Physical security systems must be incorporated into enterprise IT network strategies, Genetec Inc. said on April 1, 2026, as digital transformation accelerates across the Middle East and cyber threats grow more sophisticated.

The Montreal-based company, which serves over 42,500 customers across more than 159 countries, directed its call at governments and enterprises throughout the region. Genetec has operated in the physical security software sector for over 25 years.

Connected Devices Expand the Enterprise Attack Surface

Governments and enterprises across the Middle East are investing heavily in smart cities, critical infrastructure, transportation, and energy projects. As these environments become more connected and data-driven, video surveillance and access control systems now operate on enterprise networks. Consequently, they must be secured to the same standard as other IT assets.

Physical security systems currently run alongside core business applications and data, making them part of the overall IT attack surface. However, many organizations still treat physical security as a separate domain from IT. This separation creates blind spots in network visibility and cybersecurity coverage.

Unsecured Devices Create Entry Points for Attackers

Connected devices that are not properly secured can become entry points for attackers. Without proper network segmentation and consistent oversight, vulnerabilities in cameras, sensors, and access control systems can expose broader business systems to risk. Moreover, the rising volume of cyber threats facing Middle East organizations makes this a core component of enterprise risk management.

“Organizations throughout the region are rapidly modernizing their infrastructure and connecting more devices than ever before. Physical security systems are now fully integrated into enterprise networks, which means they must be managed with the same cybersecurity rigor as any other IT asset. Strong collaboration between IT and physical security teams is essential to reducing risk and strengthening operational resilience.”

Hassan Makki, Area Sales Director, Genetec

Physical Security Best Practices Recommended by Genetec

Genetec recommended applying core cybersecurity best practices to physical security infrastructure. These include strong authentication, regular software updates, encryption, and proper network segmentation. Applying these measures can significantly reduce an organization’s exposure to risk.

  • Strong authentication across all connected devices
  • Regular firmware and software updates for cameras and sensors
  • Encryption of data transmitted by physical security systems
  • Proper network segmentation to isolate physical security infrastructure
  • Shared visibility and accountability between IT and physical security teams

Close collaboration between IT and physical security teams ensures shared visibility, accountability, and consistent cybersecurity standards across the enterprise. Furthermore, this alignment reduces the risk of gaps that attackers could exploit.

Future Outlook for Physical Security in the Middle East

As the boundary between physical security and cybersecurity continues to blur, integrating physical security into IT strategy will be critical for enterprises across the Middle East. Genetec stated that organizations building secure and resilient infrastructure must treat physical security systems with the same rigor applied to any other networked IT asset.

Genetec’s portfolio includes video management, access control, automatic license plate recognition (ALPR), intrusion detection, intercom, and digital evidence management solutions. The company is headquartered in Montreal, Canada, and operates through an extensive network of accredited channel partners and consultants worldwide.