Page 62 - Security Today, May 2018

Making Data Work
In a best-case scenario, the data a building or business creates will be utilized by the same entity to improve safety and save money on operations. To achieve that goal, we need to figure out what data is valuable not only to security solutions, but to other systems in the building. The interoperability of access con- trol with other building systems is critical for a long-term solution using autonomy.
Autonomy goes beyond the setting of schedules for when doors lock or unlock. It requires the doors to lock or unlock based on a number of triggers and scenarios, to communicate with other systems that this is an acceptable entry or not, and to expect the other systems to r
For example,
door might be completely appropriate for someone who is putting in long hours. If that is the case, the door might want to confirm the identity with other security systems, let the lighting and heating system know which user has entered the building, and provide an audit trail for IT or HR departments.
If it’s not an acceptable entry, a number of other systems need to be alerted—including an emergency response system and potentially the full lockdown of vulnerable areas.
The Cross-Pollination of Markets
Further adding to the complexity of this new world is that commercial and residential spaces—long segmented in the security indus- try—are about to work more closely together thanks in large part to IoT. What we’re seeing the beginning stages of right now is the shar- ing of core competencies, best practices and expectations in the space.
Residential installations have really led the way in IoT with a focus on creating more comfortable, more attractive spaces through automation. Whether in lighting control, thermostats, voice control, or home security, the residential user has been a real leader in setting the standard for what is of value in terms of connected devices.
That expectation created in the resi- dential space is now going to cross over to business. There will soon be—or already is—demand for more user-friendly, simplis- tic control of office spaces. Integrators and building owners alike need to be prepared to meet this demand with the solutions that are available. In any upgrade undertaken, they need to ensure they are future-proofing a building as much as possible for further in- tegrations of IoT systems.
For physical security solutions that means considering what credentials will be used in the coming years, how work forces may change with shifting work schedules, and ensuring access control systems are in
sync across an entire building or campus.
Digital Security for the Physical Security
Further, the business sector will provide a benefit to the residential space as it contin- ues to seek out an industry standard for what digital security goes into protecting physical security products.
For physical security solutions such as doors and openings, we must ensure that digital components are impervious to at- tacks. There have been reports of IoT prod- ucts in the residential realm that have fallen victim to takeover attacks where an intruder can utilize the device for nefarious means such as DDoS (distributed denial of service). There is also constant concern over cameras or other connected devices within homes be- ing compromised.
For business, we must ensure IoT de- vices are rock solid in their digital security. Any intrusion is magnified in a business en- vironment, meaning manufacturers must be certain they stand by their product’s digital security. Similarly, integrators and facility owners must be sure they are working with manufacturers and solutions they can trust.
What Does This Mean for You?
There is complexity and excitement to the IoT space in terms of security for business, healthcare, education, multi-family housing
and other large-scale enterprises. To capi- talize on this space, it is important to both become an expert and to partner with those who will help you overcome any challenges.
Partnerships are key in all security inte- grations and finding a collaborative partner invested in your success is no different when it comes to IoT. Whether you are a building owner, security manager, integrator or other security professional, engage with manu- facturers and ask questions about the ideas mentioned above.
Understand what the plan is with any data being generated. Explain the new de- mands or needs you are seeing from end users. Ensure that digital security is being implemented on any component connecting to a network. A manufacturer that is com- mitted to your continued success will help make the complexity of these situations much simpler.
The Internet of Things is exciting. It will very soon create autonomous buildings that will make our lives at home and work much better, but the path to getting there is to un- derstand the complexities, ensure interopera- bility, and provide robust
security and transpar-
ency along the way.
Peter Boriskin is the vice president of commercial product management at ASSA ABLOY.
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