In the world of cybersecurity, ethical hacking proactively identifies security vulnerabilities before malicious actors (i.e., unethical hackers) can exploit them. By simulating real-world attacks, organisations can strengthen defences, protect sensitive data, and maintain public trust. In the physical security world, ethical hacking can transform cybersecurity of security systems from a reactive struggle into a strategic safeguard. We asked our Expert Panel Roundtable: What is the role of ethical hacking as it relates to physical security?

Next-generation (Next-Gen) technologies are products, services, or infrastructures that represent a significant leap forward rather than a small, incremental update. In the physical security industry, NextGen products are those that enable disruptive change, breakthrough performance, and a fundamental change that renders previous products obsolete. We asked our Expert Panel Roundtable: What is the next generation of physical security solutions, and how will they change the industry?

Emphasising proactive rather than reactive security shifts the focus from dealing with crises and damage control to prevention. Advantages of a proactive approach include cost efficiency, better business continuity, and fewer crises that draw attention away from strategic improvements. Staying ahead of threats is a core mission of the security department, and technology has evolved to enable security professionals to deliver on that mission better than ever. We asked our Expert Panel Roundtable: How are security systems transitioning from reactive to proactive, and what is the benefit?

Multiple technology trends are transforming the physical access control market. There is a fundamental shift away from physical cards and keys toward digital identities — mobile credentials, digital wallets, biometrics, and cloud-native access platforms. These next generation access solutions are radically reshaping how buildings operate, protect staff, and perform functionally. At the same time, AI and analytics solutions are being layered onto these physical access control systems to support predictive threat detection and behavioural insights. Access data itself is becoming an asset for sustainability, space optimisation, and smart building initiatives. Risk, impact operations and experience The annual HID Global Security and Identity Trends Report highlights these and other issues The annual HID Global Security and Identity Trends Report highlights these and other issues. The survey cites improving user convenience as a priority for nearly half of organisations, while 41% are focused on simplifying administration, and 28% struggle with system integration. These are not theoretical challenges, they are day‑to‑day friction points that add cost, increase risk, impact operations and experience, and, of course, must be addressed. HID Global’s commercial focus HID Global’s commercial focus is to help organisations digitise their access control — with mobile identities, biometrics, and cloud platforms — and then to use the data to deliver more value. “We are turning access control from an operational cost into a software-driven asset that improves efficiency, supports Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) goals and even creates new revenue opportunities,” says Steven Commander, HID Global’s Head of Consultant Relations. The impact of digital transformation Digital transformation is the method of moving access control from hardware and physical credentials Digital transformation is in the process of moving access control from hardware and physical credentials to a software-driven, integrated experience. The transformation strengthens security while also improving user convenience — transforming the “pavement to the desk” journey. HID enables this shift through mobile credentials, biometrics, cloud-native platforms, and solutions that allow third-party applications to run on door hardware. “This helps customers turn access data into operational and commercial outcomes, while also improving the overall user experience,” says Commander.  Digital transformation in access control is not focused on chasing the latest trends. Rather, transformation is about turning software, data and integration into outcomes that matter to customers, says HID. “Security becomes stronger and more adaptive,” says Commander. “Operations become simpler and more cost‑effective. Experiences become seamless and consistent. Sustainability moves from ambition to action. And the financial case becomes clearer as efficiencies are banked and new value streams emerge.” The challenge of futureproofing with long lifecycles Given that physical security technologies will be in place for 15 to 20 years, it is important to plan for how systems can evolve over time. Considering how rapidly security threats, compliance standards, and user expectations change, 15 to 20 years is a long time. The decisions made at the beginning of a system’s lifecycle can either limit flexibility later (which will be costly) or enable long-term adaptability. Support for open standards such as Open Supervised Device Protocol (OSDP) is therefore important Choosing products and platforms that are open, interoperable, and designed for updates can enable future-proof projects. Support for open standards such as Open Supervised Device Protocol (OSDP) is therefore important.  In addition, systems built on open controller platforms — such as Mercury — enable organisations to switch software providers or expand functionality without replacing core door hardware. Architectural openness is key to system lifecycles and maximising the return on investment (ROI) from a chosen solution. Digital credentials and mobile access Flexibility and upgradeability should also be top of mind when it comes to endpoints like access control readers. While RFID cards are still commonplace, there is a clear trend toward digital credentials and mobile access. Readers that support both allow organisations to transition at their own pace, without committing to a full system overhaul. A long system lifecycle does not mean technology should remain static. Security, particularly cybersecurity, demands more frequent updates. Technologies that support firmware upgrades in the field extend the value of a deployment while helping organisations keep pace with emerging threats. In that sense, lifecycle thinking is not just about longevity — it’s about maintaining resilience and readiness over time. Applying biometrics and mobile identities Biometrics is becoming mainstream as a credential alternative, strengthening security without adding friction Biometrics is becoming mainstream as a credential alternative, strengthening security without adding friction. Many organisations are now deploying biometrics to support fast, seamless access journeys, with adoption already around 39% in access control according to HID’s recent research.  In addition, 80% of organisations surveyed expect to deploy mobile identities within the next five years. Full technology integration enables tap‑to‑access without opening an app; the user journey becomes faster, safer, and more convenient. “It is where the industry is headed and we are at the vanguard of this,” says Commander.    Ongoing challenge of cybersecurity At HID Global, cybersecurity is embedded into everything, from corporate processes and development practices to the solutions they bring to market. “Our approach ensures that customers can strengthen their overall security posture, not only by deploying secure products but by benefitting from HID’s commitment to the highest industry standards,” says Commander. HID holds multiple globally recognised certifications, including ISO 27001, ISO 14298, SOC Type 2 and CSA STAR, which demonstrate their robust information security and cloud security practices. In addition, HID’s SEOS® secure chipset is independently SEAL-certified, providing one of the most advanced levels of protection available on the market today. “Ultimately, this means organisations are not just purchasing isolated secure products; they are implementing solutions developed and delivered within a comprehensive, cybersecure framework,” says Commander. “When deployed according to best practices, HID solutions enable customers to achieve the highest levels of resilience against evolving physical and cyber threats.” Developing green and sustainable solutions A huge amount of waste is generated from the manufacture of plastic RFID access cards Digital credentials align with the sustainable solutions that everyone wants. A huge amount of waste is generated from the manufacture of plastic RFID access cards. Over 550 million access cards are sold annually. This creates 2,700 tons of plastic waste and 11,400 tons of carbon, based on a PVC card weighing 5 grams.  Therefore, digital credentials self-evidently reduce the reliance on plastic cards (helping reduce carbon emissions by up to 75% according to HID’s research), while leveraging access control system data supports energy optimisation by shutting down or reducing systems in unused spaces. Energy use and CO₂ emissions can be cut dramatically, showing how access systems can contribute to sustainability goals and green building certification. What is the latest in smart buildings? Smart buildings increasingly rely on mobile access control as the backbone for digital services. Real-time access data enables new services such as automated room bookings, HVAC control, lift/elevator calling, e-bike hiring, and so on. Smart buildings increasingly rely on mobile access control as the backbone for digital services The financial upside is clear; smart, digitally transformed buildings can deliver around 8% higher yields per square foot versus traditional office space. Operational savings accrue from reduced administration, the removal of card production and shipping, and lighter IT support. This creates a value cycle — better experiences drive adoption, adoption fuels monetisation, and monetisation funds further improvements. Achieving technology impact in the real world One standout project is One Bangkok – a $3.9 billion mixed used development in Thailand – which demonstrates the scale of what can be achieved when access control data is used for optimisation, particularly when it comes to monitoring facilities usage and occupier behaviours. By switching lights off or lowering the temperature in unused rooms, for example, the One Bangkok building demonstrates this potential with a 22% reduction in energy consumption, saving 17,000 MWh and 9,000 tons of CO₂ annually.  Sustainability is a key factor in contributing to how properties are valued. And sustainability extends far beyond digital credentials having a lower environmental impact than plastic cards.  Buildings with recognised sustainability certifications often command rental premiums of around 6%, and three‑quarters of security decision‑makers now consider environmental impact in their procurement assessments.

Gallagher Security is strengthening its leadership bench across the Americas as the business continues a clear growth trajectory, with more than 30 percent growth forecast for the current financial year across the region. “Planning for strategic expansion has been a key focus for our team this year. We are incredibly excited about the opportunity ahead, and it is crucial that we set our teams up for success - not just in capability, but in the culture we build along the way," says Matt Butts, Gallagher Executive Vice President - Americas. Deepening regional focus As the business scales, Gallagher is investing in the leadership and organisational structure needed to support its next phase of growth across the Americas - deepening regional focus, strengthening partner engagement, and building the capability to serve larger, more complex markets. As part of this evolution, the company announces three key promotions within its Americas sales organisation. Jeff Fields has been promoted to Regional Vice President, Sales - US East, LATAM and Federal Markets. A seasoned leader with extensive experience supporting End Users, Channel Partners, and government programs, Fields will oversee sales strategy, team leadership, and business development across these key markets, and will serve as an executive sponsor for key customer and partner relationships. Building strategic relationships "After more than 35 years in this industry, I've learned that success is rooted in trust, serving customers, and supporting the people around you. I'm honoured to step into this expanded role, and I look forward to paying forward the knowledge and lessons that have shaped my career as we continue to grow across the Americas," says Fields. Natalie Bannon has been promoted to Senior Director, Strategic Accounts & Vertical Markets - Americas. Bannon has been instrumental in building strategic relationships and driving key initiatives for Gallagher, including the establishment of the company's global Consultant Program. In her expanded role, she will lead strategic account development and vertical market engagement, working closely with End Users, Technology Partners, and Channel Partners to accelerate growth in key industries. Business development experience "One of my favourite parts of what I do has always been connecting dots - bringing together customers, partners, people, and ideas that might otherwise sit in separate lanes. This role expands the opportunity to turn more of those connections into growth and impact. I'm grateful for the opportunity and excited for what's ahead," says Bannon. Charles Reed joins Gallagher as Regional Vice President, Sales – US West and Canada, effective September 8, 2026. Charles brings more than two decades of leadership, sales, and business development experience across the security and technology industries, most recently as Regional Sales Director at i-PRO Americas. As RVP, Charles will lead Gallagher's sales organisation across the Western United States and Canada, focusing on strengthening End User and Channel relationships, developing talent across the region, and driving sustainable, long-term growth. Meeting customers and partners “I am really looking forward to joining the Gallagher team and supporting Channel Partners and End Users to unlock more value from their security solutions. I am especially excited to join my new colleagues on the floor at GSX next week, I have my orange shoes ready to go!”. Of the team transformation Matt Butts says: “Enabling the next phase for Gallagher really comes down to our people, and I am thrilled to congratulate Jeff, Natalie, and Charles on their new roles. I have every confidence that they, along with their dedicated teams, will continue to deliver strong results both for Gallagher and our partners across the Americas." These appointments reflect Gallagher Security's ongoing investment in capability and capacity as the business scales. The expanded Americas leadership team will be available to meet customers and partners at booth #3433, GSX 2026, September 14–16 in Atlanta, alongside the latest innovations in the Gallagher Security product suite including Visitor Management powered by Kenai, QuickSwitch, OneLink and more.

SWEAR, a pioneer in digital content authenticity, announces the Community Video Integrity Project, a new initiative designed to help cities and public agencies proactively protect the integrity of critical video and establish a verifiable record of authenticity from the moment it is captured. Deepfakes and synthetic media are creating a challenge that extends far beyond fabricated content. According to a 2025 Pew Research Center survey, 53% of Americans are not confident they can distinguish content created by AI from content created by people. As manipulated video becomes more sophisticated and accessible, even authentic footage can be called into question. For cities and public agencies that rely on video for investigations, public safety, legal proceedings, and accountability, showing a recording is no longer enough. They increasingly need to prove it is real. Law enforcement agencies The program gives municipalities, law enforcement agencies, and other public sector organisations an opportunity to put video authentication into practice in real-world environments. Selected participants will deploy SWEAR across high-priority cameras, creating a verifiable record that critical footage is authentic and has not been altered from the moment it is captured. “Video plays a critical role in how our customers investigate incidents, respond to events, and make important security decisions,” said Andy Schreyer, Vice President of Technology, Stone Security. “As AI makes sophisticated manipulation increasingly accessible, protecting that video means building on how it is captured and stored to also prove authenticity. That’s why we support what SWEAR is doing with the Community Video Integrity Project. It gives organisations a practical way to begin addressing a challenge we believe will only become more important.” Existing security environments The Community Video Integrity Project is designed to help organisations using Milestone XProtect add an independent, complementary layer of video authentication that builds on the protections XProtect already provides to their existing security environments. SWEAR creates a verifiable record of authenticity from the moment video is captured, giving organisations verifiable documentation that footage has not been altered and helping establish its integrity when used to support investigations, legal proceedings, or other critical decisions. “Milestone XProtect gives organisations a secure, open foundation for managing critical video, and we are always looking at how that foundation evolves as the standard for trusting video rises,” said Tim Palmquist, Vice President, Americas, Milestone Systems. “As AI makes manipulation more accessible, authenticity is becoming part of that standard. Through the Community Video Integrity Project, public-sector organisations can extend that assurance to their highest-priority cameras, complementing the protections XProtect already provides for investigations, accountability, and public safety.” Trusted point of reference By creating an independent cryptographic record of the original footage, SWEAR gives organisations verifiable documentation that video remains unchanged — providing a trusted point of reference for investigations, legal proceedings, and other situations where the integrity of evidence may be challenged. “AI has fundamentally changed the standard for trusting video,” said Jason Crawforth, CEO, SWEAR. “It’s no longer enough to look at a recording and believe what you see. Organisations need a way to prove that the video they present in an investigation, in court, or to the public is authentic and unchanged from the moment it was captured. That’s what SWEAR provides, and the Community Video Integrity Project is about putting that capability into the hands of organisations where trust in digital evidence is absolutely critical.”

Genetec Inc., the pioneer in enterprise physical security software, announces its empower360 roadshow will return to the United Arab Emirates. Taking place in Abu Dhabi on September 16, the partner-focused events will bring together physical security professionals and technology experts to explore how data-driven strategies, operational intelligence and emerging technologies are transforming the future of physical security. Held under the theme ‘Advancing Security Through Intelligence and Innovation,’ this year’s roadshow comes as organisations increasingly move beyond standalone systems and look for more connected approaches to strengthen physical security while supporting wider operational objectives. Wider operational objectives According to the Genetec 2026 State of Physical Security Report, 71% of respondents are already using unified or integrated video surveillance and access control systems. The report also found that 60% of channel respondents identified integrating systems with new technologies as the primary motivation for customers replacing legacy systems. Across the Middle East, continued investment in digital infrastructure, smart developments and large-scale transformation initiatives is also changing the role physical security plays within organisations. Smarter physical security operations Sessions at empower360 will explore how organisations can advance their physical security strategies through smarter physical security operations, developments in access control, operational intelligence, and practical approaches to infrastructure modernisation. Attendees can meet Genetec experts, experience technology demonstrations, and exchange insights with industry peers and partners. “Across the Middle East, organisations are investing in infrastructure and digital transformation, and physical security must evolve with them,” said Firas Jadalla, Regional Director, META at Genetec Inc. “Connected systems are only part of the challenge. Organisations also need operational insight, resilience, and control to manage increasingly complex environments. empower360 brings our partner community together to explore practical ways innovation can help organisations support the next phase of physical security.”

barox Kommunikation AG has announced a new partnership with QR Tech Solutions, a value-added technology distributor serving the UAE and wider MENA region. The agreement will give systems integrators and end users in the region enhanced access to barox’s high-performance Ethernet PoE switches and media converters, and built-in integration tools for professional video security applications. Part of the MultiPower International Group (MPI), QR Tech Solutions is based in the UAE and traces its origins to a UK business founded more than 40 years ago. The company provides information and security systems for sectors including cement, oil and gas, retail, education, healthcare, hospitality, industrial operations and critical infrastructure. Cutting-edge information As a value-added distribution partner, QR Tech Solutions supports product procurement, specification, testing and commissioning. Working with selected integrator partners, the company operates from offices in the UAE, Iraq and Oman, while also covering other MENA countries. Specialising in four core solutions, QR Tech Solutions has built an acknowledged reputation across MENA for providing turn-key component solutions. Their cutting-edge information and security system designs deliver advanced security surveillance, access control, master clock time servers, PA, and bell systems, for industry applications including people and asset protection, nurse call, time & attendance, and HR data management. Also specialised in Lidar solutions for may applications. Advanced security surveillance QR Tech Solutions’ partnership with Milestone expands the opportunities for high-performance integration and control across the region via barox integration. Through the barox Milestone plug-in, system designs can easily connect with barox switches, simplifying integration and strengthening overall system performance. This functionality enables integrators to harness barox’s Ethernet switch capability and advanced Device Management System (DMS) network monitoring tool, to enhance VMS/PSIM operability and control. With barox now a key partner to QR Tech Solutions, the collaboration is set to support powerful video and network system solutions, bringing a new dimension of video and systems control to the MENA region. Data management solutions “QR Tech Solutions is trusted to connect international technology partners with clients across the MENA region, delivering dependable security and data management solutions that support progress and development,” said Quieta Raouf, MD of QR Tech Solutions. “We are therefore delighted to partner with barox, a leading provider of high-performance Ethernet switches, PoE products and media converters.” “Before entering into the partnership agreement, our in-house testing team closely evaluated the barox switch range. The results showed that the barox Device Management System offers a highly useful topological view of the network, helping users connect and configure multiple devices, monitor device health, control PoE power to each device and disable individual ports when required.” Advanced integration capability “We also found that connectivity to Milestone XProtect was straightforward, with simple plug-and-play integration. It is one of the easiest solutions of its kind that we have seen. We concluded that barox product quality, performance and support make their range a strong fit for our integrator partners and customers. That is important to us, because we aim to work with best-in-class technology partners to build strong, reliable solutions.” Sara Fisher, Head of Sales at barox enthused: “We are delighted to partner with QR Tech Solutions and together deliver barox’s benefits of advanced switch functionality and performance, simple device integration and product quality for our UAE customers.” “For systems integrators, the capability to specify barox and Milestone as a combined solution is a ‘game changing’ proposition, opening up a new world of powerful barox switch and network management via the Milestone plug-in monitoring tool. MENA integrator and end user customers will now be able to reap real value and cost saving benefits. This advanced integration capability sets barox apart from other switch manufacturers - as is to be expected from an international brand.”

After a major refurbishment, Benghazi Children's Hospital in Libya is preparing to deliver a safer, more connected, and more efficient healthcare experience. By adopting Hikvision's AIoT (AI-powered Internet of Things) technologies, the hospital is enhancing patient care, strengthening communication, supporting medical education, and improving operational efficiency throughout the facility. For more than four decades, Benghazi Children's Hospital has served local communities and families. Covering approximately 11,300 m², the hospital supports a wide range of inpatient and outpatient services. Its recent refurbishment—the first in over 40 years—was more than a maintenance project. The hospital set ambitious goals to modernise the environment, aiming for an 80% improvement in patient satisfaction, response times, and interdepartmental communication. Smart healthcare solution To support these objectives, the hospital has been working with the national distributor Al Motaheda to deploy an integrated Hikvision smart healthcare solution spanning patient communication, medical education, and fire protection. When a patient needs help, every second matters. To help caregivers respond quickly and efficiently, Benghazi Children's Hospital has deployed Hikvision's Nurse Call System across its two inpatient departments: the Observation Department and the Gastroenteritis Department. At 11 ward entrances, Doorway Terminals and LED indicators have been installed. Now, when a patient calls, room number and bed information will immediately appear in the corridor, helping nursing staff identify where assistance is needed. Delivering routine announcements A Nurse Station has been located between the two departments. From a single point, staff will be able to receive, prioritise, and respond to requests from all 11 wards, helping improve efficiency while ensuring patients receive timely attention. Beyond the nurse call system, the hospital also wants to strengthen communication between departments. 40 SIP Phones have been installed across examination rooms, operating rooms, labs, and offices, to keep every department connected for day-to-day coordination. 37 Ceiling Speakers will deliver routine announcements, visitor guidance, and emergency notifications. 26 Ceiling Access Points will provide hospital-wide wireless connectivity, supporting staff communications, connected devices, and future digital healthcare applications. Improving patient satisfaction Together, these systems have are creating a more connected healthcare environment where information reaches the right people at the right time. Hospital management expects the solution to play a key role in improving patient satisfaction while significantly reducing response times once the facility becomes fully operational. As a teaching hospital, Benghazi Children's Hospital also places strong emphasis on clinical education. However, limited space inside operating rooms can make it difficult for large groups of students to observe procedures firsthand. To address this challenge, the hospital has deployed a Live Surgery Broadcasting System built around the Hikvision Video Cart. Dedicated training hall This is a mobile unit that can be moved between all four operating rooms as needed. With appropriate patient consent and in accordance with hospital policies, it captures high-quality video and audio that can be transmitted live to a dedicated training hall. This will allow more medical students to observe operations without disrupting clinical activities or overcrowding operating rooms. In addition to live viewing, surgical procedures can – again, with consent – be recorded and stored for future training purposes. This will enable educators to build a growing library of teaching materials while giving more students access to practical clinical learning experiences. Centralised emergency management Fire safety has also been addressed by installing a comprehensive Hikvision fire protection solution. The system enables early fire detection, rapid alert distribution, and centralised emergency management. 203 Smoke Detectors cover every area of the building, from operating rooms to waiting areas to staff rooms. 24 Audible and Visual Alarms, and Manual Call Points have been placed at the ends of corridors and near all exits, where people moving toward evacuation routes will find them. A Fire Alarm Control Panel at the main reception provides centralised monitoring and control. A microphone at the same location will allow staff to broadcast live evacuation instructions to the entire hospital should it be needed. Effective medical education Together, these capabilities help ensure faster response during emergencies while supporting a safer environment for patients, visitors, and staff. Although the hospital has not yet officially opened following its refurbishment, feedback from hospital management and medical staff has been highly positive. As Taha Grgom, Project Manager at the Hospital put it: "The nurse call system will help us respond to patients more quickly, while the live surgery broadcasting system will open new possibilities for medical education. Together, these technologies are helping us build a more connected and efficient hospital." As Benghazi Children's Hospital prepares to welcome its first patients, it stands as a powerful example of how AIoT technologies can support better care, stronger collaboration, safer operations, and more effective medical education. More importantly, it shows what Tech for Good can mean in practice—using technology to make a meaningful difference where it matters most and help every child receive the care they deserve.

Bournemouth and Poole College, the largest provider of further education and apprenticeships in the Dorset area, has installed Hochiki's ESP addressable fire detection range across its four-storey site, protecting a diverse mix of teaching environments including IT suites, kitchens, workshops and engineering bays. The installation was specified and delivered by SFA Fire and Security, working closely with the college to design a system capable of handling the varied fire risks found across further education provision. Subjects such as catering, automotive maintenance, construction and engineering carry a higher risk of nuisance alarms from dust and fumes, while IT and digital media spaces rely heavily on electrical equipment. A tailored approach was needed to protect the site without interrupting learning. Protecting valuable teaching time ESP's common mounting base allowed SFA's installers to work through the site using a single standard base across most devices, reducing the range of parts held on site and helping installation stay on schedule despite the complexity of the building. In kitchens and workshops, LPCB and VdS approved heat sensors were used to distinguish genuine fire risk from cooking activity and dust, reducing false alarms and protecting valuable teaching time. ESP's textual identifier gives staff the exact location of an activated device, supporting fast and accurate evacuation decisions in a large site with high footfall. Wall-mounted VADs, certified to EN 54-23, added audio and visual alerts throughout the college, ensuring alarms reach staff and students regardless of location or impairment. Where cabling access was limited by drop beams, wireless technology was integrated onto the ESP loop, avoiding extensive drilling and preserving the building's original structure. Successful projects together Naomi Fell, Projects Director at SFA Fire and Security, said: "This project presented numerous challenges due to the complexity of each room and storey within the college. Our extensive experience with Hochiki's products, combined with the consistently positive feedback from our end-users, made Hochiki the clear choice for this project. We met the college's stringent deadlines with minimal disruption to teaching and learning." Ryan Baulcomb, Regional Sales Manager at Hochiki, added: "Hochiki and SFA have a strong, long-term partnership, built on years of successful projects together. This installation shows what that partnership can deliver on a genuinely complex site. We're proud that our products continue to give installers and end-users the reliability and support they expect." Bournemouth and Poole College now benefit from a fire detection system tailored to the specific demands of each corridor, room and storey across the site, with the flexibility to adapt as the college continues to grow.

In a move to modernise campus operations and create a smoother experience for students and staff, Peru’s National Agrarian University has deployed a comprehensive Hikvision smart campus solution. From streamlined access to safer transportation, the university is building a safer, connected and efficient campus environment. Universidad Nacional Agraria La Molina (National Agrarian University) is one of Peru's most respected academic institutions. Its 102-hectare campus operates more like a small city than a traditional university, serving eight faculties, around 8,000 students, and about 600 teachers every day. Campus bus operations As campus activity continued to grow, the university wanted a more modern and efficient way to manage daily operations. Previously, visitor and vehicle access relied heavily on manual checks and handwritten records. The university also wanted better visibility over campus bus operations and more effective support for security teams patrolling the large campus area. Their goals included: Streamlining pedestrian and vehicle access Equipping patrol teams with mobile tools to enable them to respond to incidents faster Enhancing safety and visibility across campus bus operations Centralising management through a single unified platform To achieve these, the university worked with system integrator Consorcio Valtar Security y Serinfortel to deploy a unified Hikvision smart campus solution. Anti-tailgating functions To improve pedestrian access, the university installed 18 Hikvision Pro Swing Barriers (DS-K3B530X) and 28 Face Recognition Terminals (DS-K5671-ZV) at the main and side entrances. The solution helps students and staff move through gates quickly while improving entry management. The facial recognition terminals support recognition speeds of less than 0.2 seconds per user and accuracy rates above 99%. Anti-tailgating functions, which prevent people slipping in behind others, helps ensure only authorised individuals can enter. LED indicators, meanwhile, provide visual indicators guide people through the turnstiles in order to avoid bottlenecks. To further streamline visitor handling, the university deployed a Visitor Terminal (DS-K5032-D) together with an Enrolments Station (DS-K1F600U-D6E-F) at the main entrance. The dual-screen visitor terminal supports paperless registration, helping security staff process guests more efficiently while reducing manual paperwork. At the same time, the enrolment station simplifies face enrolment and user management through an easy-to-use touch-screen interface. Anti-hitting protection mechanisms For vehicle access, Hikvision deployed 6 ANPR Cameras (DS-TCG406-E(S)) together with 6 Barrier Gates (DS-TMG520-H/B) at two campus entrances. The system automatically recognises license plates and manages vehicle access in real time, helping reduce waiting times and improve traffic flow. Staff vehicles can be pre-registered through the university’s app, allowing smoother entry during peak hours. Adjustable barrier speeds and multiple anti-hitting protection mechanisms also help improve operational safety. To further improve the driver experience, LED Screens (DS-TVL224-4-5Y) display welcome messages and vehicle information in real time. Because of the campus’s large size, motorcycle patrol teams play an important role in maintaining daily operations and responding quickly across different areas. To support these teams, the university has deployed 10 Hikvision Ultra Series Body Cameras (DS-MH2311) together with 2 Dock Stations (DS-MDS001). Several features make this solution particularly suitable for mobile patrol work: Clear 2 MP video recording with a wide 129° horizontal field of view Up to 8 hours of recording with a removable 3,300 mAh battery Wireless connectivity for improved communication Real-time positioning support through GPS Centralised charging, storage, and evidence upload through dock stations Professional campus operations The cameras are mainly used during routine motorcycle patrols and when responding to incidents on campus. Recorded footage helps clearly document security procedures and provides reliable records of how situations were handled, supporting transparent and professional campus operations. The university has also upgraded safety across its fleet of 11 campus buses with Hikvision onboard solutions. Each bus is equipped with: Mobile Dome Cameras (DS-2XM6726G1-IM/ND) and Mobile Network Cameras (DS-2XM6522G1-ID): These provide real-time HD video coverage inside and outside the buses, helping operators monitor passenger boarding, alighting, and road conditions clearly. DSM Camera (AE-VC1B1I-ISF(RJ45)): This improves driving safety by detecting critical safety indicators such as fatigue, distractions, and smoking. When potential risks are identified, alerts are immediately issued to the driver, helping encourage safer driving practices during daily routes. Touch Monitor (AE-MW1203): Drivers can view live camera feeds through the monitor. The display automatically switches to relevant views when doors open or when reversing, helping drivers monitor passenger movement and blind spots more effectively. Alarm Button (DS-1530HMI(AE)(O-NEU)): It allows drivers to immediately notify the control center for rapid assistance in emergency situations. Mobile NVR (AE-MN5043(1T/SSD)(RJ45)(O-STD)): This records and stores video while also supporting GPS positioning, geofencing, and route monitoring through Google Maps integration. Campus bus management Every solution, from access control and patrol operations to campus bus management, is centrally managed through HikCentral Professional. From this single platform, the university can: Monitor access events in real time Manage user permissions and visitor records Track campus buses through GIS-based maps Receive centralised alarms and event notifications Coordinate faster responses across campus According to the university, the solution has significantly improved operational visibility and coordination across the campus. “With Hikvision’s smart campus solution, we now have a much more efficient and connected way to manage daily campus operations,” says Joseph Jimy Ordóñez Blanco, General Coordinator of the University’s Security Unit. “From access management to transportation safety, the platform gives our teams better visibility, faster response capabilities, and greater confidence in maintaining a safe environment for students and staff.”

ZeroEyes, creators of the multi-analytics weapons detection and threat intelligence platform, announces that its proactive AI gun detection and intelligent situational awareness software has been renewed by Central Valley School District in Beaver County, Pennsylvania after a successful first year of deployment. Serving four schools across Beaver County, Pennsylvania, including a primary center, elementary school, middle school, and high school, the district supports approximately 2,200 students and 200 faculty and staff. ZeroEyes has been integrated across all facilities as part of the district’s commitment to maintaining a safe, secure, and welcoming learning environment. Welcoming learning environment “The safety of our students and staff will always be our top priority,” said Brian Dolph, Safety & Security Director for the Central Valley School District. “By implementing ZeroEyes technology, Central Valley School District is taking a proactive step to enhance campus security and provide real-time detection of potential firearm threats, helping ensure that our schools remain safe places for teaching, learning, and growth. ZeroEyes has been a valued partner, delivering continuous monitoring and an added level of assurance in our campus security efforts.” Central Valley School District’s deployment is part of a broader, layered approach to safety that includes closed-circuit cameras, a visitor management system, ALICE-trained staff, regular district-wide safety drills, and school resource officers in all buildings. The district also conducts coordinated active shooter drills each summer in partnership with Beaver County Emergency Services and works closely with local communities, including Monaca Borough and Central Township, to support campus safety efforts. Situational awareness software ZeroEyes’ AI gun detection and intelligent situational awareness software layers onto existing digital security cameras. If a gun is identified, images are instantly shared with the ZeroEyes Operations Center (ZOC), the industry’s only U.S.-based, fully in-house operations centre staffed 24/7/365 by specially trained U.S. military and law enforcement veterans. If the threat is determined to be valid, alerts and actionable intelligence — including visual description, gun type, and last known location — are dispatched to law enforcement and school officials, often in a matter of seconds from the moment a gun is detected. “Central Valley School District has taken a thoughtful and proactive approach to campus safety,” said Mike Lahiff, CEO and co-founder of ZeroEyes. “By continuing to invest in real-time intelligence and working closely with trusted partners, the district is strengthening its ability to respond quickly to potential threats while maintaining a safe and supportive learning environment.”