F E AT U R E
Smarter Planning, Better Protection N E W T E C H N O LO GY I S R E S H A P I N G H OW B U S I N E S S E S P R E PA R E F O R A N D R E S P O N D T O T H R E AT S . By Randy Krebs
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hether protecting property from breakins or keeping digital records safe from the ever-changing tactics of cybercriminals, small business owners face a constant array of security challenges. Not to mention being prepared for natural disasters and uncontrollable crises — think storms, fires, floods, power outages and more. While threats coming from so many fronts might seem overwhelming, there are steps business owners can take to protect the people, places and assets that help make them successful. The most important step is being prepared, which today often means embracing the latest technology. “Security today is about proactive monitoring,” said Mark Kroska, an infrastructure and security architect who started
AGC Agency 20 years ago. “We’re no longer using the ‘break-fix’ model. Managed service providers design integrated systems that protect infrastructure and minimize downtime.” “You always need a backup plan for everything you do,” Summit Fire Protection Branch Manager Jeff Jacobson said. “The good news is, there are many specialized tools available to help protect you and minimize risks.” Today’s security systems help with protecting people and loss prevention, according to Bruce Merrell, founder of Shepherd Security. “We’re no longer in the era of systems going back to see what happened. Today they prevent problems and see what’s happening in real time,” which means, when necessary, both business owners and first responders can engage sooner.
According to Brian Kiffmeyer, the St. Cloud Fire Marshal, a lot of preparedness for businesses is not new and emerging technology. “How they interface with it is. Now the alarm systems do the early detection and make the calls, both to a business owner and first responders.”
Always Watching Today’s security systems that protect both physical and digital assets are built on numerous technologies developed within the past five to 10 years or earlier. Their common characteristics include high-resolution cameras, integrated monitoring systems, cloud-based data storage and — especially of late — increasing use of artificial intelligence or AI. Perhaps nothing better represents the importance of modern technology and the
emergence of AI in security systems than cameras. Older (now outdated) security cameras provide grainy, low-resolution video. They also have limited night vision and mobility capabilities and no remote access. Additionally, storage of security files must be on local hard drives. Modern systems are all about multiple cameras with high-resolution video, real-time monitoring, remote access, easy expansion and integration with complementary tools such as alarms and access controls. Perhaps best of all, storage of data can be cloud-based, saving resources for a business owner and eliminating the need for bulky hardware and on-site storage. For a small business without an IT department, cloud systems reduce maintenance headaches and keep costs predictable. Story continues on page 36.
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