Cook and Boardman Group Blog

The Access Advantage: Starting the Year Secure

Written by Cook & Boardman | Feb 25, 2025 3:58:58 PM

Kickstart 2025 with strategies to optimize security and access management for the upcoming months.

The Advantage Feature

The 3 Big Security Trends to Watch in 2025

Security demands are changing, and access control systems are advancing to keep pace with modern facility needs. From leveraging cloud technology to embracing mobile credentials, these trends are shaping the way organizations protect their spaces and streamline operations. 

Here’s what to expect in 2025:

Cloud-based Solutions

It cannot be overstated just how fast cloud-based solutions are reshaping access management. With more and more businesses using or considering smart access control, these systems are rapidly becoming the standard for modern security operations. 

Mobile Credentials 

The rise of mobile credentials is changing the way people engage with access control systems, with 77% usage increasing nearly tenfold in the past two years and 80% of American universities already adopting or planning to implement them. This technology is quickly becoming the new standard. 

Real-time Monitoring

Modern access control systems have evolved from reactive tools into proactive security solutions. Real-time monitoring empowers organizations to detect and respond to threats as they happen, providing critical insights to prevent unauthorized access and address vulnerabilities before they escalate. 

Want to learn more about the security trends for your industry coming in 2025? 

 

 

The Advantage in Action

The Waldorf Astoria Case Study

Orlando, FL 

The Waldorf Astoria Orlando, a prestigious 502-room hotel and luxury resort, partnered with two of our Cook & Boardman branches - Pinnacle Door & Hardware and A3 Communications - for a comprehensive enhancement of its openings and security infrastructure. Our team installed and integrated high-quality doors, frames, and hardware with cutting-edge video surveillance and access control systems to elevate the safety and functionality of the facility. Combining aesthetic and operational excellence, our expertise in opening and security technology created a seamless, secure, and modernized environment that meets the evolving needs of luxury hospitality.  

 

Advantage Insights

The Most Overlooked Security Checkpoints in Facilities

Owning and operating an electronic security system requires much more than a “set-and-forget" approach. It’s critical to stay on top of system health to ensure functionality and minimize gaps in protection. We’ve compiled three key, and often overlooked, security checkpoints to stay on top of to ensure your security systems functions optimally. 

 

System Updates for software-dependent technologies are often required (usually every 1-2 years) to fix bugs, add new features, and enhance overall performance. Without regular updates, systems may become incompatible with newer devices or fail to function as intended. 

 

 

Preventative Maintenance is the routine upkeep of security systems. Much like one would go to the doctor for a check-up, your security systems need to be inspected (and serviced, if necessary) to detect mishaps like dirty or obstructed camera lenses, disconnected or malfunctioning cameras, or faulty door contacts. It’s always better to catch these issues early rather than discover them after an incident when your technology fails to function as needed. 

 

Updating Outdated Technology is another key factor to consider. Old technology can leave your organization at an increased risk for security breaches. For example, outdated access control readers are susceptible to cloning - leaving your sensitive areas vulnerable to a bad actor armed with nothing more than an inexpensive access card and the right software to duplicate credentials. It's crucial to ensure your technology is updated when needed, to minimize easily preventable security breaches. 

 

 

Resource Spotlight: Access Essentials

Choosing the Right Access Method:  Balancing Security, Efficiency, and Scalability

 

Are you thinking about getting a new access control system or upgrading your old system? Check out our eBook on “Choosing the Right Access Method:  Balancing Security, Efficiency, and Scalability” for guidance from an industry leader on how to select the best system for your needs.