The Internet of Things (IoT) is quickly becoming a household term; with the rise in cloud-based technology and increased connectivity of devices, there aren't many businesses left that haven't explored what the IoT offers and its many benefits to security systems. The advantage is quite simple: communication between devices increases efficiency and streamlines operations. Physical security systems that harness the cloud are also in demand, offering organizations the advantage of remotely managing security operations. 

But with this interconnectivity comes an enhanced risk of security threats. Cybersecurity can no longer be ignored as organizations continue to integrate physical security products; the possibility and severity of a data breach rises significantly as more devices are added to one universal network. As many leaders know, increased risk doesn’t automatically mean an increase in an organization's security budget or preparedness plans.

One solution to combating this expanding hazard involves repurposing a resource and expert pool often already available to an enterprise organization: the IT department. IT professionals are already well-versed in the ins and outs of a company's computers, network and software, and they share the common goal of protecting critical data and keeping outsiders out. 

There are several considerations to be made when involving the IT department in physical security decisions, including: 

 

Timing

When a company is building or updating their security solution, it's critical that the IT department is consulted at an early stage in the process, ensuring that the capital investment in security systems is conducive to the goals of the organization as a whole. 

 

Establishing Protocol

The IT department should be used to ensure proper data safety protocols are created when involving the use of physical security systems on a network, as well as policing whether these rules are being followed. A hack into an organization's private information can be catastrophic, and oftentimes intruders are looking for sensitive material relating to people's personal lives, such as Social Security numbers. Employing the help of an IT team can ensure such data is comprehensively secured.

 

Evaluating New Technology

IT departments can assist organizations in keeping up with new technology, such as software updates and patches, as well as emerging technology like the cloud. IT departments have the insight required to take precautions against running too much on an internal network and the ability to determine which systems might work best with existing technology.

 

Managing Data

IT acts as the bridge between departments like human resources and physical security as far as both employee records and employee access. It's important to consider the fact that these departments need to “talk” to each other – not just physically, but through technology, as well. IT can facilitate this when bringing the systems together to streamline operations.

 

Integrating Systems while Protecting Data

The integration of multiple aspects of a security network through a unified system is incredibly valuable, but also creates more points of vulnerability. Encrypting communications between devices is therefore paramount; a single insecure structure or poor deployment can make the entire system vulnerable. IT and security teams must work together to protect each facet of a connected network to guarantee that the overall system is secure.

 

A Proactive Strategy

Involving the IT department at an early stage in the selection of physical security systems sets the organization up for success by being more proactive than reactive in their approach to keeping people and assets safe. More specifically, implementing a cloud-based solution that allows security directors to remotely access and control their security systems can keep important events from being missed and security breaches from happening time and time again.

A strong relationship with IT professionals is invaluable when it comes to achieving the maximum safety possible of a security network. Keeping up with remote and instant access to security solutions must be weighed with the ability to keep data safe and secure from threats, and the expertise of an IT team can only strengthen the universal security of a business or enterprise organization.