The Background
Smart security is an area of Internet of Things (IoT) that involves the deployment of interconnected devices, equipped with sensors and dedicated software, to optimize security operations. From door sensors and electronic locks to wireless CCTV footage and cloud-based intercom systems, smart security solutions enable businesses – like offices, housing associations, hotels, and commercial properties – to remotely oversee security measures from anywhere in the world via smartphone application. Fueled by convenience and ease of access, the global smart doorbell market alone is expected to reach USD 13.7 Billion by 2033, more than quadruple what it is today.
Unique smart security solutions enhance traditional security functions by streamlining administration processes, saving both time and money. In the past, companies were forced to spend millions of dollars on administrative and security staff to physically monitor building entry. With cloud-based video intercom systems (i.e. smart doorbells) and similar solutions, authorized users can open the door for visitors directly via their smartphone, eliminating the needs for keys or codes, and freeing up administrative and security staff to tackle other duties.
Cloud-based intercom systems allow users to access live video feeds and two-way audio via cloud infrastructure, enabling them to see and speak with guests seeking entry. When a visitor arrives, they press a button located on the intercom device which automatically sends an alert to a designated recipient via smartphone app. Once an alert is received, the authorized recipient can visually and audibly interact with the visitor through live video feed and two-way audio, and grant building access from their mobile device, ensuring only authorized visitors gain entry. After installation, customers can easily manage who they want to share access with, and revoke that access as needed.
The Challenge
The challenge in orchestrating smart security is reliable connectivity. Cloud-based intercom systems, for example, are hosted through web servers rather than on-site computers, which facilitate remote management of the entire system via cloud infrastructure. Without reliable connectivity, customers would not be able to access the cloud, and in turn, would also lose the ability to access the live camera feed and audio needed to determine whether someone is authorized to enter their building. To make their solutions viable for users, smart security companies had to ensure their IoT software and devices remained connected to the cloud at all times, or else the benefits – like smartphone integration, increased security, cost savings, and remote management – would be null and void.
The Solution
KORE supports the application of IoT smart security solutions via its diverse suite of connectivity offerings, including its extensive relationships across multiple carriers capable of providing the required coverage. The initial solution entailed deploying cost-effective cellular connections as the primary, leveraging KORE’s robust carrier partnerships. In instances of connectivity issues, routers offer backup Wi-Fi connectivity to ensure uninterrupted communication.
The Result
Supporting smart security ensures IoT solutions enable customers to effectively leverage cloud-based technology to remotely oversee building entry, ensuring only authorized visitors gain entry, while providing enhanced security and cost savings in the process. Cloud-based video intercom systems boast user-friendliness, catering to individuals of all technical proficiencies. Live video feeds and two-way audio also allow users to readily identify potential threats and refuse access to suspicious visitors.
