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.

Acoem, a pioneer in advanced acoustic threat detection solutions, announces two software updates for its Acoustic Threat Detection (ATD) Gunshot Detection System, introducing individual sensor-level elevation tuning and enhanced acoustic analytics to address anomalies that can resemble gunshot detection signals. False positives remain an operational challenge for organisations using acoustic threat detection across campuses, critical infrastructure, utilities and communities, particularly in environments where hills, buildings and other environmental changes that affect the surrounding skyline can complicate classification. For security teams, those conditions can mean more alerts to review and more time spent determining which events actually require a response. Accurately classify fireworks Acoem’s latest Cadence software release addresses this challenge by allowing administrators to set elevation and horizon thresholds for individual sensors based on their surrounding environment. This is useful in areas where loud noises like fireworks are common, as their acoustic characteristics can be similar to gunshots. The elevation threshold helps the system more accurately classify fireworks and other skyline noise as non-threats. Across larger deployments, administrators can also tailor individual sensors to local conditions rather than applying the same settings across an entire fleet. Acoem is also refining its AI methodology with changes to acoustic signal and noise analytics intended to further detect anomalies and reduce false positives. The update builds on the company’s data science expertise to improve how the system distinguishes potential gunfire from surrounding noise. Backend server infrastructure These changes provide better and more accurate information and build on existing Acoem ATD capabilities including: Dual-detection capability: Employs shockwave-enhanced muzzle-blast detection to analyse acoustic signatures, ensuring highly reliable gunshot verification across both urban and rural environments. 96-attribute analysis: Uses an onboard AI neural network to instantly analyse acoustic events and filter out ambient noise and urban distractions. Edge-based processing: Verifies threats locally at the sensor in real time, eliminating latency and reducing reliance on backend server infrastructure. PTZ camera integration: Instantly directs connected PTZ cameras toward the origin of a detected acoustic threat, delivering immediate visual confirmation for actionable situational awareness. Backend server infrastructure “The volume of security system alarms are one of the biggest drains on security resources today. This update highlights how we leverage our deep data science expertise to continuously evolve our technology alongside our customers,” said Mike ODea, Managing Director, Acoem ATD. “By giving teams the ability to adapt detection to their specific environments, we're delivering the most flexible, accurate acoustic threat protection available to keep communities and critical infrastructure safe.” The software updates will be available in Q4 2026 for existing customers and they will have the option to apply the updates through the Cadence software platform. System administrators will receive official release notes ahead of the rollout, with over-the-network updates delivered directly to edge sensors without requiring additional backend server infrastructure. To learn more about Acoem Acoustic Threat Detection or to schedule an environment-tuning presentation, visit acoemATD.com or contact Acoem ATD representative.

SwiftConnect, the connected access network for places and spaces, announces that international law firm Watson Farley & Williams (WFW) has launched company badges across major digital wallets for mobile-only access at its new London office at 25 Moorgate. As WFW prepared to relocate, more than 450 of their lawyers and staff were provisioned with a mobile credential ahead of their move-in. “Using mobile access at 25 Moorgate from day one is another example of how Watson Farley & Williams is investing in forward-thinking technology across the firm,” said Steven Bridger, Global Head of IT Projects and Change at WFW. “Working with SwiftConnect meant we could give our people an easy and secure way to access the building using their Apple and Android devices versus fumbling for a plastic badge at the turnstile, office doors, smart lockers and printers.” Manually managing plastic cards SwiftConnect’s connected access network integrates the firm’s IT and access control systems, HID credentials and readers, and the mobile app for an effortless Street-to-Seat® experience: WFW employees can now access everything from the base building lobby turnstiles to office spaces and lockers with Vecos Adaptive Workplace Storage technology–all using their mobile devices. Phoenix Trescray led the installation and configuration of the firm’s access control system in their new building. “Watson Farley & Williams wanted a mobile wallet and Street-to-Seat access experience done properly, and we are glad they turned to SwiftConnect, putting WFW among other security-conscious enterprises who look to us to deliver intuitive and modern solutions,” said Brandon Arcement, Vice Chairman at SwiftConnect. “Our connected access network enables an on-demand, self-service access experience that removes friction for employees and frees security administrators from time-consuming, manual processes.” The deployment contributes to the firm’s vision to create a technology-first, experience-driven workplace, while advancing their sustainability goals–empowering them to remotely issue and revoke digital passes versus printing and manually managing plastic cards.

F5, the global pioneer in delivering and securing every app and API, announces enhanced cloud-native network functions and new observability capabilities that help service providers modernise critical network services as they move from virtualised infrastructure to Kubernetes and cloud-native architectures. Service providers are under pressure to support growing 5G, edge, IT, and emerging AI workloads, boost efficiency, and maintain the performance, security, and operational control required for carrier-grade services. Moving network functions to Kubernetes lets operators use infrastructure more flexibly but also introduces additional requirements for traffic management, security, lifecycle operations, and visibility across increasingly distributed environments. F5 now accelerates this transition. Increasingly distributed environments “Service providers should not have to choose between cloud-native agility and the performance, security, and control required for critical network infrastructure,” said Kunal Anand, Chief Product Officer at F5. “BIG-IP Cloud-Native Edition brings proven F5 BIG-IP capabilities into Kubernetes, giving network and cloud operations teams a more consistent way to deploy, secure, observe, and operate 5G, edge, and AI infrastructure at scale.” Independent testing by The Tolly Group of selected BIG-IP Cloud-Native Network Functions within BIG-IP Cloud-Native Edition demonstrated substantial infrastructure-efficiency gains in Kubernetes-based DNS and CGNAT workloads compared with virtualised network function deployments. In a DNS scenario, F5 processed 1.9x more queries per second while using 91.5% less CPU. In a CGNAT scenario, F5 delivered comparable throughput while using 79.7% less CPU and 98.5% less memory. Infrastructure-efficiency gains F5 BIG-IP Cloud-Native Edition extends capabilities from the F5 Application Delivery and Security Platform within Kubernetes-based service provider environments, bringing together complementary capabilities across cloud-native networking, application delivery, security, and observability. BIG-IP Cloud-Native Network Functions extend core BIG-IP network and security services into Kubernetes-native environments, including DNS, CGNAT, network security, subscriber policy enforcement, and traffic management. BIG-IP Next for Kubernetes operates at the Kubernetes network layer, providing networking, application delivery, security, and manageability. BIG-IP eBPF Observability provides kernel-level application and network visibility for troubleshooting distributed environments. Kernel-level application Enhanced F5 BIG-IP Cloud-Native Network Functions provide Kubernetes-native traffic management and security capabilities designed for service provider environments. Expanded traffic management: Broad Layer 4–7 support, including ingress and egress networking and support for TCP, UDP, HTTP/2, Diameter, SCTP, GTP, and SIP, helps operators move a wider range of network services into Kubernetes rather than limiting modernisation to HTTP-based applications. Subscriber-aware policy enforcement: Operators can dynamically apply quality-of-service (QoS), traffic-shaping, and content-filtering policies based on subscriber and service requirements, supporting differentiated services while maintaining consistent policy enforcement. Cloud-native lifecycle management: Kubernetes-native deployment and management workflows let teams automate common configuration and lifecycle tasks as network functions move from VM-based to containerised infrastructure. Kubernetes-native deployments By moving these services into Kubernetes-native deployments, operators can make more flexible use of compute and memory resources, more efficiently using infrastructure as network traffic and service demands grow. Network, security, application, and platform teams often rely on different tools when troubleshooting the same problem. New F5 BIG-IP eBPF Observability provides a consistent source of application and network telemetry across distributed Kubernetes clusters, enabling teams to examine app behaviour, container activity, and network flows together when investigating performance or connectivity issues. Real-time, low-overhead telemetry: Operations teams gain granular network and app insights across Kubernetes environments without requiring application-by-application instrumentation. Scalable visibility: Kubernetes-native deployment models and a resource-efficient architecture support visibility across distributed environments, helping teams investigate issues without adding another heavy monitoring layer. Shared operational context: BIG-IP eBPF Observability provides correlated application and network context to determine whether an issue originates in the application, container, or network to reduce investigation time. Virtualised network function deployments The Tolly Group tested BIG-IP Cloud-Native Network Functions against virtualised network function deployments in the same Kubernetes environment across two essential service provider workloads. DNS: F5 processed 1.9x more queries per second with 91.5% less CPU demand and 48% lower average latency than the tested VNF configuration. CGNAT: F5 delivered comparable throughput with 79.7% less CPU demand, 98.5% less memory consumption, and 82% lower p95 latency than the tested VNF configuration. These results demonstrate how Kubernetes-native network functions can help operators increase workload density and reduce infrastructure requirements for the workloads tested. Critical networking and security services Service providers have relied on BIG-IP across physical and virtual infrastructure for critical networking and security services. As those environments increasingly incorporate Kubernetes, F5 is extending those capabilities into the architectures operators are adopting while providing a path to maintain familiar operational models and policies. BIG-IP Cloud-Native Edition gives service providers a broader cloud-native solution across traffic management, networking, security, and observability. It also creates opportunities for operators to adopt additional F5 capabilities as their infrastructure evolves across 5G core, edge, IT, and newer workload environments. BIG-IP Cloud-Native Network Functions, BIG-IP Next for Kubernetes, and BIG-IP eBPF Observability address different layers of that transition while helping customers maintain familiar networking, security, and operational models. BIG-IP Cloud-Native Edition and the capabilities highlighted in this announcement are available now for service provider environments.

Colt Technology Services, the global digital infrastructure company, announces that it is the first network service provider to offer a fully managed service for the proven enterprise networking technology solution named SCION (Scalability, Control and Isolation on Next Generation Networks) in Europe, North America and Asia. SCION technology has been developed in Switzerland by technology company Anapaya and is widely used across critical infrastructure, including the Swiss financial community. Combining Anapaya’s pioneering technology with Colt’s global network, operations and enterprise connectivity expertise, Colt SCION delivers next-level resilient networking, ideal for organisations with highly sensitive, regulated or mission-critical network requirements, including energy, healthcare, government, defence and global financial organisations. Mission-critical network requirements With data sovereignty and cybersecurity at the top of today’s boardroom agenda, organisations require complete visibility and control over their data flows. While traditional internet- or IP-based Wide Area Networks (WANs) can provide some visibility over where data travels, Colt SCION gives customers deeper levels of control and complete transparency of their data: organisations can define, audit and enforce exactly how their data travels end-to-end. This helps them meet regulatory requirements, support data sovereignty needs and deliver more predictable performance. Built with resilience and security at its core, this solution helps keep services running smoothly while protecting data from disruption, interception and other network-based threats. High-quality infrastructure Peter Coppens, VP - Product, Colt Technology Services, says, “Trust, resilience and control are non-negotiable for organisations handling critical data. Colt SCION delivers all three, giving enterprises greater assurance over how their data travels. As the first provider to bring SCION-enabled connectivity across Europe, North America and Asia, Colt combines a new security standard with the reach and control of its own global infrastructure.” “Colt’s new SCION-based products will make its advanced security and resilience capabilities available on a global high-quality infrastructure—when the need has never been greater. AI is enabling attackers to automate and scale increasingly sophisticated attacks, while the consequences of downtime for critical services are immediate. Organisations need new approaches to isolate and protect critical services against attacks from the public internet. SCION has proven secure and reliable in these challenging times as critical services are increasingly under heavy attack,” says Martin Bosshardt, CEO of Anapaya. Safeguarding critical data Colt SCION is now commercially available following a two-year proof of concept. Colt worked with developer Anapaya, who rigorously tested and validated the technology with several organisations in the financial sector already using the solution to give them deeper observability and to safeguard their critical data. Businesses can choose from two SCION solutions, each serving different networking needs: Colt SCION Private provides resilient connectivity to existing private ecosystems and extranets, suiting financial institutions looking to connect to existing private domains through partners. Colt SCION Global is a highly secure WAN solution, ideal for organisations looking for an ultra-resilient, secure, sovereign technology on which to build their backbone network infrastructure.

At the Toronto Zoo, every person on site – whether that’s a keeper, security officer, scientist, or volunteer - shares one vision: create a world where people, wildlife, and wild spaces thrive. Thirty minutes from downtown Toronto lies a 500-acre campus that is home to over 2000 animals across 200 species. Welcoming 1.3 million guests each year, Toronto Zoo is a world-class operation on a mission to connect people, animals, conservation science, and traditional knowledge to fight extinction. When Toronto Zoo Supervisor of Health & Safety Services, Graham Birtles, set out to modernise the Zoo’s legacy access and alarm infrastructure, he discovered that the partner he already trusted for animal enclosure fencing was the same one now leading the way in physical security and access control. World-class operation The Toronto Zoo opened in 1974 with a goal that extended well beyond exhibition. Today, its work spans conservation science, breeding programs for endangered species, community education, and climate advocacy. Its Guardians of Wild program extends that belief outward, inviting staff, guests, and partner organisations to champion wildlife beyond the Zoo’s borders: in policy, community relations, and corporate engagement. “My everyday is somebody else’s once-in-a-lifetime experience,” says Graham. “We want every person who comes through these gates to leave understanding what the Toronto Zoo is about, and what they can personally do to make a change.” Delivering that experience safely for guests, staff, and the animals themselves demanded a security platform fit for the job. Rapid emergency response Before Gallagher Security, the Zoo’s access control and alarm infrastructure had not kept pace with the scale of operations. Mobile alerting was unavailable to officers in the field, credentialling hundreds of seasonal staff required plastic cards that were slow to issue and difficult to track, and there was no integration with the Zoo’s video management system to support rapid emergency response. There was also a unique challenge facing the Zoo team: the electric perimeter fencing around animal enclosures - the secondary layer of protection between the animals and the wider Zoo environment - operated as an entirely separate system, disconnected from the broader infrastructure. Following an animal containment incident that was escalated to security leadership, the need to bridge those two systems became urgent. Graham found the solution at a security trade show, when his integrator walked him toward a familiar orange booth. Higher voltage requirements “I said, I already know Gallagher. They’re my fence people. They’ve been taking care of our fencing systems for over 50 years at the Toronto Zoo.” What Graham didn’t yet know was that Gallagher also delivered enterprise-grade physical security, making Toronto Zoo’s path to world-class operations clear. Working together, Gallagher Security and Gallagher Animal Management designed and implemented an integration between Gallagher Command Centre and the Zoo’s Animal Management energiser systems, enabling real-time communication between animal fencing infrastructure and the security platform for the first time. Higher voltage requirements The implementation required calibration for significantly higher voltage requirements than traditional smaller animal environments, ensuring safe and effective management across large species habitats. The Zoo team worked closely with Gallagher’s experts to configure their setup, and the solution is now fully operational within the orangutan habitat. “Now we can see the voltage of our fences at all times,” says Graham. “We can send alerts to our wildlife care team the moment something touches the hot wire so we can make sure the animals are safe.” When an alert is triggered, integrated CCTV allows the wildlife care team to immediately verify the event and assess the situation before responding; a critical functionality for animal safety. The Zoo’s security needs extend well beyond its animal habitats, and the Gallagher platform has delivered. Persistent administrative challenges Mobile Credentials have addressed one of the most persistent administrative challenges on site. With hundreds of contractors and seasonal catering staff requiring access at any given time, the previous reliance on plastic cards was slow and difficult to manage. Now, time-limited mobile credentials are issued on sign-in and revoked automatically on sign-out, removing the risk of residual access. For officers in the field, Gallagher Mobile Connect removed the need to return to base to manage alarms. Officers maintain full situational awareness from their vehicles around the clock, long after the central control center closes. Further integration with 27 Axis intercoms in high-risk spaces - housing venomous snakes, spiders, and other dangerous species - ensure staff working alone in those environments are never out of reach. Restricting workshop equipment “We can monitor alarms throughout the Zoo; not just for traditional break-and-enter or door-open scenarios. We are monitoring life-safety systems, fire systems, animal conditions, and more,” says Graham. What has distinguished the Toronto Zoo’s deployment is not any single feature, but the broad range of problems the Gallagher platform has been called on to solve. New challenges from across the organisation are allowing Graham and his team to unlock more value from their security system. Whether it is monitoring environmental conditions within animal habitats, restricting workshop equipment to trained operators, or ensuring staff cannot access sensitive areas until their training is verified, the answer has consistently been found within the same platform. Conventional vendor relationship “I like that I can call on the Gallagher team and they will work with us to find a solution,” says Graham. “Gallagher has become a house brand here at the Toronto Zoo. It’s integrated with everything we do,” Graham Birtles, Supervisor of Health & Safety Service. The Zoo’s collaboration with Gallagher has not been a conventional vendor relationship. Graham describes it as a convergence of purpose. “When we partner with organisations such as Gallagher, they become Guardians of Wild,” he says. “Because they help me and the Toronto Zoo accomplish our mission.” The Gallagher platform will play a central role in the Zoo’s next chapter. A new Community Conservation Centre, developed with a local university, will soon bring classrooms, laboratories, and a new otter river habitat into a shared community space; with Command Centre managing access for students, professors, and  visiting groups. “Gallagher understands our mission,” says Graham. “They are very helpful, and everything they have put in place for us has worked. The flexibility has been fantastic.” This installation was deployed in partnership with Met-Scan Canada Ltd

Genetec Inc, the pioneer in enterprise physical security software, announces Cairo Bank has successfully deployed the Genetec Security Center platform transforming how the financial institution monitors, manages, and optimises operations across one of Egypt’s largest branch networks. Cairo Bank is one of the largest and oldest financial institutions in Egypt, serving over three million customers through more than 230 branches. The security advancement was driven by new regulatory requirements from the Central Bank of Egypt, alongside Cairo Bank’s broader digital transformation agenda aligned with Egypt Vision 2030. Beyond compliance, the bank needed a scalable operational intelligence foundation to strengthen oversight, improve customer experience, and support long-term expansion and financial inclusion. Necessary operational foundation The implementation unifies video surveillance, access control, and intrusion detection into a single platform, allowing operators to centrally manage more than 6,000 cameras across 122 active branches, with deployment across the full network nearing completion. The platform provides the necessary operational foundation for a centralised Command and Control Room, where operators can monitor branch activity, coordinate response, and support decision-making across the institution. The system also separates operational responsibilities. IT and security teams can monitor device health and system status without accessing sensitive video feeds, supporting strict data governance and privacy requirements. “Unification and scalability were just the starting points. From day one, I knew we wanted functionalities that add value to all aspects of our operations. Security Center delivered everything we wanted in one easy-to-use solution,” said Major General Hesham Tawfiq, Head of Security at Cairo Bank. Enhancing operational consistency Beyond traditional surveillance, the platform introduces automation and analytics capabilities that support both security and operational decision-making across its branch network. These capabilities are now embedded across the entire branch network, helping Cairo Bank strengthen compliance reporting, improve risk detection, and enhance operational consistency at scale. The platform also provides insights into branch activity patterns, customer flow, and operational trends, extending the value of security data beyond incident monitoring while keeping governance and operational control central to the deployment. Existing infrastructure investments Security Center’s open architecture allowed Cairo Bank to integrate best-of-breed hardware while preserving existing infrastructure investments. It also enables the bank to add technologies and expand the deployment over time without standardising on a single hardware provider. “We are honoured to work with a forward-thinking institution like Cairo Bank that continuously seeks new ways to leverage technology,” said Firas Jadalla, Regional Director, Middle East & Africa at Genetec Inc. “By unifying systems, the bank is building a consistent operational foundation for its branch network, allowing it to respond to changing regulatory and operational requirements while retaining control over how its environment evolves.” Providing technical support Integrated Technics, the systems integrator responsible for delivering the project, led the proof of concept, system design and implementation. The company continues to provide technical support and system optimisation as the deployment expands. “The Command and Control Room gives Cairo Bank a real-time operational hub built on Security Center, bringing video surveillance, access control and intrusion detection into a single interface. This enables operators to monitor activity across the branch network, coordinate responses and make faster, more informed decisions,” said Walid Alagamy, CEO of Integrated Technics.

Atyrau, one of Kazakhstan’s key regional cities, has been steadily advancing its urban development while facing growing demands on its road and traffic infrastructure. As vehicle volume increased and urban mobility became more complex, the city needed a smarter, more efficient way to manage traffic flow, improve road safety, and support the daily movement of residents, commuters, and pedestrians. In response, Dahua Technology delivered an intelligent signal control solution designed to enhance city infrastructure, improve mobility, and contribute to a safer and more sustainable urban environment. Critical traffic management Located in western Kazakhstan, Atyrau plays an important role as a regional economic and transportation hub. With continuous urban growth, the city’s roads have become increasingly busy, especially during peak hours. However, parts of the region’s road infrastructure remained insufficient, with some major roads lacking adequate traffic signs and signal lights. This created challenges for both vehicles and pedestrians, making traffic management more difficult and increasing safety risks across key intersections. Before the project, Atyrau faced several critical traffic management pain points Before the project, Atyrau faced several critical traffic management pain points. Congestion during peak hours had become increasingly prominent, requiring a cost-effective and flexible signal control system that could adapt to different road scenarios. In addition, unclear traffic lights and gaps in traffic management contributed to disorderly traffic conditions, including a serious chain collision involving nearly 100 vehicles in 2025. Increasing maintenance difficulty The city also needed a solution that would be easy to deploy and maintain. Many mainstream signal control systems are technically complex, which can increase maintenance difficulty and operational costs. For a growing city like Atyrau, the government required a practical system that could be quickly deployed, remotely commissioned, and adjusted with minimal disruption to citizens’ daily lives. To address these challenges, Dahua provided an intelligent traffic signal control solution combining signal controllers, signal lights, and traffic flow cameras. The system uses AI-powered traffic flow analysis to predict and manage traffic conditions with high detection accuracy, even in complex road environments. By synchronising traffic flow data in real time across multiple intersections, the system can dynamically adjust signal timing and generate optimised timing plans. Adaptive control capability A key advantage of Dahua’s solution is its simple deployment and adaptive control capability A key advantage of Dahua’s solution is its simple deployment and adaptive control capability. The system is designed to be easy to install, debug, maintain, and optimise, allowing traffic control strategies to be adjusted within seconds. This flexibility helps traffic departments respond more effectively to changing road conditions while reducing the burden on traffic enforcement and management teams. Dahua also provided professional traffic signal services, including green wave optimisation and traffic management support. Through its expert team and technical assistance, Dahua helped launch the first signal control demonstration project in the Eurasia region, strengthening local smart transportation capabilities and expanding the ecosystem of technical cooperation. The project also established a replicable model for medium-sized cities across Central Asia and other emerging markets, demonstrating how AI-powered urban mobility solutions can improve transportation efficiency, road safety, and sustainability with practical investment efficiency. Key adaptive intersections Following the deployment of the AI-driven intelligent traffic signal control system, Atyrau achieved significant improvements in urban mobility efficiency and traffic operations. Based on preliminary operational observations and traffic flow analysis at key adaptive intersections, peak-hour traffic efficiency increased by more than 15%, while average vehicle delay time was reduced by approximately 20%. The adaptive signal optimisation capability also improved traffic throughput across major corridors by an estimated 12–18%, helping reduce congestion during busy periods. Atyrau achieved significant improvements in urban mobility efficiency and traffic operations By enabling real-time traffic analytics and dynamic signal coordination, the project reduced unnecessary vehicle idling time by an estimated 18%, contributing to lower fuel consumption and carbon emissions. Operationally, the intelligent traffic management framework reduced manual traffic intervention requirements by approximately 30%, allowing local traffic authorities to respond more efficiently to changing road conditions through data-driven decision-making. Greener urban environment Beyond traffic efficiency, the project brings wider value to the city and its residents. Smoother traffic flow helps reduce unnecessary idling and emissions, contributing to a greener urban environment. Safer and more orderly intersections improve mobility for drivers and pedestrians, while intelligent infrastructure supports the city’s long-term vision of digital transformation. By combining AI, real-time data, and adaptive signal control, Dahua’s solution helps Atyrau move toward a smarter, safer, and more sustainable future.

TECOM Group has enhanced security and accessibility across several of its flagship developments in Dubai, including Dubai Media City, with the installation of advanced Gunnebo Entrance Control solutions. Since its establishment in 1999, TECOM has shaped Dubai’s landscape as a hub for business and innovation. Its ten business districts, including Dubai Internet City, Dubai Knowledge Park and Dubai Design District (d3), are home to nearly 12,000 companies employing more than 124,000 people. Entrance control solution Developments like Dubai Media City welcome thousands of people every day, serving as both workplaces and collaborative hubs where ideas and intellectual property are shared. This made it essential for TECOM to implement an entrance control solution capable of maintaining robust security while preserving the smooth flow of people and the open, professional atmosphere expected across its developments. Following a competitive tender, Gunnebo Entrance Control was appointed to combine advanced entrance control, seamless integration with wider access control systems and a sleek design suited to modern commercial environments. More than 40 SpeedStile FLs gates were installed across several buildings, chosen for their performance, adaptability and ability to support high volumes of daily movement without compromising the visitor experience. Access control technology The SpeedStile FLs features a slim, contemporary appearance designed to complement modern commercial spaces. Beyond aesthetics, it incorporates advanced single-person detection systems, monitoring tailgating, piggybacking and unauthorised attempts to access secure areas. Audible alerts assist on-site teams, while third-party integration ensures compatibility with existing access control technology, including group movement through card stacking capabilities. For TECOM, this blend of security technology and design has delivered both reassurance and efficiency. By implementing SpeedStile FLs across its developments, the Group has strengthened security while preserving the collaborative and welcoming environment that defines its business communities. Fadi Yakoub concluded: “TECOM communities attract some of the world’s biggest names alongside dynamic start-ups, making them vital contributors to the region’s knowledge and creative economy. We are proud of our long-term partnership to deliver seamless entrance control solutions across their developments. The SpeedStile FLs provides flexible, reliable management of people flow, while also creating a welcoming and professional first impression for business communities.”