However, the additional connectivity required can increase cybersecurity risks. To reduce these risks, owners, facilities managers, IT specialists, manufacturers and others can work together to strengthen and maintain effective cybersecurity practices.
These countermeasures include secure network design, plans to maintain these systems (including periodic software updates) and robust authentication, ultimately protecting them against malicious activity.
By developing plans and establishing ownership of these long-term processes, stakeholders can benefit from intelligent systems without taking unnecessary risks. Smart building technologies are the future because they improve efficiency and performance. These systems often rely on AI and other sophisticated technologies.
They can control HVAC, lighting, irrigation, security and other functions to simplify building management and improve energy savings, sustainability, comfort and compliance. Smart building technologies often require additional connectivity (within the building and to internet services) to deliver their promised benefits.
This connectivity can introduce additional risk; however, that risk is entirely manageable. By following best practices and collaborating with cross-functional teams, building owners and other stakeholders can protect these systems, helping them realise the benefits without taking on additional risk.
