Business needs vary based on size, location, and industry, but all businesses need a security system of some kind. Unfortunately, you can’t rely on the honor system alone when protecting your business.
Keeping your business safe is about far more than just catching thieves. It’s also about protecting your business from liability. For example, businesses have a legal obligation to limit risk for accidents, and any accident that occurs on the property will be your liability. However, some might try to exploit that and fake an accident. Your security footage can reveal the truth and stop such a financial hardship.
Technologies have advanced significantly over the last few years in the security sector, making it possible for businesses to gain the right security for their needs. That being said, choosing the right security system for your business is a little more complicated. A top-of-the-line surveillance system that works for a multi-million dollar company will probably protect your small business, but that doesn’t mean you need to spend so much.
For small business in a relatively safe area, a basic system that records and captures footage is usually all you need. If you live in a high crime neighborhood, you might want something that not only captures video but also triggers an alarm if someone breaks in.
The needs of your business will vary, so as you research some of the best technologies in the biz, consider these popular options.
1. TRENDnet
TRENDnet is an ideal solution for the small business that wants to customize their security plans. TRENDnet uses a selection of high-quality recorders and cameras that can be mixed and matched to meet your business needs. You can also get as much memory as you think you need with plans starting at one terabyte.
Traditional video cameras run on an analog network, meaning that the quality of the video will be lower and there will be only so many ways you can transmit the recording. TRENDnet is digital, offering cutting-edge technology with internet protocol, or IP cameras that are connected to your computer network. You can receive data digitally so that you can watch the footage from any authorized device connected to the network.
TRENDnet isn’t the cheapest option, but it boasts some of the latest technology in the market. It’s pretty amazing what a group of internet connected technologies can do for your business security.
2. Alibi
Analog cameras are more affordable, but IP cameras offer higher-quality video and more flexibility. If you’re looking for the best of both worlds, consider Alibi, which uses a combination of the two. This is best for businesses that already use analog security systems and are looking to upgrade without replacing the cameras that are already in good shape.
One of the most important things about technology advancement is that it recognizes the need to transition from an old system to a new one. Alibi lets you strategically position your IP cameras so that you get the best of its features without having to overhaul your entire system.
3. FCC Small Biz Cyber Planner 2.0
While considering the exterior security measures for your small business, you can’t forget about the internal concerns. Cyber attacks are growing increasingly more common, and many small businesses think they’re immune. However, 43 percent of cyber attacks target small businesses, and more than 60 percent of small businesses that suffer an attack will shut down within six months of the incident.
FCC Small Biz Cyber Planner 2.0 comes to us straight from the Federal Communication Commission (FCC) to help small businesses fight back when they’re under attack. It targets data security, privacy, network security, email, scams and fraud, mobile device vulnerabilities, employees, website security, and more to mitigate inside attacks.
4. Symantec for Small Businesses
Another all-inclusive internet security package is Symantec. The system got its start as a popular antivirus software installed on new computers, and the tool has advanced to cover cyberattacks as well.
Symantec offers a variety of customizable security packages, perfect for the small business budget. They offer their traditional antivirus and antispyware software as well as privacy protection, automation backups, quick disaster recovery, data loss prevention, firewall, email scanning, and more for total cyber security support.
5. SecurityMan
If you’re on a budget and need a great NDVR video surveillance system, SecurityMan is a great choice. It includes eight cameras with a setup that’s so simple you can do it yourself. It’s also easy to view the footage after it’s been recorded.
SecurityMan lacks some of the expensive software and configuration that other systems have. The picture won’t be as clear, and you won’t have flexible access to your footage. Still, it’ll do the job to keep your business safe with decent imaging technology.