Cybersecurity and Access Control

Interconnectivity between devices, which is now seen as a priority for organizations, undoubtedly comes with an enhanced risk of security threats. Cybersecurity can no longer be ignored as organizations continue to integrate physical security products; the possibility and severity of a data breach rises significantly as more devices are added to one universal network. But as many leaders know, increased risk doesn’t automatically mean an increase in an organization‘s security budget or preparedness plans.

Over the last several years, the security industry has seen a large number of integrations in areas such as video surveillance and video management software in an effort to better protect businesses and enterprise applications. But nowhere is the integration scope more progressive than the collaboration between those that set and manage corporate network policy (i.e. IT executives) and security teams, particularly in regard to access control.
When a company is building or updating their security solution, attention to cyber threats is crucial. Therefore, it‘s critical that the IT department is consulted to ensure proper data safety protocols are being followed. A hack into an organization‘s private information can be catastrophic, and oftentimes intruders are looking for sensitive material relating to people‘s personal lives, such as social security numbers. Employing the help of an IT team can ensure such data is comprehensively secured. IT professionals are already well versed in the ins and outs of a company‘s computers, network and software, and they share the common goal of protecting critical data and keeping outsiders out.
By shifting access control from a siloed system within the security department to the inclusion of technologically advanced teams in charge of network security, trained IT specialists and CIOs can offer valuable input when it comes to security decisions. Benefits of this collaboration are often realized through five key practices:

1. Utilize enhanced security. IT pros have a more extensive knowledge of the protections that must be in place when devices are placed on the network, and as more and more Internet of Things (IoT) devices are used, the risk grows. Proper protocols must be in place to protect the data being communicated, and IT knows how to do this. They also understand the customer’s corporate policy objectives to ensure the solution meets or exceeds their requirements.
2. Have conversations about new trends and technology. Security software and hardware are advancing every day, and staying up to date with the latest network security practices is critical to avoid vulnerability to outside threats. Network security professionals already focus on using the latest technology, such as updates and patches, making them a great resource to help create the most comprehensive and modern security system.
3. Explore the cost benefits of various solutions. Depending on the situation, it might make sense to move forward with a cloud-based solution, whereas another may benefit from a more traditional in-house security system. There can be cost benefits to each, so it is extremely important to have a full understanding of the customer’s requirements and environment.
4. Streamline solutions. Bringing different kinds of data into one uniform platform enhances operational efficiencies. A single point of data entry on a campus, for example, saves notable resources and time by allowing all input and updates to take place in a centralized location.
5. Leverage simplified training. Training security personnel becomes easier with the engagement of network security professionals, reducing the amount of time spent on learning complex software systems. IT personnel can be extremely helpful and knowledgable when it comes to the ongoing management of access control solutions.

A strong relationship between access control and network security professionals is invaluable as the IoT continues to progress. Involving IT professionals in access control discussions and understanding your customer’s network security needs up front is vital to maintaining an organization‘s overall security.