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.

Security services provider The Keyholding Company has today announced it is rebranding as Forcefield. The change of name reflects how the business has evolved over recent years, from a provider of keyholding and mobile security services into a technology-led security company built around a single security management platform. The rebrand signals the arrival of a new type of security, one that gives clients a clearer and more cohesive view of their physical security. Forcefield’s approach starts from a common problem. Most organisations struggle with fragmented services and systems that are hard to manage and offer limited visibility into exactly what value each element brings. Forcefield starts by assessing risk, understanding a client’s objectives and recommending solutions that fit. Services are then put in place and adjusted as the picture changes. Forcefield’s operating model The Forcefield platform draws data from every discipline together, giving security leaders a single view of their estate: it cross-references services, shows what is working in real time, and helps them balance spend against risk. Forcefield continues to leverage The Keyholding Company’s service partner model, a growing network of highly accredited security specialists across risk consultancy, mobile security, guarding, vacant property protection, systems and monitoring. It is precisely this model which lets them prioritise clients’ needs over resource constraints or hardware surpluses. Highly accredited security specialists Charlie Gordon Lennox, Forcefield CEO, said: “We thought hard before changing a name that people know and trust. But the old name described how we started, not where we are going. The business has grown well beyond keyholding, and we needed a name that reflects what our clients get from us today. What has not changed is who we are, or our drive for continuous innovation.” Abi Shuttleworth, Forcefield Group Managing Director, added: “Our new name reflects a commitment to elevate how physical security gets done. We will deliver that through excellent services and technology that shows clients what is happening across their sites, a partner network built to raise standards across the industry, and the customer focus and culture that have got us this far.” Forcefield’s model is scalable, flexible and built for the long term – making them an excellent choice for clients who demand quality, innovation and alignment in operating values.

Indo Firex, Rescue & Disaster Expo & Forum is strengthening its focus on technological developments that support safer and more effective firefighting operations. Organised by PT Napindo Media Ashatama (Napindo), the exhibition connects industry stakeholders with innovations and solutions across fire protection, rescue operations, disaster management, and occupational safety and health. Recent developments in Indonesia, including the deployment of robotic firefighting equipment by Jakarta’s Fire and Rescue Agency (Gulkarmat), highlight how technology is creating new possibilities for emergency response and safety. In May 2026, Jakarta’s Fire and Rescue Agency (Gulkarmat) deployed the MRF-500 firefighting robot, equipped with cameras and toxic-gas sensors, to support operations in hazardous environments. Advanced firefighting equipment The robot is designed to discharge water during firefighting operations and detect toxic smoke and hazardous gases at fire scenes. This technology helps strengthen firefighter safety when responding to high-risk incidents, particularly in high-rise buildings, basement areas, and industrial facilities where hazardous chemicals may be present. By enabling personnel to assess conditions remotely, the robot can help reduce their exposure to dangerous situations and support more informed operational decisions. Its deployment highlights the growing relevance of advanced firefighting equipment in strengthening Indonesia’s emergency response capabilities. Discover emerging technologies To explore regional developments and connect with international industry stakeholders, Indo Firex, Rescue & Disaster will visit The Fire Safety Event Asia in Singapore on 10–12 November 2026. The visit will provide opportunities to discover emerging technologies, exchange industry insights, and explore solutions relevant to Indonesia’s evolving fire protection and emergency preparedness needs. The international engagement comes as Napindo prepares to introduce a broader direction for the exhibition. Established in 2003 as a dedicated fire-protection exhibition, Indo Firex introduced its expanded identity, Indo Firex, Rescue & Disaster, on 11 August 2026 during the exhibition. The rebranding marks an expansion beyond fire protection to encompass rescue operations, disaster management, and occupational safety and health, with the new identity officially taking effect from the 2027 edition. Beyond fire protection The exhibition’s development is supported by the strong participation achieved through Napindo’s co-located exhibitions in 2026. Held alongside Indo Security, Indonesia International Smart City, Indo Water, Indo Waste & Recycling, and Indo Renergy & Electric, the event brought together 700 companies from 23 countries, fully occupied a 20,000-square-metres exhibition area, and welcomed 17,925 professional visitors over three days. Building on this achievement, the 2027 co-located exhibitions aim to attract more than 700 companies from 30 countries, feature 12 international pavilions, cover a projected exhibition area of 20,800 square metres, and welcome 18,000 visitors. This shared scale offers opportunities for cross-sector collaboration, technology discovery, and business networking.  Encouraging knowledge exchange The 14th Indonesia’s No.1 International Fire Protection, Rescue, Disaster Management, Safety and Health Industry Event, will take place on 24–26 August 2027 at Nusantara International Convention Exhibition (NICE), PIK 2, Tangerang, Indonesia. Through its expanded scope, Napindo aims to bring together government institutions, manufacturers, solution providers, and industry professionals to encourage knowledge exchange across the sector.   Meet the team in Singapore! During its visit to Singapore, the Napindo team will be available to arrange meetings with industry professionals, business partners, and prospective exhibitors interested in exploring opportunities at Indo Firex, Rescue & Disaster 2027 Expo & Forum.

PureTech Systems, the industry pioneer in autonomous perimeter protection software solutions, announces a powerful new integration between its best-in-class PureActiv® platform and Genetec™ Security Center. The enhanced integration supports Genetec™ Security Center version 5.13.2.0 and enables operators to view classification bounding boxes over live video, receive PureActiv® alarms and manage those alarms within their existing Genetec™ workflows. Together, PureActiv® and Genetec™ Security Center deliver unmatched perimeter protection—marrying the industry's most accurate detection and classification, with the lowest nuisance alarm rate in the industry, to the unified security platform operators already trust. Associated camera information The integration delivers alarm descriptions, associated camera information and bounding box metadata from PureActiv® to Genetec™ Security Center. Bounding boxes visually highlight detected and classified targets in real time, giving operators instant, unambiguous visual confirmation of the target that triggered an alarm and the ability to assess activity within the camera view. PureActiv® alarms can be distributed and managed using the alarm-handling capabilities available within Genetec™ Security Center. This allows organisations to bring PureActiv®'s most accurate, lowest-nuisance-alarm detection directly into the environment their security teams already use for monitoring and response—no new consoles and no new training. Lost computer communications In addition to analytics-related alarms, the integration delivers system health status alarms, including video loss, lost computer communications and analytics hindered. These notifications ensure operators are never blind to conditions that could compromise surveillance coverage or analytic performance. “Security teams deserve the most accurate detection available, the fewest nuisance alarms in the industry and clear visibility into the systems they rely on,” said Larry Bowe, founder, chairman and CEO of PureTech Systems. “Our enhanced Genetec™ integration marries PureActiv®’s best-in-class analytics with Genetec™ Security Center to deliver unmatched perimeter protection—bringing alarms and real-time visual context into the operator’s existing workflow so teams can assess events and coordinate a response with confidence.” Accurate threat identification PureActiv® delivers unmatched autonomous perimeter protection through a detect, classify, track, alert and deter workflow. Its Geospatial AI-boosted Video Analytics (GABVA) and sensor integration capabilities deliver the industry's most accurate threat identification with the lowest nuisance alarm rate, and initiate automated deterrence before an intruder penetrates the perimeter. The Genetec™ integration brings this best-in-class detection, alarm information and target overlays directly into existing security operations.

Viking Electronics introduces the MPS-XP Multicast Paging Server, a powerful new solution that combines SIP-based multicast paging, scheduled announcements, and advanced automation in one PoE-powered device. Designed for schools, universities, manufacturing facilities, and commercial buildings, the MPS-XP supports up to 100 SIP accounts, 100 independently configurable multicast zones, and 100 automation rules. Users can page all zones from a single SIP extension, assign dedicated extensions to individual zones, or dial DTMF touch-tone codes to reach specific zones. Changing daily operations A built-in calendar scheduler makes it easy to automate bells, tones, announcements, and other pre-recorded messages. Recurring schedules, exception dates, delays, and skipped events provide added flexibility for changing daily operations. With 2.5 GB of audio storage, the MPS-XP can hold more than 21 hours of pre-recorded audio. Store-and-forward recording allows users to record, review, and approve a page before it is broadcast, providing clear, feedback-free delivery. Four dry-contact trigger inputs can also activate pre-recorded announcements or other automated actions. Built for integration, the MPS-XP features a full REST API, MQTT publish/subscribe with TLS and HTTP webhooks, allowing it to connect with IoT devices, building management systems and other third-party platforms. Secure web interface From everyday announcements to facility-wide notifications, the MPS-XP gives you a flexible, scalable way to manage paging, audio, and automated messaging from a secure web interface. Viking Electronics designs and manufactures over 500 security and communication products, including emergency phones, entry systems, paging interfaces, mass notification systems, and more. Founded in 1969 and based in Hudson, Wisconsin, Viking products are built in the USA and backed by a two-year limited warranty with free lifetime technical support.

Digitalising access presents a specific challenge in heritage buildings: how to protect these premises against 21st-century threats while preserving the unique building fabric? Choosing a programmable smart key system provided the solution at a historic Prague monastery. The Franciscan Monastery is a living space which, in addition to its spiritual mission, hosts exhibitions, baptisms, and community meetings. Managers must therefore effectively control access to individual parts of the building, to retain an overview of the movement of people, and at the same time react flexibly to events. Streamline key management The original access system could no longer meet their requirements. Key management was complex; there was a lack of clarity; and risks associated with the loss or non-return of site keys increased. They wanted to upgrade access security to streamline key management and minimise risks associated with missing keys. Another essential element was that any software for this enhanced control over key and space management should be user-friendly and operable even by non-technical staff. Above all, preserving the historic character of the building was non-negotiable. No invasive installation process was possible. Leaning into ASSA ABLOY expertise in the heritage sector helped monastery managers to identify the right solution. Combining mechanical robustness Based on these requirements, a CLIQ system was the preferred choice. The ASSA ABLOY eCLIQ smart key solution combines mechanical robustness with intelligent electronics; it enables modern access management without any need for cabling. “Even in historic buildings, our eCLIQ smart key system can be implemented efficiently while preserving safety, aesthetics, and flexibility,” explains Ondřej Gajdoš, Acquisition Sales Manager at ASSA ABLOY Opening Solutions. Thirty-five wire-free cylinders were installed and 90 programmable keys distributed, with everything now managed in intuitive software which allows staff to easily set and edit access rights according to evolving needs – whether for employees and visitors, or to stage one-off events. One CLIQ advantage for the monastery is the ability for staff to respond immediately to any risky situation. If someone loses their key, for example, its authorisations are quickly blocked without any need to replace cylinders – saving time and money while also safeguarding security. Streamlining daily operations The CLIQ solution is also wire-free, so installation took place without interfering with the historic structure. It fully respects the architectural value of the building. By deploying CLIQ, the monastery has gained a modern access management tool that significantly increases security while streamlining daily operations. The solution brought not only a higher level of security and more efficient key management, but also the necessary flexibility for more dynamic use of space around the site. If needed, expansion of their system in the future is totally seamless: the CLIQ system’s reach can scale as the monastery’s needs evolve.

Discover how OpenEye Web Services empowered a major U.S. grocery chain to streamline its operations and simplify the management of its video security for more than 140 stores with over 15,000 cameras. Select Systems has been a trusted provider of security solutions for over 30 years, serving grocery stores, retail outlets, and other businesses in the western U.S. Streamlining user management When their long-time customer, a major U.S. grocery chain, approached Select Systems looking to make the move to IP, they requested Select connect with OpenEye and develop an IP solution for new store locations. The hardware is managed through OpenEye Web Services (OWS), which streamlines user management, reduces IT workload, provides actionable intelligence and expedites video export and sharing. In a few short years, Select had installed over 40 stores with the IP solution from OpenEye. During this time, Select Systems was maintaining about 100 existing analogue stores. What began with modernizing one store, grew to more than 140 locations with over 15,000 cameras. Providing actionable intelligence Learn how OpenEye Web Services enabled the national chain to manage its system more remotely and simplify operations by increasing staff access to video. The grocery chain ultimately chose the OWS platform because OpenEye listened to their feedback and developed several new features to specifically address their operational needs: Streamlined user management Reduced IT workload Actionable intelligence Expedited video exporting and sharing

Dubai Parks and Resorts, the Middle East’s largest integrated theme park destination, has introduced Gunnebo Entrance Control’s SpeedStile FLs gates to strengthen safety, security and the overall guest experience across its attractions. Since opening in 2016, Dubai Parks and Resorts has become one of the region’s most popular leisure destinations, welcoming guests from across the world to enjoy more than 100 rides and experiences across its 232-hectare site. Single-person detection technology The resort brings together four award-winning theme parks, a water park, Riverland Dubai as a themed leisure and dining district and the Lapita Hotel Dubai, a Polynesian-style resort designed for families. With its scale and variety, the resort faces the challenge of ensuring guests experience a smooth entry without compromising on safety or security. To meet these requirements, Dubai Parks and Resorts selected Gunnebo Entrance Control’s SpeedStile FLs. Designed for high-traffic environments, the gates combine a sleek design with advanced single-person detection technology to ensure only authorised visitors are granted entry. High level of security Since implementation, visitor entry has become more efficient across the resort, helping guests move smoothly through access points, even during the busiest times of day, while maintaining high security standards. The solution supports both the guest experience and the operational requirements of a large and complex destination, balancing efficient throughput with robust entrance control. The SpeedStile FLs provides valuable data insights on visitor flow, giving management greater visibility into how people move around the site. Gates can also be configured remotely, offering flexibility to adapt to different visitor types and operational requirements. Integrating with the resort’s existing ticketing and validation systems helps the resort optimise staffing and streamline operations, while maintaining a high level of security. Robust entrance control Clear visual indicators and audio signals make them intuitive to use, reducing the need for staff assistance. The gates are also engineered to handle high visitor throughput, coping easily with the surges in footfall that theme parks experience at different times of day. Fadi Yakoub, Project Director for Gunnebo Entrance Control, added: “Dubai Parks and Resorts is a destination recognised worldwide for its scale and ambition. We are proud to see our SpeedStile FLs supporting such a landmark site, helping the team deliver a safe, secure and seamless experience for every guest. It demonstrates how entrance control can go beyond security to add value in both operational efficiency and a seamless visitor experience.”

Premier Inn, Ilford, has completed a major upgrade to its fire alarm infrastructure with the installation of Advanced MxPro 5 fire panels, providing comprehensive Category L1 protection throughout the nine‑storey hotel. As a busy hospitality environment accommodating guests around the clock, the hotel required a robust and reliable fire detection system capable of delivering early warning across all areas of the building. The project involved a full system upgrade, with new detection installed throughout communal spaces, guest bedrooms, kitchen and dining areas, and roof spaces, ensuring maximum protection for both guests and staff. Effective occupant warning The new fire system comprises three Advanced MxPro 5 panels, including two four‑loop panels and one single‑loop panel, networked to cover all nine floors of the hotel. Detection has been installed throughout communal areas and bedrooms, with sounder beacons provided within each bathroom and accessible room to support effective occupant warning. The system is also connected to a pager system to assist hard‑of‑hearing guests, enhancing inclusivity and safety. Haskell Fire & Security Ltd was responsible for the full design, installation, and commissioning of the fire alarm system. The team worked on site to complete the final stages of installation and commissioning as part of the hotel’s refurbishment programme, delivering a modern fire system designed to meet the operational demands of a live hospitality setting. Live hospitality setting Lee Haskell, Managing Director at Haskell Fire & Security Ltd, said: “This project was all about delivering maximum protection without compromise. The MxPro 5 is a fantastic product, and it’s one we specify wherever possible. It gives us the flexibility, reliability and ease of commissioning we need, while providing the client with a system that’s simple to manage and built for the long term.” Advanced’s MxPro 5 was recommended as a replacement for the originally installed system, offering greater flexibility through its open‑protocol design and consistency with fire systems installed across other Premier Inn sites. With powerful processing, intuitive configuration software and extensive cause‑and‑effect capabilities, the panel is well-suited to complex, multi‑storey hospitality buildings. Robust fire protection Salvy Vittozzi, Advanced’s Regional Sales Manager for the South East, added: “Hotels place unique demands on fire systems, with high occupancy, varied risk areas and the need for clear, reliable protection at all times. The MxPro 5 is designed for exactly these environments, combining powerful performance with ease of use for installers and end users alike. The Premier Inn, Ilford installation is a great example of how the system can deliver Category L1 protection across a busy, multi‑floor site.” With the upgrade now complete, Premier Inn, Ilford, benefits from a modern, high‑performance fire alarm system that supports early detection, clear occupant warning and long‑term reliability. The installation demonstrates how Advanced’s MxPro 5 can be successfully deployed in hospitality settings to deliver robust fire protection and peace of mind.