Many businesses put every available dollar into their operation and are doing more with less. Businesses that make the investment to upgrade their security technology, whether it has become obsolete or no longer meets their needs, often notice long-term cost saving and ROI in other areas. Older equipment typically requires monitoring from additional personnel or uses costly communication protocols, which is why many business owners are replacing outdated equipment.

Some companies upgrade to comply with new regulations; others replace existing protocols or outdated technologies that are proving to be too costly. With today’s technology, there’s never been a better time to replace older equipment. Four security trends are encouraging businesses to upgrade:

1. Remote Monitoring for More Freedom

The demand to remotely access, view and control security systems from mobile devices is growing. Business owners are becoming interested in this ability, as it enables them to set alarm systems and remotely view cameras from their smartphones or tablets, providing greater freedom. Remote monitoring systems record and collect video, and is stored in the cloud, so footage can be viewed from anywhere in the world by using a password and secure Internet connection. The newer systems also enable delivery to a remote location via multiple streams over low bandwidth.

2. IP Video for Better Performance

More and more businesses are migrating from outmoded VCR and early DVR analog technology to Internet protocol (IP)-based video surveillance and access control. Many businesses are choosing to undergo migration because analog video has reached its performance peak and does not have the flexibility, functionality, scalability or clarity of current digital systems.

The newer technology is starting to become a cost-conscious solution for smaller security systems with 16 cameras or less. The versatility and scalability of IP cameras enable the system to easily grow as the businesses’ needs expand and change. It is also simple to upgrade because software can be directly downloaded to the camera, and software is less likely to become obsolete, as upgrades are available. The resolution of megapixel cameras zooms in on details without losing quality – providing clear evidence when needed.

Some businesses begin with a hybrid solution that helps to bridge the gap between analog and IP systems. That means analog and IP video can be transmitted simultaneously until fully switching over to IP video.=

3. Access Control to Secure Additional Areas

Mobile devices are also making an impact in the area of access control. Mobile technology enables organizations to be less dependent on costly infrastructure required for connecting servers, panels and readers, as electronic locks respond to a mobile device’s encrypted “open” command. The ability to secure areas in this way allows more companies to secure additional assets, like interior doors, filing cabinets and storage areas, or other parts of the company that might have been cost-prohibitive to secure in the past.

4. Smart Video Surveillance Systems to Eliminate False Alarms

Smart video surveillance systems can process visual information in the same way as humans, distinguishing between certain alarm triggers (like people or cards), sending alerts when predefined rules are violated. Companies are starting to implement these types of systems to reduce storage and bandwidth requirements and help eliminate time wasted on false alarms.

Technology is continually changing, but when it can help your business work smarter while also better protecting your assets, it’s worth upgrading sooner rather than later.

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