Using digitalisation to safeguard ports

That is the belief of Jon Hill, account executive, public space and transport at security software company, Genetec.

“The link between seaport security and operations is clear,” said Hill. “Ports that rely on siloed, analogue systems for their security needs often struggle to keep up and continuing to use separate systems can make the backlog worse,” he added.

Unified solution

A unified solution enables the flow and management of data across all security activities, says Hill. He highlights other benefits a unified solution can bring such as an access control management module which allows movement of people and equipment around the port to be easily tracked; the ability to manage from a single source cameras, doors and other security equipment; and the ease at which a unified solution can be protected from cyber threats such as loss of service or potential data breaches.

Open-source platform

An open-source platform allows for flexibility, making it easy to add licences and modules as needed without worrying about compatibility issues, says Hill.

It also has the ability to integrate third-party data, such as traffic and weather reports as well as giving the widest variety of options for adding additional hardware such as sensors and security cameras.

“In a world of increasing complexity, security threats, resource constraints and labour shortages, digital transformation is the solution to help seaports meeting the challenges we face today,” said Hill.

“With a unified, open platform security solution, ports can secure infrastructure, optimise operations and reduce operational costs and the flexibility of an open-architecture solution ensures you will be able to leverage the best of breed technologies as the industry evolves,” he concluded.