Why Schools Are Adopting Integrated Technology For More Proactive Security Systems

Crime prevention and incident detection will always be the primary objectives of any effective school security system, with each component from video security cameras to access control systems configured to detect suspicious activities and prevent intruders from causing harm.

By developing trusted systems designed to anticipate common threats, security teams can prevent dangerous incidents from becoming serious issues, though with limited resources many school security departments don’t have the time to permanently view live data feeds.

Thankfully, with the advent of smart technologies, the Internet of Things (IoT), cloud-based systems and AI-informed data analytics, modern school security teams are able to create integrated solutions and automated incident responses to offer a holistic view of school security and improve student safety. Below are the benefits of adopting integrated systems.

AI-informed video security 

Existing video security cameras can be integrated alongside AI-informed data analytics software to dramatically improve incident responses. Using advanced machine learning algorithms, modern AI programs are able to autonomously detect suspicious activities and use this data to both alert on-site teams and trigger wider responses from linked devices.

For example, active security cameras can be programmed to detect large crowds forming at unusual times or in typically quiet areas by comparing these events to historic data. Devices can then be configured to notify nearby security teams for response, as well as automatically activate installed IoT alarms and school security door locks to provide immediate assistance.

As AI-informed video security cameras will remain active at all times, school security teams with limited personnel are free to focus on patrols and student-facing tasks without needing to frequently check camera feeds for potential issues. Instead, on-site teams will be instantly notified of detected anomalies, allowing staff to focus their efforts on matters of importance.

Automated access control

Utilizing access control systems are often the first line of defense for school security teams wishing to prevent unauthorized persons from entering the property. By ensuring that only students and staff with issued credentials have access, intrusion events can be measurably reduced.

However, installed access systems can be improved further by integrating these devices with IoT environmental and motion detection sensors to create automated lockdown procedures. Security locks connected to nearby motion, sound or pressure sensors can be programmed to automatically engage if relevant stimuli are detected within bounds set by security teams.

For example, lockdown functions may be programmed to initiate in response to excessive force, loud sounds that may indicate an attempted break-in or motion detected outside of typical parameters. Alarms can also be integrated into lockdown functions to alert staff and students, with notifications sent to security teams indicating where the event has occurred. 

Remote security management 

For an integrated school security system to operate appropriately, all linked devices should be controlled from a cloud-based management platform. Cloud-based security management allows teams to combine the function of all active systems within a unified web-based portal, with admins able to access a main dashboard and adjust each system remotely at any time.

School security personnel and chosen IT admins will be issued with personalized credentials used to access the management system from any secure smart device, meaning staff can view, edit and adjust installed devices whenever necessary to provide 24/7 security support.

Real-time notifications can also be programmed to improve incident response times. If staff are on-premises, these notifications can be used to warn students of unfolding events via PA systems or alarms. If systems are triggered after hours, admins can view live camera feeds to assess the situation and choose to contact authorities or activate wider security systems.

Strengthened cybersecurity policies

Integrated school security systems will also often be combined with existing cybersecurity measures to promote collaboration between physical and IT security teams, and reduce the risks posed by significant data breaches. By integrating physical and digital security tools, vulnerabilities can be addressed in opposing systems to improve school security as a whole.

Just as physical security teams can receive real-time alerts related to on-site security issues, IT and cybersecurity teams will be notified of suspicious activity within digitals systems, with additional options to program automated responses ensuring sensitive data is well protected.

By applying cyber and physical security best practices to the operation security systems, teams can also implement multi-factor authentication and advanced encryption processes used to prevent malicious actors from accessing active devices. Doing so can help to protect stored data, sensitive records and digital management systems from sophisticated cyber attacks.

Summary

School security systems must be designed to both detect potential threats and prevent dangerous incidents from causing harm to students and staff, though if active devices are unable to share data, teams may be left struggling to appropriately assess unfolding events.

By developing an integrated security system, school security staff can create automated responses and receive real-time alerts to better focus their efforts on matters of importance. With support from AI security cameras, smart access control systems and cloud-based management platforms, students and staff can be protected from threats around the clock.