically, video footage is reviewed only when an issue arises.
Modern Smart IP Cameras offer real-time alarm notifications and intelligent behavior analysis to determine when an alarm should be triggered. For instance, an IP camera may detect when someone crosses a designated line, indicating entry into a restricted area or movement within a parking lot. They can also identify if someone leaves a package or removes an item like a laptop.
Some IP cameras come with audio capabilities, allowing security personnel to issue warnings to individuals encroaching on restricted areas.
IP Paging Systems: The Fourth Line of Defense
IP paging systems have replaced outdated analog systems with central amplifiers. The new technology includes network-connected powered speakers that use PoE (Power over Ethernet), making installation straightforward.
IP paging systems enable rapid notification of dangerous situations across specific areas or the entire organization. Whether dealing with a fire or a lockdown scenario, the system ensures swift communication.
The software includes if-then logic to create automated alerts, which can be triggered with the push of a button.