Next-generation (Next-Gen) technologies are products, services, or infrastructures that represent a significant leap forward rather than a small, incremental update. In the physical security industry, NextGen products are those that enable disruptive change, breakthrough performance, and a fundamental change that renders previous products obsolete. We asked our Expert Panel Roundtable: What is the next generation of physical security solutions, and how will they change the industry?

Emphasising proactive rather than reactive security shifts the focus from dealing with crises and damage control to prevention. Advantages of a proactive approach include cost efficiency, better business continuity, and fewer crises that draw attention away from strategic improvements. Staying ahead of threats is a core mission of the security department, and technology has evolved to enable security professionals to deliver on that mission better than ever. We asked our Expert Panel Roundtable: How are security systems transitioning from reactive to proactive, and what is the benefit?

Multiple technology trends are transforming the physical access control market. There is a fundamental shift away from physical cards and keys toward digital identities — mobile credentials, digital wallets, biometrics, and cloud-native access platforms. These next generation access solutions are radically reshaping how buildings operate, protect staff, and perform functionally. At the same time, AI and analytics solutions are being layered onto these physical access control systems to support predictive threat detection and behavioural insights. Access data itself is becoming an asset for sustainability, space optimisation, and smart building initiatives. Risk, impact operations and experience The annual HID Global Security and Identity Trends Report highlights these and other issues The annual HID Global Security and Identity Trends Report highlights these and other issues. The survey cites improving user convenience as a priority for nearly half of organisations, while 41% are focused on simplifying administration, and 28% struggle with system integration. These are not theoretical challenges, they are day‑to‑day friction points that add cost, increase risk, impact operations and experience, and, of course, must be addressed. HID Global’s commercial focus HID Global’s commercial focus is to help organisations digitise their access control — with mobile identities, biometrics, and cloud platforms — and then to use the data to deliver more value. “We are turning access control from an operational cost into a software-driven asset that improves efficiency, supports Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) goals and even creates new revenue opportunities,” says Steven Commander, HID Global’s Head of Consultant Relations. The impact of digital transformation Digital transformation is the method of moving access control from hardware and physical credentials Digital transformation is in the process of moving access control from hardware and physical credentials to a software-driven, integrated experience. The transformation strengthens security while also improving user convenience — transforming the “pavement to the desk” journey. HID enables this shift through mobile credentials, biometrics, cloud-native platforms, and solutions that allow third-party applications to run on door hardware. “This helps customers turn access data into operational and commercial outcomes, while also improving the overall user experience,” says Commander.  Digital transformation in access control is not focused on chasing the latest trends. Rather, transformation is about turning software, data and integration into outcomes that matter to customers, says HID. “Security becomes stronger and more adaptive,” says Commander. “Operations become simpler and more cost‑effective. Experiences become seamless and consistent. Sustainability moves from ambition to action. And the financial case becomes clearer as efficiencies are banked and new value streams emerge.” The challenge of futureproofing with long lifecycles Given that physical security technologies will be in place for 15 to 20 years, it is important to plan for how systems can evolve over time. Considering how rapidly security threats, compliance standards, and user expectations change, 15 to 20 years is a long time. The decisions made at the beginning of a system’s lifecycle can either limit flexibility later (which will be costly) or enable long-term adaptability. Support for open standards such as Open Supervised Device Protocol (OSDP) is therefore important Choosing products and platforms that are open, interoperable, and designed for updates can enable future-proof projects. Support for open standards such as Open Supervised Device Protocol (OSDP) is therefore important.  In addition, systems built on open controller platforms — such as Mercury — enable organisations to switch software providers or expand functionality without replacing core door hardware. Architectural openness is key to system lifecycles and maximising the return on investment (ROI) from a chosen solution. Digital credentials and mobile access Flexibility and upgradeability should also be top of mind when it comes to endpoints like access control readers. While RFID cards are still commonplace, there is a clear trend toward digital credentials and mobile access. Readers that support both allow organisations to transition at their own pace, without committing to a full system overhaul. A long system lifecycle does not mean technology should remain static. Security, particularly cybersecurity, demands more frequent updates. Technologies that support firmware upgrades in the field extend the value of a deployment while helping organisations keep pace with emerging threats. In that sense, lifecycle thinking is not just about longevity — it’s about maintaining resilience and readiness over time. Applying biometrics and mobile identities Biometrics is becoming mainstream as a credential alternative, strengthening security without adding friction Biometrics is becoming mainstream as a credential alternative, strengthening security without adding friction. Many organisations are now deploying biometrics to support fast, seamless access journeys, with adoption already around 39% in access control according to HID’s recent research.  In addition, 80% of organisations surveyed expect to deploy mobile identities within the next five years. Full technology integration enables tap‑to‑access without opening an app; the user journey becomes faster, safer, and more convenient. “It is where the industry is headed and we are at the vanguard of this,” says Commander.    Ongoing challenge of cybersecurity At HID Global, cybersecurity is embedded into everything, from corporate processes and development practices to the solutions they bring to market. “Our approach ensures that customers can strengthen their overall security posture, not only by deploying secure products but by benefitting from HID’s commitment to the highest industry standards,” says Commander. HID holds multiple globally recognised certifications, including ISO 27001, ISO 14298, SOC Type 2 and CSA STAR, which demonstrate their robust information security and cloud security practices. In addition, HID’s SEOS® secure chipset is independently SEAL-certified, providing one of the most advanced levels of protection available on the market today. “Ultimately, this means organisations are not just purchasing isolated secure products; they are implementing solutions developed and delivered within a comprehensive, cybersecure framework,” says Commander. “When deployed according to best practices, HID solutions enable customers to achieve the highest levels of resilience against evolving physical and cyber threats.” Developing green and sustainable solutions A huge amount of waste is generated from the manufacture of plastic RFID access cards Digital credentials align with the sustainable solutions that everyone wants. A huge amount of waste is generated from the manufacture of plastic RFID access cards. Over 550 million access cards are sold annually. This creates 2,700 tons of plastic waste and 11,400 tons of carbon, based on a PVC card weighing 5 grams.  Therefore, digital credentials self-evidently reduce the reliance on plastic cards (helping reduce carbon emissions by up to 75% according to HID’s research), while leveraging access control system data supports energy optimisation by shutting down or reducing systems in unused spaces. Energy use and CO₂ emissions can be cut dramatically, showing how access systems can contribute to sustainability goals and green building certification. What is the latest in smart buildings? Smart buildings increasingly rely on mobile access control as the backbone for digital services. Real-time access data enables new services such as automated room bookings, HVAC control, lift/elevator calling, e-bike hiring, and so on. Smart buildings increasingly rely on mobile access control as the backbone for digital services The financial upside is clear; smart, digitally transformed buildings can deliver around 8% higher yields per square foot versus traditional office space. Operational savings accrue from reduced administration, the removal of card production and shipping, and lighter IT support. This creates a value cycle — better experiences drive adoption, adoption fuels monetisation, and monetisation funds further improvements. Achieving technology impact in the real world One standout project is One Bangkok – a $3.9 billion mixed used development in Thailand – which demonstrates the scale of what can be achieved when access control data is used for optimisation, particularly when it comes to monitoring facilities usage and occupier behaviours. By switching lights off or lowering the temperature in unused rooms, for example, the One Bangkok building demonstrates this potential with a 22% reduction in energy consumption, saving 17,000 MWh and 9,000 tons of CO₂ annually.  Sustainability is a key factor in contributing to how properties are valued. And sustainability extends far beyond digital credentials having a lower environmental impact than plastic cards.  Buildings with recognised sustainability certifications often command rental premiums of around 6%, and three‑quarters of security decision‑makers now consider environmental impact in their procurement assessments.

ISC West 2025 in Las Vegas showcased the latest advancements in security technology, offering security professionals a glimpse into the future of the industry. This year's expo highlighted the growing influence of artificial intelligence (AI), cloud computing, and enhanced integration. The pioneering comprehensive and converged security event attracted nearly 29,000 industry professionals to the Venetian Convention Centre.  Integration into unified platforms Several companies emphasised the importance of cloud-based solutions and the integration of diverse security components into unified platforms. For example, Brivo's Security Suite provides “everything in one platform” – not just access control. Customers only pay for what they use because the system is flexible and scalable from a single door to enterprise level applications. Brivo’s suite includes video, but the system can also tie in with third-party “partners.” Genetec's Security Centre allows for more frequent updates through the cloud. Milestone is undergoing a two-year transition to bring its Xprotect system into the future by incorporating Arcules and Briefcam into a video-as-a service product. Suprema introduced BioStar X, which integrates access control and video analytics into a single platform. AI and mobile credentials  Axis Communications’ Cloud Connect product announced three new partnerships at ISC West 2025 Axis Communications’ Cloud Connect product announced three new partnerships at ISC West – Eagle Eye Networks, SecuriThings, and Wesco. They join the three partners announced during the first year of Axis Cloud Connect – Genetec, Kone (elevators) and Milestone. AI and mobile credentials were still hot topics at ISC West 2025, but the conversation has evolved beyond amazement at the technologies’ capabilities and now centres on more practical aspects. From the theoretical to the practical “AI and mobility are still the ‘flavors de jour,’ but messages are evolving to manifest AI for better outcomes,” says Heather Torrey, General Manager, Commercial Security, Americas, for Honeywell Building Automation. The company has reframed its security portfolio to be very building- and business-focused, continuing to grow and evolve after the recent acquisition of LenelS2. “From the theoretical to the practical, we want customers to be part of the conversation so we can deliver AI that is meaningful to them, focusing on what’s most important,” says Torrey. Under Honeywell’s new ownership structure, “each part of the business can be more focused on customers’ needs,” she says. Honeywell continues its journey around mobile access and credentialing and migrating to cloud solutions. Innovations in Access Control Gallagher’s new Quickswitch access control board simplifies the migration from legacy systems Access control remains a critical component of security systems, and ISC West 2025 showcased several innovations in this area. Acre is releasing “Gallery,” its version of the App Store for access control. DormaKaba is launching the Keyscan KC Series door controller with TCP/IP connectivity and enhanced features. Gallagher’s new Quickswitch access control board simplifies the migration from legacy systems. Johnson Controls highlighted its C-Cure command centre and C-Cure IQ web client, offering a unified approach to access control and video. Hardware integrations for security panels For service provider Alarm.com, hardware products prepare a path to greater customer experiences, says Abe Kinney, Alarm.com’s Director, Product Management, who oversees hardware integrations for security panels, sensors, video, etc., and drives new product development. “We are looking to bridge the physical world to digital world,” he says. “We want to bring an advantage to our dealers that they can bring to customers.” Because Alarm.com’s customers pay a monthly fee, the products must be durable and economical, says Kinney. “It should work with no need for truck rolls.” The importance of longevity and flexibility Products are evaluated based on features, price, and ease of installation Products are evaluated based on features, price, and ease of installation. In particular, longevity is important for the Alarm.com’s pro channel. There is also a growing emphasis on deterrence industrywide. Says Kinney: “We recognise that detection is part of it, but we need to prevent problems from happening in the first place. And the industry is re-evaluating.” When it comes to cloud intelligence, Eagle Eye Networks puts the emphasis on flexibility. They offer AI that can perform anywhere on the system infrastructure, on the camera, on their on-site bridge device, or in the cloud. They support their own AI and also any AI product from a third party. “We focus on what customers want from the data AI detects,” says Hans Kahler, Eagle Eye Networks’ Chief Operating Officer. Integration with other systems A timely alert from gun detection could save a life, but AI can also generate information that might be used and analysed later, such as point-of-sale information, dwell time, foot traffic, etc. “What people want is the ability to work with the data for business intelligence,” says Kahler. Integration with other systems provides new opportunities for customers: For example, a licence plate reader at a restaurant drive-thru could trigger customisation of the menu board digital signage based on the customer’s previous buying pattern. Relentless Innovation Assa Abloy handles more than 40 million SKUs for all its various brands, faked in 28 factories in the US Assa Abloy handles more than 40 million stock keeping units (SKUs) for all its various brands manufactured in 28 factories in the United States. Merely complying with regulations such as the “Buy American Act” is a monumental effort considering the massive product line, attendees heard at Assa Abloy’s Annual ISC West Breakfast focusing on compliance challenges in the security market. Meanwhile, back at the trade show booth, Assa Abloy focused on “relentless innovation” in every corner of its product line. Assa Abloy’s message: Innovation in security does not have to be about AI or automation. In fact, inventive approaches to products come in all shapes and sizes and at every level of the product portfolio, and innovation is happening faster than ever. For example, the Safebolt product from Securitech, a brand recently acquired by Assa Abloy, can quickly lock down existing doors with the press of a red button on a cylindrical or mortise lock. Temporary Systems to Secure Events Securing events is the focus of Allied Universal's Unified Command Solutions, which specialises in setting up temporary security systems for conventions, trade shows, festivals, construction sites, parades, and other events. They can add technology to situations where previously mostly security officers were used, providing safety/security and enabling more efficient event operation.  “We can put cameras anywhere, whether they need power or not, use cell service or WiFi, a localised network or the internet, or whatever,” says Andrew LaMadrid, VP, Sales for Allied Universal's Unified Command Solutions. Event operation and management IDIS came to ISC West looking to leverage new products that they did not promote in the past The focus is on easy implementation, flexibility, and fast setup and removal. “We look for a solution to solve each customer’s pain points,” says LaMadrid. They specialise in setting up and deploying surveillance cameras for safety/security and for event operation and management. Mobile surveillance is a relatively new “piece of our puzzle” when it comes to protecting high-profile events. “People are excited about what we can offer that’s new,” says LaMadrid. Unified Command Solutions has been around for about 12 years and was acquired by Allied Universal last summer. IDIS came to ISC West looking to leverage new products that they did not promote in the past, and visitors were very interested in those solutions, says Scott Switzer, IDIS CEO. “The progression of our product line has been tremendous,” he says. Last year, the IDIS booth offered only basic analytics, but this year they had 30 different advanced analytics including gun and aggression detection using the advanced solution “IDIS Vaidio AI.”  What Makes You Different? The most common question IDIS hears at their trade show booth is: “What makes you different?” The answer: They offer an end-to-end solution, including cameras; they manage, control, design from end-to-end; and there is no need for multiple integrations. The time needed to install an IDIS system is significantly less because of the simplicity. “We have customers we have supported and grown together for over 20 years,” says Switzer. The company previously deployed IDIS cameras under the Costar brand before the Korean IDIS brand was introduced into the U.S. (IDIS purchased Costar and changed the name to IDIS America.) “This has been a tremendous show for us; we are looking to build our momentum and let more people know about IDIS,” says Switzer. Managing real AI at the edge The depth of their metadata enables new applications, whether for security or business operations Based in Prague, Czech Republic, and with U.S. offices in Pennsylvania, FF Group provides licence plate recognition for harsh environments. Using Axis cameras, they offer “managed real AI at the edge,” selling through a nationwide distributed network, says Alex Osypov, CEO and Founder of FF Group. Markets include parking lots, cities/municipalities, police, government, water systems, etc. The depth of their metadata enables new applications, whether for security or business operations. They are looking to combine and correlate data including LIDAR, RADAR, etc. to exploit the advantages of “data fusion.” Osypov says: “The market is growing because we are involving other adjacent markets.” Unified platforms and advanced tools Several companies are focusing on enhancing security operations centres (SOCs) by providing unified platforms and advanced tools. Axon’s Fusus system “layers” onto existing infrastructure, tying together various sensors into a single interface for real-time monitoring and information sharing. Increasingly, enterprises have invested in a lot of technologies – ac, video, asset trackers – but none of it talks together. Fusus ties all the systems together so that operators no longer have to look at 10 different screens. Rather, there is a “single pane of glass” that shows everything and facilitates sharing of information with law enforcement.  Motorola also showcased its Security Operations Centre, which integrates hardware, software, smart sensors, communication radios, and broadband devices to streamline incident management.

Integrated access control and security manufacturer TDSi by Hirsch announces the release of GARDiS Pro v3.2, the latest evolution of its powerful access control software platform. The new version introduces a series of enhancements designed to strengthen system security, improve wireless locking integration, and simplify installation and commissioning for partners and end users. GARDiS Pro v3.2 reflects TDSi by Hirsch’s ongoing commitment to delivering a future-ready access control ecosystem that evolves in line with customer needs and emerging technologies. The latest version introduces a comprehensive set of new features and enhancements designed to strengthen security, improve connectivity and further enhance overall system performance. Providing greater convenience One of the most notable additions is full integration with Uhlmann & Zacher (U&Z) wireless locking. This new capability enables seamless management of compatible wireless locks directly within the GARDiS interface, offering improved configuration, monitoring, and control. This supports a smoother wireless locking experience, providing greater convenience while maintaining centralised system oversight. Security has also been further reinforced through the introduction of AES encryption between GARDiS Pro and GARDiS controllers. This enhancement ensures that all communication across the network is protected against unauthorised access or interception, offering greater assurance for organisations operating in sensitive or regulated environments. Fast and reliable communication channel GARDiS Pro v3.2 also introduces Endpoint Alerts, enabling real time notifications to be sent directly to a designated device such as a mobile phone. This improves responsiveness to critical events and ensures that important system activity is never missed. Alerts are configured through the GARDiS App and distributed via Google Firebase, providing a fast and reliable communication channel. To support improved on site awareness, the software now includes an audible alarm option, allowing users to trigger a sound alert when required. This provides an immediate indication of alarm events and supports faster incident response. Reducing configuration time Alongside these feature upgrades, TDSi has introduced a series of licensing and commissioning enhancements that streamline setup, reduce configuration time, and improve overall usability. Together, these refinements make deployment faster and more efficient for installers and administrators, ensuring projects move forward with greater confidence. Tina Pemberton, Director SMB Software, commented on the significance of the new release: “GARDiS Pro v3.2 represents another important step forward in our mission to deliver secure, flexible, and intuitive access control solutions. Our customers want systems that are not only robust and compliant, but also easy to deploy and manage. This update strengthens every part of the platform - from encrypted communications to wireless locking integration - while ensuring installers can work more efficiently and end users benefit from a smoother, more responsive experience.” GARDiS Pro v3.2 is available now via the TDSi Product Registration portal. Partners and customers are encouraged to upgrade to take advantage of the latest features and performance improvements.

Veeam® Software, the Data and AI Trust Company, announced Agent Commander, the first unified solution to help organizations safely detect AI risk, protect AI systems, and undo AI mistakes, empowering them to proactively address AI-driven risks and securely scale AI agents everywhere. Introducing Agent Commander The first integration from Veeam’s successful acquisition of Securiti AI, Agent Commander combines the market-leading capabilities of both to give organizations visibility, control, and protection over their entire data and AI estate, with the ability to undo AI mistakes with precision and ease. Agent Commander will be available in a future release of the Securiti Data Command Center, bringing together the industry’s leading Data Resilience and Data Security capabilities.  Representing future “AI happens at machine speed, which means organizations must understand what data is being used, by what agent, and how in real-time. If an error occurs, organizations not only need to understand what data was impacted, but they also need the ability to undo any damage rapidly,” said Anand Eswaran, CEO of Veeam. “With Agent Commander, organizations know what data is powering AI, and it gives them the power to detect, protect, and, when necessary, undo AI actions with speed and precision. It represents the future of what’s expected from data security and data resilience, and it’s only possible with Veeam’s unified platform.” Data and AI risk The most critical gap in AI infrastructure today is trust. As AI agents scale, data risk and AI risk have become the same problem. An agent is only as trustworthy as the data it can see, access, and act on. Yet enterprise controls remain fragmented with separate systems for protection, security, governance, and recovery, and none built to provide unified visibility, granular control, or precision response at the speed and scale AI now demands.  Sensitive data is being fed into models and acted upon in ways no one approved nor is tracking. As AI moves at machine speed an AI agent can access and act on sensitive data in seconds. Traditional workflows that take hours to detect and days to remediate leave too much exposure at that velocity. Closing this gap requires a new layer of AI infrastructure: a unified control plane that delivers contextual visibility, policy-level enforcement, and surgical recovery, converging data resilience, data security, and AI risk management into one operational system. About Agent Commander Agent Commander brings Veeam’s trusted data resilience together with Securiti AI’s Data Command Center. This unified platform gives organizations total visibility into their AI environment, detects hidden risks and Shadow AI, and provides comprehensive controls to protect data as it moves through AI systems. Uniquely, Agent Commander can instantly undo AI agent mistakes with precise rollbacks. With Agent Commander, teams can detect and fix threats faster and with less effort, enabling safe and rapid AI adoption. It provides the visibility and control needed to confidently scale AI, turning security into a true business accelerator. What makes Agent Commander unique? At the core of Agent Commander is Veeam's Data Command Graph™ — a real-time relational intelligence engine that maps live connections between data, identities, AI models, and autonomous agents across production and backup environments. Veeam sees what others can't. The toxic combinations where compromised identities, exposed data, and autonomous agents intersect — and how those risks compound, cascade, and evolve in real time across the entire data and AI estate. That's why no standalone AI security or backup solution can do what Agent Commander does. Combined with Veeam's enterprise-grade data resilience platform, it delivers three capabilities the industry has never seen together. Detect AI Risk with Context: Identify shadow AI, sensitive data exposure, and risky agent behavior, with full visibility into downstream impact across systems and environments. Protect AI Pipelines Autonomously: Enforce granular, real-time controls across data, identities, and AI agents, independent of model providers, cloud platforms, and hybrid needs. Undo AI Mistakes with Precision: Surgically reverse unwanted AI actions using precise, context-aware recovery, restoring trusted data without reverting entire systems. By converging relational AI intelligence with proven resilience infrastructure, Agent Commander establishes a new standard for trusted, recoverable AI at scale. Expertise insight “As AI becomes operational infrastructure, enterprises can no longer treat data protection, data and AI security, privacy, and governance as separate disciplines,” said Rehan Jalil, President of Products & Technology at Veeam. “Controlling AI risk is effectively impossible in siloed environments or without deep contextual intelligence across data, permissions, and autonomous agents. Agent Commander unifies control across production and backup to detect toxic combinations, enforce granular policy, and precisely reverse AI-driven actions. This is the foundation required to operate AI safely at enterprise scale.” "Acquisitions often raise the question of how combined strengths can create new customer value,” said Todd Thiemann, Principal Analyst, AIM & Data Security at Omdia. “Veeam’s announcement provides a clear roadmap for integrating capabilities and delivering enhanced solutions to organizations securing their data and AI estates. The focus on Agent Commander demonstrates Veeam’s commitment to provide both operational efficiency and comprehensive security for AI agents." RSAC 2026 conference To see Agent Commander in action, visit Veeam at Booth S‑427 in the South Hall during RSAC 2026 Conference, March 23-26 in San Francisco, CA.

Yubico, a modern cybersecurity company and creator of the most secure passkeys, announced the launch of YubiNation Partners, a new global channel programme designed to unite a community of security experts. In the face of growing AI-driven cyber threats, the programme enables partners to become trusted advisors and cultivate a safer digital world for their customers, making identities private and secure. YubiKeys As the average cost of a corporate security breach climbs to $4.4 million, with phishing remaining a primary attack vector, the industry can no longer rely on passwords alone. In fact, a 2026 Total Economic Impact study from Forrester Consulting commissioned by Yubico, found that by replacing traditional Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) and One-Time Passwords (OTP) with YubiKeys, customers achieved a 265 percent return on investment (ROI).  This effectively eliminated phishing and credential-theft risks, reducing an organisation’s risk exposure to breach costs from addressable attacks by 99.99 percent. With the ever-changing landscape, YubiNation Partners is more important than ever, transforming the traditional reseller model into a strategic engine for growth, empowering partners to deliver the gold standard in phishing-resistant multi-factor authentication (MFA) and help customers go passwordless at speed and scale. Building a community of security experts “With YubiNation Partners, Yubico is embracing a Partner-first strategy, moving beyond traditional resale to build a dedicated community of security experts who are shaping the future of digital identity,” said Bettina Vahl, vice president of global channels at Yubico. “This programme is built to turn our partners into true trusted advisors, giving them the innovation, speed and scale they need to help customers go passwordless and stay secure everywhere.” Welcome to YubiNation Partners: Built to accelerate partner success at scale The new programme features four distinct partnership tiers specifically designed to recognise technical expertise, investment and collaboration. Each tier unlocks deeper enablement and benefits: Bronze (building the foundation): Focuses on rapid enablement through the Yubico Academy and authorised distributors to help teams deliver value immediately Silver (expanding impact): Unlocks lead sharing and co-sell support for opportunities involving 200+ users Gold (accelerating at scale): Receives priority access to market development funds (MDF), a dedicated go-to-market team and a not-for-resale (NFR) allocation of up to 25 keys per quarter to support technical readiness Platinum (leading the way): Strongest deal incentives, services leads, direct access to MDF, invitations to exclusive strategic events and business planning sessions and an NFR allocation of up to 50 keys per quarter Yubico Academy: The destination spot for effective channel enablement Over the past year, Yubico has significantly expanded the Yubico Academy to support roles across our partner ecosystem: 100-series (Essentials), 200-series (Sales) and 300-series (Technical Sales), including completing a proof of concept with a fourth level of certification, the 400-series focused on Professional Services. After incorporating feedback from partners worldwide, Yubico is also making the 400-series available to Platinum and Gold tier partners. This programme reinforces the mission to treat partners as an extension of Yubico’s team and strengthens the partner networks’ ability to streamline our customers’ path to phishing-resistance. It also allows partners to leverage their expertise in a wider array of solutions to deliver additional Professional Services that ultimately enable customer success. "The feedback from both my colleagues and I regarding the new Professional Services certifications has been overwhelmingly positive, particularly concerning the specialised vendor modules,” said Felix Brand, CISSP and cybersecurity architect at Germany-based Yubico partner, SVA. “This structured approach provided a highly targeted experience that directly aligns with the unique needs and strengths of each individual consulting partner." Innovating for the future of identity YubiNation Partners is built to help trusted advisors capture demand in a fast-moving market. Currently, over 30 percent of the Fortune 500 and 18 of the top 20 AI companies rely on YubiKeys to secure their workforces. By joining YubiNation, channel partners can leverage this brand authority to shorten sales cycles, drive recurring revenue and shape the future of securing digital identity. The programme creates a unified ecosystem where partners can advise, build and resell, supported by tailored enablement and campaign kits that drive measurable impact. “We see Yubico’s updated channel programme as a strong step forward in supporting strategic partners like Zones. The investments in enablement, tiering, and services alignment position us to drive greater impact together in the identity security market,” said Jake Pederson, director, software, cloud and security alliances at Zones. “By elevating partner certifications and Professional Services integration, the programme empowers Zones to differentiate through technical expertise and end-to-end delivery excellence at global scale.” Availability Existing partners will be automatically placed into one of the four programme tiers based on current criteria, such as revenue growth and Yubico Academy certifications completed. New partners looking to advance their security mission and join the YubiNation Partners community can submit a Partner Application starting today on the Yubico website or through their local Yubico distributor.

Arctic Wolf®, a pioneer in security operations, announces it has acquired Sevco Security, an innovator in exposure assessment platforms. Sevco’s cloud-native technology will operate on the Arctic Wolf Aurora Platform, unifying asset intelligence, vulnerability context, and security control coverage to help organisations continuously identify and prioritise exposures across hybrid environments. In the 2025 Gartner® Magic Quadrant™ for Exposure Assessment Platforms, Sevco Security was named a Visionary. Proactive security posture As organisations look to move from reactive defence to a more proactive security posture, exposure management has become a critical capability. Security teams cannot get ahead of threats without a clear, continuously updated understanding of what assets exist, how they are exposed, and which weaknesses pose the most significant risk to their resilience. Sevco was built to address this challenge by providing an authoritative system-of-record for assets and exposures, helping teams move from static vulnerability lists to prioritised, outcome-driven action. “You cannot take a proactive approach to security without managing exposure and risk,” said Dan Schiappa, president of technology and services, Arctic Wolf. “In our view Sevco’s recognition as a Visionary by Gartner validates the approach they have taken to asset intelligence and exposure assessment. By adding Sevco to Arctic Wolf’s portfolio of solutions, we intend to give customers and MSPs the clarity and context they need to act earlier, prioritise effectively, and verify that risk is being reduced.” Expanding attack surfaces The shift toward proactive security is driving increased demand for exposure management as organisations contend with expanding attack surfaces and rising operational risk. In the 2025 Gartner Magic Quadrant™ for Exposure Assessment Platforms, Gartner predicts, “By 2027, organisations that integrate exposure assessment data into IT and business workflows will experience 30 percent less unplanned downtime from exploited vulnerabilities than those relying on isolated vulnerability management tools.” Creating powerful complement The addition of Sevco Security to the Aurora Platform creates a powerful complement to Arctic Wolf Managed Risk, giving customers a unified, real-time perspective on assets and exposures across their attack surfaces. Together, these capabilities provide end to end visibility, smarter prioritisation informed by exposure context, and streamlined remediation workflows that help organisations advance toward truly proactive security—all without adding operational complexity. “Sevco was built to give security teams an authoritative, real-time view of every asset and exposure,” said J.J. Guy, chief executive officer and co-founder, Sevco Security. “Joining Arctic Wolf accelerates our mission and brings our platform’s strengths to organisations that need unified visibility, smarter prioritisation, and verifiable remediation as part of their security operations.”

ZeroEyes, the creators of the first AI-based gun detection video analytics platform to earn the full US Department of Homeland Security SAFETY Act Designation, announces that its AI gun detection and intelligent situational awareness platform is being deployed by Dillon School District Four to protect students, faculty, and visitors against gun-related violence. Located in Dillon County, South Carolina, the school district serves approximately 3,800 students and employs more than 500 staff across six schools, including two high schools, one middle school, and multiple elementary schools serving Pre-K through fifth grade. One of two districts in the county, it places a strong emphasis on proactive safety and emergency preparedness. Multi-layered security approach Dillon School District Four purchased ZeroEyes with funds granted through Proviso 1.78 of the FY 2024-2025 Appropriations Act by the South Carolina Department of Education (SCDE) to make upgrades aligned with school safety priorities. Its ZeroEyes deployment will complement the district’s multilayered security approach, which includes metal detectors, shatterproof window film, handheld wands, two-way radios, and more. “Student and staff safety is not optional; it’s foundational,” said Douglas Ray Rogers, superintendent of Dillon School District Four. “We are committed to doing all we can, every day, to create a secure environment where learning and teaching can happen without fear, and we are excited to add ZeroEyes’ proactive gun-detection technology to this strategy.” Intelligent situational awareness ZeroEyes' AI gun detection and intelligent situational awareness software layers onto existing digital security cameras. If a gun is identified, images are instantly shared with the ZeroEyes Operations Center (ZOC), the industry's only U.S.-based, fully in-house operation centre, which is staffed 24/7/365 by specially trained U.S. military and law enforcement veterans. If these experts determine the threat is valid, they dispatch alerts and actionable intelligence — including visual description, gun type, and last known location — to law enforcement and school security teams as quickly as 3 to 5 seconds from detection. “By integrating advanced security technologies, Dillon School District Four is taking proactive steps to protect its students and staff with confidence,” said Mike Lahiff, CEO and co-founder of ZeroEyes. “We are honoured to be chosen to deploy our solutions throughout the district.”

ISS (Intelligent Security Systems), a global provider of video intelligence and data awareness solutions, announces the deployment of its SecurOS® Soffit pedestrian safety system in Kodiak, Alaska. This pilot project, launched by the Alaska Department of Transportation & Public Facilities (DOT&PF) on Rezanof Drive near Cope Street, marks the first installation of the Soffit in the state. The deployment addresses a critical safety challenge unique to the region: long periods of darkness in the fall. Alaska sees a notable increase in pedestrian crashes during September and October, when daylight hours decrease rapidly but the contrast of snow—which can make pedestrians more visible to drivers—is not yet present. To mitigate this risk, the state selected the SecurOS® Soffit for its ability to provide intelligent, dynamic illumination. Unnecessary light pollution Unlike standard streetlights that illuminate an entire area continuously, the Soffit utilises advanced video analytics to detect pedestrians as they approach a crosswalk. The system then directs a dynamic LED lighting array to "escort" the pedestrian across the street, illuminating only the person and their immediate path. This targeted approach increases driver awareness while minimizing unnecessary light pollution, making it an ideal solution for increasing visibility during Alaska's dark autumn months. "We are proud to partner with the Alaska Department of Transportation & Public Facilities on this critical initiative," said Aluisio Figueiredo, CEO of ISS. "This project underscores our mutual commitment to protecting pedestrians in challenging environments. By bringing intelligent visibility to Kodiak's roads, we hope to demonstrate how technology can save lives where traditional infrastructure may fall short." This installation follows the recent successful deployment of the SecurOS® Soffit in Dublin, Ohio, last month, further expanding the adoption of this AI-driven safety technology across the U.S.

A bespoke Hochiki Europe fire detection solution has been installed at Willis Aviation Services Limited’s extensive maintenance base at Teesside International Airport, setting a new benchmark for safety across specialist aviation environments. Spanning 45,000 m² of hangars, workshops and office space, Hangars 7 and 8 house multifunctional facilities where engineers work with high-value aircraft and potentially flammable materials, a combination that demands uncompromising fire protection. To meet these demands, Willis Aviation partnered with local life-safety specialist Render Alarms to design and install a fully tailored system built around Hochiki’s advanced intelligent detection technology. Hochiki’s ESP intelligent fire detection system At the heart of the installation is Hochiki’s ESP intelligent fire detection system, offering open-protocol flexibility and future-proof performance aligned with the forthcoming BS 5839-1 2025 standard. Across office environments, adjustable smoke and heat detectors provide highly reliable detection while helping to reduce unwanted alarms, an essential factor in maintaining operational continuity. In busy workshop areas, wall-mounted sounder beacons deliver clear visual alerts in high-noise conditions, ensuring warnings are both seen and heard. For the expansive and structurally complex hangar voids, Hochiki’s FIRElink aspirating detection system was specified, using laser-based technology to monitor large areas efficiently with enhanced sensitivity and reduced maintenance requirements. Installation Render Alarms’ installation team also utilised specialist design software to optimise the aspirating pipe network around the hangar’s structural framework, ensuring complete coverage and compliance. Luke Render, from Render Alarms, and the lead engineer on the project commented “Hochiki's bases are a gamechanger, one base fit all devices. The sensors effortlessly twist-fit onto the bases, which significantly reduced the install and commission time, without compromising quality.” Intelligent fire safety solution The result is a robust, intelligent fire safety solution that protects people, aircraft and infrastructure, while minimising disruption and supporting long-term operational resilience. As safety standards continue to evolve across aviation and industrial sectors, this project demonstrates how carefully specified, expertly installed detection technology can deliver confidence today and adaptability for tomorrow.

Interface Systems, a managed service provider delivering remote video monitoring, commercial security systems, business intelligence, and network services for multi-location enterprises, announces that the fast-food hamburger chain, White Castle, has successfully piloted Interface's AI-powered exterior security solution - Virtual Perimeter Guard™ at a high-risk St. Louis location. The pilot delivered measurable reductions in loitering, late-night incidents, and security escalations while improving safety for employees and customers. The pilot focused on a location experiencing after-hours security challenges, including loitering, open-air drug use, customer pestering in drive-thru lanes, and repeated vandalism that cost thousands of dollars per incident. Increased customer comfort Within the first 30 days of deployment, 91% of perimeter security events were resolved automatically through AI detection and live voice deterrence. The site saw a significant reduction in loitering, a reduced need for morning trash clearing, and late-night escalation calls dropped from about once a week to none. White Castle also reported improved employee morale, a stronger sense of safety, and increased customer comfort while waiting in late-night drive-thru lines. “Sometimes we don’t even realise something bad may be happening, and the Interface Security experts are already intervening and telling potential criminals to leave,” said Cheryl Soest, District Supervisor at White Castle. “That allows our team to focus on serving customers instead of worrying about what’s happening outside.” Pre-recorded warning systems Unlike traditional exterior cameras or prerecorded warning systems that are often ignored, Virtual Perimeter Guard combines AI-powered detection, escalating voice downs with powerful strobe lighting, and live security professionals who intervene in real time. The White Castle Virtual Perimeter Guard system is armed nightly when exterior visibility is limited. “People don’t take prerecorded messages seriously,” Soest added. “When the lights come on, and a live person speaks, they move. They don’t wait around.” Reducing cost exposure “What this deployment of Virtual Perimeter Guard demonstrates is the shift from reactive security to proactive prevention,” said Steve Womer, Senior Vice President of Product at Interface Systems. “By combining AI detection with live human intervention, Virtual Perimeter Guard stops issues before they escalate into property damage, safety incidents, or operational disruption. White Castle’s results show how perimeter intelligence can directly improve safety, reduce cost exposure, and give operators peace of mind without adding burden to store teams.” Actively monitoring footage Installation and onboarding were completed without disrupting restaurant operations. Interface Systems managed system tuning, testing, and ongoing monitoring, while White Castle leadership received weekly insight reports, eliminating the need for on-site staff to actively monitor footage. “We didn’t have to worry about anything,” Soest said. “They handled installation, testing, and walked us through everything step by step. The whole process was very easy.” Beyond loss prevention Beyond loss prevention, White Castle noted improvements in employee confidence and customer experience, particularly during late-night operations, where perceptions of safety directly affect retention and traffic. “If customers feel safe coming onto your lot, and team members feel safe working there, it improves your business,” Soest said. Following these positive early results, White Castle is evaluating full-perimeter coverage at the pilot location and potential expansion to additional restaurants with similar challenges.