Read on to learn about open-source security and explore 4 ways open-platform security can reinforce a business’ security management.
We often hear open source in conversations revolving around technology and digital solutions. It refers to software that any person or organization can freely use and modify.
In a survey conducted by both the Open Source Initiative (OSI) and OpenLogic, 77% of respondents said they increased open-source software use over the previous year. The survey also highlighted that access to innovation, reduced costs, and added security are among the most frequent reasons organizations resort to open-source software.
One recent trend is open-source solutions to improve and strengthen a business’ security system and operations. Resorting to proprietary solutions alone may not be enough to counter the increasing number of complex threats organizations face these days while also posing a problem of low compatibility between technologies produced by different manufacturers. In this article, we will dig deeper into open-source security and explore four ways open-platform security can reinforce a business’ security management.
#1 Seamless Integration of a System’s Components
Future-oriented organizations must be flexible and agile to survive in fast-changing times and avoid falling behind the competition. Relying exclusively on legacy software can make it difficult for different system components to work together, damaging the business’ security and growth. Sometimes the cost of using legacy software is not immediately apparent.
Operators may feel that the system is still fulfilling its purpose, and they don’t realize that it’s becoming obsolete and increasingly difficult to upgrade. Platforms that operate on the cloud and are built on open sources can solve this problem.
By using these platforms, the organization can achieve a higher level of interoperability between its security system’s components and better integration with legacy or non-smart systems. In comparison to legacy systems, open-source platforms also make it quicker and easier for security managers to fix bugs, errors, and other issues that may arise.
#2 Higher Compliance with Common Standards
Open platforms are also more effective in meeting specific requirements or security compliances, as in the case of ensuring ONVIF compatibility. The acronym ONVIF stands for Open Network Interface Forum (ONVIF) and refers to a standard for the interface between various IP-based security products. Designing a security system is a complex activity that consists of building a reliable network of tools and components. Devices like access control solutions, video cameras, and management systems must communicate seamlessly.
For this to happen, they must use the same language and protocols. And that’s exactly what the goal of the ONVIF standard is. All devices complying with this standard can effectively be integrated into one system, regardless of the company that manufactured each device. This is essential in an age where hundreds of providers produce security devices. Moreover, the existence of a common standard allows said manufacturers to focus more on the development of practical technologies than on creating the software needed to integrate them.
#3 Increased Productivity and Accuracy of IoT Devices
This increased level of integration and flexibility provided by open-source cloud security also leads to a higher level of effectiveness of those IoT devices that are part of the system. Better communication between tools produced by different manufacturers results in enriched data that allow for more productive and accurate workflows.
For example, integrating access control, HVAC, and lighting devices produced by different manufacturers can lead to reduced energy consumption and higher savings. Access control systems can alert lighting and HVAC tools that the room is empty, leading to these devices automatically turning off the light and reducing the room temperature. This is just one of the countless examples of how better integration results in higher productivity, efficiency, and, ultimately, profitability.
#4 Remote Management
Traditionally, security management required the presence of on-prem systems and personnel. While this approach has worked for many decades, the advent of cloud solutions is gradually making it obsolete, not to mention costly. Integrating cloud-based IoT devices through open-source platforms allows those in charge of managing security systems to supervise all operations from any location and do so in a cost-effective manner. This is particularly important for large organizations with extensive facilities in multiple locations.
#5 Open Platform Security and DevOps
Another benefit of open-source platforms is that they are compatible with DevOps, a software development methodology focused on automation. Thanks to DevOps, organizations can quickly and easily deploy their security systems in any venue, knowing that the same installation process will be used regardless of the location. This increases their scalability and makes integrating new devices or components into the system easier.
Moreover, DevOps also helps to improve security practices through automation and continuous monitoring of processes. This is key in an age where cyber threats are quickly increasing, as it allows organizations to detect any malicious activity before it can cause significant damage. Although this type of automation requires time and resources for its implementation, it is essential for any organization that wants to ensure the safety of its data and systems.
