Peter Currie and John Allen consider the growing requirements for unifying video surveillance with access control, and explore AXIS Camera Station Secure Entry, a combined solution offered by Axis.
The physical security of premises, assets and people is of vital importance. Network video cameras are a key part of any modern security provision, with advances in edge processing and analytical capabilities resulting in a solution that can not only improve security but also drive business optimisation. Access control continues to evolve too, with the COVID-19 pandemic presenting new challenges and making it more important than ever to be able to monitor and control exactly who is entering or leaving a building or site. The move to a more frictionless, touch-free mode of operation has enabled a safer customer experience which avoids the touching of shared services, but still maintains high levels of security.
The combination of video surveillance and access control has proven to be a winning formula, providing comprehensive cover for businesses of all sizes across many industries and sectors. While individual security solutions offer high levels of protection, it is the ability to manage them effectively which unlocks real efficiencies and multiple benefits for an organisation. Businesses should not need to compromise on any aspect of security, so implementing an effective solution that will allow full management of their entire system brings complete peace of mind. In response to customer feedback, Axis has launched AXIS Camera Station Secure Entry. This latest edition to the management software unites video surveillance and access control, two of the most critical areas of security, into a unified solution which unlocks additional value.
The advantages of a unified approach
When considering a security solution that will enable today’s businesses to face their challenges, AXIS Camera Station Secure Entry allows for a unified system, in which the whole is certainly greater than the sum of its parts. It’s important for every business to have access to the highest quality video surveillance technology, combined with the best software for monitoring and management.
While individual technologies can deliver related benefits that can be combined when they are integrated, this can be cumbersome, often involving multiple vendors with the logistical and financial headaches that accompany such an approach.
Axis’ unified method, using a single platform, offers an easy to use interface with benefits of security, operational efficiency and cost effectiveness. Providing such comprehensive end-to-end solutions built on open platforms not only encourages greater partner collaboration, but also ensures that every element is validated to work together, operating in accordance with the highest principles of cybersecurity.
Securing entrance and exit points
Axis constantly strives to meet new customer demand, enlarging its IP product portfolio to include audio, radar technology and body worn cameras; all important components in an overarching, comprehensive security solution for protecting premises, assets and people. Axis’ video management software serves as the hub to control and effectively manage multiple devices, and as it continues to evolve, will increasingly become the command centre through which multiple Axis solutions, together with those from trusted partners, can be unified for an overarching and comprehensive security provision.
With three-fold benefits around the live monitoring of access points, assistance in allowing access and post-incident investigation, AXIS Camera Station Secure Entry offers a range of options to suit all businesses and sectors, allowing coverage of small or large numbers of entrance and exit points. The management of cardholders and groups is straightforward, as is the simple creation of access rules, such as schedules, locations and credentials. Beyond this, the system includes door and zone configurations, multi-factor authentication and customisable card formats. Old style cards are now substituted for PVC-free alternatives, in line with Axis’ commitment to greener and more sustainable methods and practices.
Video verification and incident response
Verification using video surveillance allows operators to check that any individual attempting to enter a premises matches the credentials held on the system. In addition, for less busy entrances or out of normal working hours, it’s possible to trigger video recording and the playing of pre-recorded audio alerts and alarms. These can be activated in response to specific pre-determined events, such as the length of time that a door is open. In addition, the solution makes it simple to add new users, or remove those who are no longer authorised for access, with a dedicated dashboard allowing users to confirm lock status and assist entry by permitting an operator to control doors.
Access points to buildings can, unfortunately, become flash points for incidents. Whether it’s someone attempting a forced entry or an employee becoming frustrated with credentials not working or being rejected, the video recording of access points is valuable in investigating incidents after they have taken place. AXIS Camera Station Secure Entry allows operators to search, find and review video of anyone entering a building, or being denied access; the combination of video and access control logs making it straightforward to investigate an incident, with functionality for simply and quickly packing and exporting video data for the attention of relevant authorities.
A comprehensive end-to-end security solution
An entire end-to-end solution comprising of many security technologies can be effectively monitored and configured to work together through a single vendor-supported system. Such a solution can support the growth of a company’s security provision as both the business and the technology grow. A trusted partnership with a single provider increases reliability, as the entire system can be treated as one dedicated solution, unified and customised to meet a customer’s needs.
AXIS Camera Station is constantly growing to support changing business and security requirements, while simultaneously evolving to meet the next generation of threats and cybersecurity regulations. It is a powerful package that provides high levels of security to protect and support modern organisations across many industries and sectors. A truly unified approach is now central to Axis’ vision of innovating for a smarter, safer world.