Trends shaping physical security in 2026

Physical security decisions used to be simpler. Now there are more options on the table, as sensors collect more data and security threats evolve. This webinar digs into key findings from the Genetec 2026 State of Physical Security report, so you can make smarter choices with confidence.

Every organization deploys physical security differently. Some workloads belong on-prem, while others are for the cloud. That’s why hybrid deployments came out on top in this year’s report, with 72% of security consultants planning to recommend them to their clients. A hybrid approach lets you decide what goes where, at your own pace.

Modernizing isn’t about ripping out hardware and wires. A phased approach lets you migrate workloads one at a time, without disrupting your day-to-day work. With edge devices, you can even bring legacy equipment into the cloud to get the most value from your existing systems. The key is choosing an open platform from a trusted manufacturer, so you can avoid vendor lock-in.

Survey data indicates that excitement around AI is increasing. That said, everyone still wants to see practical, real-world results. It’s always good to ask yourself: What am I hoping to achieve from AI? Is it moving me closer to that goal? Right now, AI shines in speeding up video searches and filtering out alarm noise. But it’s not a substitute for human judgment. You want to improve your team’s decision-making, not take the reins away from them.

Trust is the biggest obstacle to AI adoption in physical security. According to the report, only 20% of respondents had no concerns about using AI. If you’re worried about data privacy, start by asking your vendor how they train their models. Are they using your system’s data to improve their AI? In physical security, the answer should be no. Guardrails matter too. A responsible vendor builds safeguards into the product from the start. That way, the AI stays accurate, secure, and accountable.

Access control is so much more than opening doors. The right approach ties into your entire business, ensuring the right people have access to the right spaces, at the right time. When you connect it to HR, provisioning becomes a breeze. New hires get access automatically, and when someone leaves, it’s just as easy to revoke it. Plus, the data you collect can simplify compliance and improve how you use your space. Ready for an upgrade? Don’t just swap hardware. Take the time to think about how your access control can work smarter for you.