Alongside a commitment to providing their students with a high-quality formal education, school administrators and campus security teams typically consider on-site safety and security to be a top priority. However, as new technologies are developed, novel threats emerge, meaning staff must ensure all installed security equipment is designed with longevity and versatility in mind.

Data published in 2021 found that 93% of facility managers working within the education sector had experienced at least one emergency incident caused by infrastructure malfunctions during the previous 12 months, with 45% prioritizing security system updates to prevent further issues.

Thankfully, advancements in smart technology such as the Internet of Things (IoT), cloud-based security management systems and AI software solutions can provide school security personnel with the tools they need to dramatically improve existing security systems. For teams looking to strengthen on-site security, here are 4 innovative campus security technologies for the modern age.

Cloud-based access control

Access control systems have been a staple of property security for decades, however, legacy systems may no longer provide the level of security required for use in educational facilities. Whilst traditional lock and key, PIN code and intercom systems do offer an additional layer of authentication to deter intrusion events, exploits and vulnerabilities can often be easily exposed.

Modern access control solutions, including cloud-based card access systems and mobile credential configurations, can be used to improve school security through remote management technology. By connecting all access readers and wider security devices together using a cloud-based security management system, teams are able to view and adjust active credentials remotely at any time. 

Utilizing such a system allows security staff to program automated alerts in response to unique criteria, meaning on-site personnel will be immediately notified of suspicious activity and able to respond accordingly. Compromised credentials can be revoked remotely, real-time access logs can be viewed and wider devices like nearby cameras can be accessed from the same platform.

AI-informed video security 

Installed video security cameras are an essential aspect of all school security systems, acting as both a deterrent for physical crimes and a means of securing evidence of criminal behavior. However, delegating security staff to monitor live camera feeds can put a strain on departments with limited resources, leaving fewer staff members available to provide student-facing support.

For this reason, many modern campuses are exploring the use of AI video security integrations, enabling human teams to retain a physical security presence with real-time alerts helping staff to better focus their attention on unfolding incidents. AI solutions are programmed to automatically identify anomalous events, meaning staff no longer need to manually monitor live camera feeds.

When connected to a wider cloud-based management platform, AI software tools can be left to scan live footage in search of potential incidents. For example, outdoor PTZ cameras can scan open areas autonomously and be programmed to alert staff remotely if contraband items are detected, crowds form in unusual areas or if motion is detected in supposedly restricted areas.

IoT-enabled automation 

School security teams can utilize a wide range of IoT-enabled sensors and actuators to create automated incident responses. IoT devices are designed to communicate digital data wirelessly over a secure internet connection, allowing these tools to instruct the operation of wider security devices, and send real-time alerts to security personnel if connected to a cloud-based platform.

For example, IoT temperature sensors can be integrated into existing fire suppression systems and programmed to activate hardware units in response to suspected fires. IoT noise detectors can be used to trigger full-site lockdowns if sounds consistent with an attempted break-in are detected, and IoT motion sensors can automatically notify staff of suspected intrusion events.

IoT devices are highly customizable, allowing admins to develop bespoke responses to specific events, meaning teams can freely adjust installed security systems to meet their unique needs. In addition, IoT environmental sensors can be integrated alongside existing HVAC and building management systems to automate heating and lighting controls and improve energy efficiency.

Cybersecurity protections 

Developing a smart school security system designed to provide admins with remote-access controls and real-time alerts requires teams to connect numerous internet-connected devices together, meaning security and IT staff must adhere to cybersecurity best practices to prevent sensitive data from being compromised. Thankfully, smart technology can provide assistance. 

Primarily, school security and IT teams should create multi-factor authentication (MFA) policies used to secure access to security devices behind layered credentials. A typical MFA process will require authorized users to input traditional login credentials, followed by additional information from an external source. Examples include one-time codes sent via SMS, biometric data such as a fingerprint scan or a digital signature used to secure access behind additional verification.

Teams should also ensure all data transmissions sent between active devices are encrypted using dedicated encryption software, and that all security devices are frequently updated to prevent new vulnerabilities from being exposed. It’s wise for security and IT teams to create and oversee these polices together to ensure both divisions know how to operate systems safely.  

Summary

Ensuring that staff and students are protected from physical threats remains a top priority for school administrators and campus security teams, though overseeing the operation of legacy security systems can be both time-consuming and resource-draining. By investing in smart technologies such as cloud-based access control systems, AI-informed security cameras and IoT sensors, security teams can develop proactive systems and informed incident responses.