NCJ Number
219237
Journal
Homeland Defense Journal Volume: 5 Issue: 5 Dated: May 2007 Pages: 64,66,68
Date Published
May 2007
Length
4 pages
Annotation
After noting the deficiencies of most current physical security systems for companies and campuses, this article explains the benefits of upgrading to a converged security environment based in Internet Protocol (IP).
Abstract
The physical security systems of most agencies and private enterprises have common core elements, such as access control, alarm management, and video surveillance. Whether analog or digital, each system operates individually and does not communicate with or influence the other systems. The deficiencies of such a system include vulnerability at a single point of failure, high operations costs, lack of interoperability, and lengthened response time when attacked. A converged security model in which applications can easily communicate and share information offers many benefits. One benefit is off-site storage. Critical data, such as video surveillance, can be placed in a safe location while providing immediate access to authorized users. Digitally stored information can also be located and retrieved quickly. A second benefit is mobility. Wireless technology enables security administrators to move around the facility as needed while retaining access to security applications and monitoring systems through a handheld data device or laptop. A third benefit is shared information. Multiple systems can give security administrators a better perspective on a security issue. Linked systems can also provide a more efficient alert system, such as an alarm that triggers a call to a handheld device and displays video of the problem transmitted from an onsite camera. A fourth benefit is shorter response times. With the ability to analyze input from multiple systems and share that information with appropriate first responders, security administrators can respond faster and more appropriately than is possible with individual systems. This article explains how existing IP networks can be transformed into a converged IP-based security environment.