The impossible angle: Pushing the boundaries of network security

Axis Communications, known for pioneering network technology, recently conducted a groundbreaking experiment by deploying one of its modular cameras under an ice hockey rink.

The initiative aimed to showcase the adaptability of Axis systems and challenge conventional camera usage.

Collaborating with a film team and ice hockey players, engineers froze the AXIS F2135-RE Fisheye Sensor within the ice, connected to the AXIS F9114 Main Unit. Despite extreme temperatures, the cameras maintained colour capture and delivered superior low-light performance.

This experiment not only demonstrated Axis’ technological capabilities but also opened up new perspectives and opportunities on surveillance in unconventional environments. To speak about the ice rink experiment and the growing market for network security in the GCC, Gulf Business spoke to Martin Gren, co-founder of Axis Communications.

Q. Why did Axis Network participate in the ice hockey rink experiment and what were your learnings?

The ‘impossible angle’ experiment was an opportunity to showcase the durability of Axis products. Network surveillance cameras must be able to withstand all kinds of extreme operating conditions, while delivering the best results possible, including temperatures as low as -40 degrees.

The experiment was also a chance for us to get creative. It allowed us to show how our solutions can be deployed in unique and versatile ways. Can a modular camera, typically deployed at ATMs and in other small spaces, be used to enhance the viewing experience of a major sporting event?

We set out to push the boundaries of what is possible, and we achieved that goal. Despite being frozen in ice an inch-and-a-half thick, the AXIS F2135-RE Fisheye Sensor captured footage from a unique angle previously unseen in hockey matches.

It revealed not just a new perspective from which lovers of the sport can get closer to the action, but also how cameras can be deployed in challenging conditions without compromising image quality and performance. We learnt that we haven’t yet reached the pinnacle of innovation, and that there are still unexplored opportunities when it comes to surveillance and network camera technology.

Q. While network cameras are ubiquitous, what are the new deployments shaking up the industry?

Recently, a major focus for the security sector has been on product resilience and versatility. Experiments such as the ‘impossible angle’, and offering products that feature robust materials such as stainless steel that helps them withstand harsh environments, shows we’re always pushing the limits of what’s possible with camera technology.

In a way, we are challenging that perspective of ubiquity. That kind of innovation is complemented by a focus on digital security. Robust cybersecurity measures are essential for protecting any network security system and, by deploying the latest technologies, Axis is committed to the digital resilience of its products.

Over the last year, Axis has been expanding into areas other than just network cameras. Network Audio has been a key area as speakers are more commonplace than cameras and they are 99 per cent analog. This will of course change, and if we look back at the numbers from when we began doing IP Video, we can see many similarities, although IP audio is some 20 years behind. In addition we do IP Doorstations and network radars.

There is also an emphasis on expanding the capabilities of network cameras beyond traditional surveillance. Thanks to innovations in AI and advanced analytics, camera deployments in buildings and urban areas can yield more information that operators can then use to inform their decision-making. Network cameras now play a greater role in organisational strategies and help organisations meet their security and sustainability goals.

Q. What are the changes that have occurred or capabilities that are available in today’s security cameras?

The modern security camera is defined by quality and durability. Today’s cameras boast image quality that meets specific requirements of any use case; they are built to withstand the conditions of some of the world’s harshest operating environments. Cameras can either be standalone devices or form part of comprehensive security ecosystems that enable organisations and meet every one of their security requirements.

Security camera manufacturers are constantly enhancing their solutions with new capabilities, with the most prolific trend right now being the integration of AI-driven technologies and advanced data analytics. Cameras are capable of extracting large amounts of information from what they capture without compromising device performance.

Thanks to edge deployments, they also don’t put bandwidth strain on their networks.

Q. How do you ensure cybersecurity of the data captured?

When it comes to securing organisations’ surveillance and remote monitoring systems, cybersecurity is a shared responsibility among all stakeholders involved. This includes everyone in the value chain, from the manufacturer and system integrator to the end user. Organisations cannot afford to not take securing the data they gather seriously. A breach can have disastrous consequences.

In addition to a loss of confidentiality and compromised systems, they can also suffer reputational damage or face legal action from privacy regulators.

To ensure cyber resilience, our cybersecurity team, has defined a model to minimise the risk of vulnerabilities in our products during the design and implementation stages. In addition, our hardware-based security platform, ensures the integrity of devices through measures such as cryptographic keys and features such as signed video, where a digital signature is embedded into the video stream.

Cybersecurity is an always-on process. Criminals are constantly adapting their efforts and deploying new methods to compromise systems and steal data. Because of that, Axis is also constantly adapting our efforts and enhancing our security processes to ensure data captured and stored by our solutions remains protected.

Q. What is the future of AI in network camera usage and how does data privacy play a role in its integration?

In 2023, we saw AI enter the public consciousness in a big way. This year, the trend is set to impact the security sector like no other technological advancement before it. For the sector, the focus is on advanced analytics at the edge of camera networks and the hardware itself.

Network cameras are now equipped with advanced deep learning capabilities that enable operators to vastly improve their data gathering and analytic processes. 2024 will also see companies explore the development and use of security-based applications based on the use of generative AI and large language models (LLMs), such as digital assistants for operators and interactive customer support programs. All this builds on the advancements we have already made in this field and we’re excited to see where the future will take us.

Of course, this trend sparks questions surrounding data privacy and how this technology uses sensitive data. As with any new technology integration, AI needs to meet ethical and data privacy requirements and operators need to ensure their systems are compliant with all relevant regulations. Already, there is much debate surrounding LLMs and the data sets being used in the models.

It’s our role as a manufacturer and industry leader to set the standard when it comes to security integrations.

Read: HID: Why access control is only set to get bigger