The 7 Best Business Perimeter Security Solutions: All You Need to Know

This is the most complete and easy-to-read list of all the business perimeter security solutions.

How can you decide which of the many outdoor perimeter security solutions on the market today is best for your business? Each has its own pros and cons, fits different budgets, meets various needs, and has its own limits.

No need to worry. We’ve got you covered.

Here, we look at how each security solution compares in terms of coverage, cost, dependability, pros, and cons. We also give you extra helpful information based on our many years of working in the physical security industry.

Plenty of perimeter security solutions are available right now in the market but if you want to find an exterior perimeter security solution that fits your organization’s needs and is right for your industry, you’ll love our in-depth look at the top 7 solutions.

Let’s get started.

1. Surveillance cameras and remote video monitoring:

Surveillance cameras and remote video monitoring make the outside of your business more secure by using real-time video footage to confirm alarms.

COVERAGE:

It depends on the specific cameras and live monitoring system in use.

Usually between 100 and 1800 feet.

BUDGET:

It will differ depending on the number and type of CCTV security cameras used, as well as the sophistication of the monitoring system.

Usually between 300$ and 6500$ / camera.

RELIABILITY:

It varies depending on the quality and durability of the cameras and other system components, as well as the quality of installation and maintenance.

APPLICABLE INDUSTRIES:

Enhancing security in various sectors such as automotive dealership security, construction site security, condo security, city surveillance, parking lot security, truck yard security, and others industries. These tailored solutions ensure solid protection across diverse environments, accommodating the unique needs of multiple settings.

PROS:

• There are different configuration customization choices depending on the needs of the company.
• Surveillance cameras and remote video monitoring enable continuous CCTV security camera monitoring of a location even when no one is present.
• A security operator can confirm the alarm before your pre-set procedure is carried out. For example, the operator can use voice-talk down or call the police to stop the crime before it is too late.

CONS:

• The configuration is more complex than for other perimeter security solutions.
• Sometimes alarms go off for no reason or do not go off when they should. So, it is important to set up the cameras correctly and check the performance of the monitoring system regularly.

Ask your security installer to collaborate with the security operation center to schedule regular walkthroughs.

For the most cost-effective solution for your business, should you use regular or thermal cameras with advanced analytics?

Here are some quick facts about each to help you decide which one to choose.

Regular camera with advanced analytics:

How it works:

Regular surveillance video cameras with advanced analytics generate an alarm when a specific object or type of object is recognized. We count human bodies as objects. 

It usually involves using computer vision and machine learning algorithms to examine the security camera footage in real-time.

To set up such a system, the user must classify the object or type of object they want to be able to detect. It involves labeling many examples of the object in question so that the system can learn to recognize it.

Detecting priorly classified objects based on their shape

Once the system has learned from these examples, it should be able to find the object in future video feeds and trigger an alarm if it does.

For a deeper dive into the transformative potential of AI in enhancing perimeter security, don’t miss our blog post “Cloud Video Analytics: 6 Ways It Can Save Your Business Money Now“.

RECOMMENDED PRODUCTS:

• The AVIGILON H5A Camera Line.
• The AXIS P3255-LVE Dome Camera.
• The HANWHA Techwin 6MP AI IR Dome Camera.
• The UNIVIEW 4MP LightHunter Intelligent Vandal-resistant Dome Network Camera.

Key Takeaway

Regular cameras can protect your business from crimes by recognizing the presence of certain objects or types of activity in real-time in well-lit areas.

Regular cameras are our top pick for sites with adequate light sources because it is typically less expensive than thermal cameras.

Thermal cameras with advanced analytics:

How it works:

Thermal cameras can find people by picking up the heat that they give off. The camera comes with a sensor that is sensitive to infrared light.

When the sensor detects infrared radiation in its field of view, it renders an image that shows how warm different things are in the scene.

Detecting humans behind obstacles and in darkness

The human body gives off a lot of heat, and as a result, people tend to stand out in an image produced by a thermal camera.

Even if a person is hiding behind bushes or partial obstacles, the camera can still pick up the heat coming from their body.

Because they do not need visible light to see, thermal cameras can also find people when there is not much light or when it is completely dark.

RECOMMENDED PRODUCTS

• The AVIGILON H5A Thermal Camera
• The SIGHTLOGIX Cameras
• The AXIS Thermal Cameras

Key Takeaway

Thermal cameras are effective for protecting your business against crime when lighting is insufficient and the coverage area is expansive.

For more scenarios where thermal cameras are the best choice to protect your business, read “Thermal Cameras: 3 Good Reasons to Get Them for Top Perimeter Security”

Summary

	SURVEILLANCE CAMERAS + REMOTE LIVE MONITORING
TECHNOLOGY	Cameras with AI analytics
COVERAGE	100 to 1800 feet
BUDGET	300$ to 6500$
INDUSTRIES	Most industries
MAIN ADVANTAGE	Numerous configuration customization option based on the demands of the organization.
MAIN DISADVANTAGE	Configuration is complex.

2. Security radars:

Security radars employ radio waves to detect the presence and movement of objects in a certain area.

COVERAGE:

It depends on the range and capabilities of the specific system in use.

Usually between 120 and 2000 feet.

BUDGET:

It varies according to the system’s size and complexity, as well as the exact features and capabilities requested.

Usually between 600$ and 10 000$ / radar.

RELIABILITY:

It is determined by the system’s quality and the conditions in which it is employed.

Factors such as system maintenance quality and environmental conditions can also have an impact on reliability.

APPLICABLE INDUSTRIES:

Enhancing security across a range of sectors including cannabis security solutions, retail security, autonomous gas stations, shopping center security, and various other industries. These customized solutions provide reliable protection tailored to the diverse requirements of different environments.

PROS:

• It can find the presence and movement of people and objects in a large area, whether there is light or not. 
• It offers the most security for the money paid. It runs continuously without the need for direct human oversight.

CONS:

• It might not be able to give accurate information about the objects it detects.
• It may be sensitive to interference from other sources.
• As perimeter security solutions, radars can be expensive to buy and maintain.

RECOMMENDED PRODUCTS

• The AXIS D2110-VE Security Radar
• The SPOTTER Global Radars
• The MAGOS Radars

How can you improve the performance of your security radars?

ADD A PTZ CAMERA TO YOUR RADAR SECURITY SYSTEM

A PTZ (Pan, Tilt, Zoom) camera zooms in and provides security video footage when the radar detects the presence or movement of an object. The security operator can then analyze the situation and put the pre-determined security procedure into action.

There are many kinds of PTZ cameras.

Summary:

	SECURITY RADARS
TECHNOLOGY	Radio waves
COVERAGE	120 to 2000 feet
BUDGET	600$ to 10,000$
INDUSTRIES	Industrial, Car dealerships, cities, and more
MAIN ADVANTAGE	It does not require light to operate.
MAIN DISADVANTAGE	It is expensive.

3. Short-range outdoor motion detectors (dual-tech):

Dual-tech short-range motion detectors use two different technologies, like infrared and microwave, to identify people or objects in a small area.

COVERAGE:

Depending on the product, it is intended to cover a small to the medium-sized area.

Usually 40 x 40 feet.

BUDGET:

It varies according to the device’s sensitivity, range, and durability.

Usually between 80 to 200$ / device.

RELIABILITY:

In general, it is considered reliable for short distances. However, keep in mind that every security device is prone to false alarms or other issues.

Before making a purchase, it is important to read reviews carefully and look into the company’s reputation as a whole.

Your security installer can help you figure out which solution is best for your business.

APPLICABLE INDUSTRIES:

Short-range outdoor motion detectors can enhance security for various sectors including multi-family residential security, industrial and manufacturing security, commercial building security, other more industries. While this device is generally suitable for most organizations, its practical application can be limited due to the challenges in testing it effectively. These detectors are best used in environments where precise motion detection is essential for safety and security.

PROS:

• The detections are immediate.
• By using two technologies together, this device can make it less likely that weather or animals will cause false alerts.
• Most dual-tech outdoor motion detectors with a short range are easy to set up and can be mounted on the ceiling or the wall.
• It is among the most affordable perimeter security devices & systems available on the market.
• Depending on the device, the user may be able to change the sensitivity levels or customize the coverage area to better suit their needs.

CONS:

• This device is meant to cover a short distance, so it might not be good for large areas.
• The only way to find out if these types of motion detectors are broken is to do a test that requires someone to be on the site. So, if the device is broken and we do not know about it, an intrusion might not be noticed.

*** We do not recommend short-range motion detectors due to the impracticality of testing them.

Summary:

	SHORT RANGE MOTION DETECTORS
TECHNOLOGY	Infrared and / or Microwave
COVERAGE	40 x 40 feet
BUDGET	80$ to 200$
INDUSTRIES	Can fit most, though not generally advised
MAIN ADVANTAGE	The detections are immediate
MAIN DISADVANTAGE	The detecting range is short

4. Long-range outdoor motion detectors:

Long-range motion detectors use infrared or microwave technology to find people or objects in large outdoor areas.

COVERAGE:

It varies depending on the product, but it is usually intended to cover a vast area, such as a perimeter fence or a large outdoor space.

Usually between 70 to 330 feet.

BUDGET:

It fluctuates according to the device’s sensitivity, range, and durability.

Usually between 200 to 1000$ / device.

RELIABILITY:

It relies on the product’s quality and the conditions in which it is utilized.

It can generate many false events for no clear cause.

APPLICABLE INDUSTRIES:

Long-range outdoor motion detectors are particularly beneficial for industries where large, open areas need to be monitored for enhanced security. They are ideal for:

• Construction Site Security: Monitoring large sites to detect unauthorized access or movement.
• Automotive Dealership Security: Protecting extensive car lots from theft or vandalism.
• Truck Yard Security: Securing large truck yards by monitoring for unexpected activity around the perimeter.
• Shopping Center Security: Providing surveillance across wide parking areas and external shopping zones.
• Industrial & Manufacturing Security: Ensuring the safety of expansive industrial grounds where valuable goods and equipment are stored.
• Scrap Metal & Recycling Security: Detecting movement in large areas where high-value materials are often targeted.
• Parking Lot Security: Monitoring large parking facilities to prevent theft and ensure the safety of vehicles.
• Commercial Building Security: Protecting the perimeters of large commercial properties from intrusion.

These detectors use infrared or microwave technology to effectively cover areas ranging from 70 to 330 feet, making them a robust choice for maintaining security across diverse environments.

Their ability to monitor vast spaces ensures that they meet the specific needs of these industries, providing reliable surveillance without the obstruction of physical barriers.

PROS:

• It can detect movement from a great distance away and immediately.
• It is not expensive.

CONS:

• It can give off a lot of false alarms for no clear reason, making it hard to figure out what is wrong.
• Just like with short-range motion detectors, the only way to tell if this type of long-range motion detector is broken is to do a test that requires someone to be at the site. So, if the compromised device is not found, an intrusion might not be identified.

*** We can no longer recommend long-range motion detectors due to the impracticality of testing them.

We believe that it was a good product many years ago, but today there are significantly superior and more reliable technologies available today.

Read our blog: AI VS Motion Detector for more information on motion detectors and how they compare to security cameras equipped with AI.

Summary:

	LONG-RANGE MOTION DETECTORS
TECHNOLOGY	Infrared and / or Microwave
COVERAGE	70 to 330 feet
BUDGET	200$ to 1000$
INDUSTRIES	Any organization whose perimeter is clear of obstacles.
MAIN ADVANTAGE	The detections are immediate.
MAIN DISADVANTAGE	If there are moving obstacles on the perimeter, the false detection rate is significant.

5. Photoelectric sensors:

Photoelectric sensors use a beam of light to identify the presence of an object or an individual.

They add an extra layer of security to the outside of your facility.

COVERAGE:

It depends on the model and the intensity of the beam of light. Some models have a narrow beam that detects objects a few inches away, while others have a wide beam that detects objects at many feet away. 

Usually between 50 to 500 feet.

BUDGET:

It varies greatly based on the product’s characteristics and quality.

Usually between 300$ to 5000$ / sensor.

RELIABILITY:

It relies on the product’s quality and the conditions in which it is utilized.

Trustworthy brands provide a high level of detection reliability.

APPLICABLE INDUSTRIES:

Any business whose outdoor perimeter is linear.

PROS:

• It detects the existence of an object with great precision and has a low false detection rate.
• It has a long lifespan and requires little upkeep, making it cost-effective in the long run.
• It comes in many different shapes, sizes, and beam intensities so that it can be used for a wide range of tasks.

CONS:

• There is no volumetric detection within the perimeter. Volumetric detection is a method for detecting objects or changes in a defined three-dimensional space, usually by analyzing data from sensors or perimeter security camera systems. Photoelectric sensors rely on image-based object detection. It looks at each frame or image separately.
• To work right, there can be nothing between the receiving and sending terminals. Because of this, it is very important to keep the detecting path clear during the winter.
• You might need more than one of the security devices to cover a height of 12 feet.

RECOMMENDED PRODUCTS:

• The OPTEX Photoelectric Detectors
• The KEYENCE Photoelectric Sensors

Summary:

	PHOTOELECTRIC SENSORS
TECHNOLOGY	Beam light
COVERAGE	50 to 500 feet
BUDGET	300$ to 5000$
INDUSTRIES	Any organization whose outdoor perimeter is linear.
MAIN ADVANTAGE	Low rate of false detection.
MAIN DISADVANTAGE	No volumetric detection within the perimeter.

6. Underground vibration sensors:

Underground vibration sensors are usually used to protect critical infrastructure, military bases, and other high-security sites.

They measure how the ground or soil moves in order to find any possible intrusions.

COVERAGE:

It is determined by the type of sensor and its range.

Some sensors have a few meters of range, while others can span several kilometers.

BUDGET:

It depends on the sensor’s characteristics and capabilities, as well as the number being purchased.

Prices can range from a few hundred dollars for a sensor with few features to several thousand dollars for a sensor with many features.

RELIABILITY:

It varies according to the quality of the sensor and the operating conditions.

A vibration sensor’s reliability can be affected by its surroundings (such as temperature, humidity, and debris), the type of soil or ground material, and the frequency and strength of the vibrations being measured.

APPLICABLE INDUSTRIES:

Data centers, high-security government buildings, and laboratories are all places that can benefit from underground vibration sensors.

PROS:

• Criminals cannot figure out where the detection zone is, which makes it hard for them to cheat the system.
• It allows for continual monitoring of the ground around a facility, which can help spot potential intruders before they reach the perimeter.
• It operates in hazardous or difficult situations and is ideal for locations with numerous obstacles.
• It can be used to measure a wide range of frequencies and levels.

CONS:

• Snow can stop the system from working because it stops the vibrations. So, the snow needs to be cleared from the detection points.
• You cannot put the vibration sensors near a road. Depending on how far away they are, cars and trucks can set off the system and cause false alarms.
• This perimeter security solution can be somewhat expensive due to the installation time and required technology.

RECOMMENDED PRODUCTS:

• The SENSTAR Buried Sensors

Summary:

	UNDERGROUND VIBRATION SENSORS
TECHNOLOGY	Vibrations
COVERAGE	Few meters to several kilometers
BUDGET	Few hundreds to several thousands
INDUSTRIES	Data centers, High security government buildings, laboratories, and more.
MAIN ADVANTAGE	Invisible secured area making it an undetectable perimeter security solution.
MAIN DISADVANTAGE	It is expensive.

7. Fence sensors:

Fence perimeter security sensors detect and warn when someone enters or exits a perimeter through a fence.

They are frequently used to enhance security and prevent unauthorized access in high-security establishments such as prisons.

COVERAGE:

Depending on their type and sensitivity, they cover a certain length of the fence.

Some fence sensors cover a vast region, while others target specific points or portions.

BUDGET:

The size, complexity, and features of the system and sensors affect perimeter security fence solutions costs.

They may cost several thousand to several hundred thousand dollars.

RELIABILITY:

It depends on product quality and usage conditions. Some fence perimeter security sensors work better in specific climates or settings.

To choose the best product, you should talk to your security expert or any good perimeter security companies.

APPLICABLE INDUSTRIES:

Any gated facility that requires a high level of protection.

PROS:

• When it is well-maintained, it gives off few false alarms and can tell if someone cuts, climbs, or lifts the steel mail.

CONS:

• This perimeter security solution must always be in perfect working order. If the meshes are not tightened when it is windy, there will be a lot of false alarms.
• A person can be lifted into the yard without setting off the alarm using a platform. In this way, a possible thief could do a lot of damage.

RECOMMENDED PRODUCTS:

• The SENSTAR Fence Sensors
• The SOUTHWEST MICROWAVE Fence Detection Systems

The first line of defense:

As a first line of defense, we recommend installing fence sensors. We believe a second protection zone is necessary.

So, if a break-in happens, an extra solution like monitored security cameras will be capable of catching it.

Summary:

	FENCE SENSORS
TECHNOLOGY	Fiber optic, Cable-based, etc.
COVERAGE	Precise points or vast areas
BUDGET	Several thousand to several hundred thousand dollars
INDUSTRIES	Organizations requiring a high level of security.
MAIN ADVANTAGE	Low rate of false alarms.
MAIN DISADVANTAGE	It requires extensive upkeep.

You may also be interested in these blog posts:

• How Much Remote Video Monitoring Services Cost in 2023?
• A Beginner Guide to Remote Video Monitoring in 2023.
• Differences between monitored vs unmonitored security system.

FAQs.

What are 2 outer or external perimeter security measures?

It is recommended to combine effective solutions to achieve top outdoor perimeter security. For the first line of defence, we recommend setting up a sturdy metal fence around the property’s perimeter. High-security facilities, such as prisons, can invest in fence sensors that detect attempts to cut or climb the fence. Because the sensors can be expensive, a true assessment of their necessity should be made.

For the second layer of protection, we recommend strategically placed security cameras around the property’s perimeter, as well as remote video monitoring. In this manner, the camera’s footage can be remotely reviewed in real time by security operators at the live video monitoring centre, and intrusions can be averted.

What are the 5 D’s of outdoor perimeter security?

Deter: The most important feature of an outdoor perimeter security solution is its ability to deter crime. When no crime is committed, operations can continue to run smoothly, no time is wasted on paperwork and repairs, no money is lost due to theft or vandalism, and no delays occur. Outdoor security measures that businesses can use to deter crime include visible security cameras, “Live surveillance” signs, fences, and bright lights during off-hours.

Detect: If a malicious person tries to break into your property, it is critical that your outdoor perimeter security solution detects the attempt and immediately alerts your security personnel. This way, the crime can be stopped before it causes any harm. For example, the camera AI detects suspicious behaviour and sends a real-time alarm to the monitoring center.

Deny: A good outdoor perimeter security solution allows you to deny unauthorized individuals access. For example, security operators at the monitoring center can remotely check visitors’ ID and grant or deny access using two-way audio and one-way video at gates or entrances.

Delay: Outdoor perimeter solutions must also impede intruders in the process of breaking in. This allows time for the security devices to detect the burglars and for law enforcement to arrive at the scene. Examples of perimeter solutions that could delay criminals include robust metal fences and strong locks.

Defend: The ultimate objective of implementing outdoor perimeter security measures is to defend one’s property from all external threats. For instance, security cameras and remote video monitoring enable security operators at the monitoring center to conduct voice talk-down interventions, thereby discouraging the majority of intruders.

What are the commonly used perimeter security devices?

Today, both short- and long-range motion detectors are still widely utilised. However, we do not advise employing them as a stand-alone perimeter solution because they are not dependable. In fact, they generate numerous false alarms. We recommend using a security camera with AI and remote video monitoring for more reliable outdoor detection. This solution provides the highest level of security, as each alarm is verified by a human in real time. Radars, photoelectric sensors, fence sensors, and underground vibration sensors are additional effective perimeter security devices.

What brands are perimeter intrusion detection systems?

Here are top brands for perimeter intrusion security cameras: AXIS, AVIGILON, HANWHA, SIGHTLOGIX.

What is an example of a perimeter barrier?

In the field of physical security, you have 3 types of barriers.

1. Passive barriers: Passive barriers are human-made or natural obstacles installed around the perimeter of one’s property. Their presence serves as a first line of defence against intruders. It is classified as having a low to medium level of security. Walls, fences, bollards, trees, dense bushes, and large rocks are some examples.
2. Active barriers: Active barriers are designed to control traffic flow and use a mechanized system. They offer a higher level of protection. Pivoting arm gates, rising barriers, retracting bollards, speedgates, tripod, and full height security turnstiles are a few examples.
3. Access control: Access control points are locations where security personnel work to grant or deny visitors access. Access control can be performed on-site or remotely via a monitoring center. This method provides the greatest level of security.

What is the cost of perimeter intrusion detection system?

The price of perimeter intrusion detection systems varies greatly depending on the devices used, the size of the area to be protected, the location of the property to be monitored, and a variety of other factors.

What is the most common type of device used to protect the perimeter of a facility?

The most common type of device used to effectively protect a facility’s perimeter is a combination of motion detectors and AI-enabled security cameras.

Lighting is the most effective way to protect a facility’s perimeter without using video surveillance. Make sure your facility’s entire perimeter is well-lit, especially at night and during off-hours. Criminals dislike being exposed when they attempt to break in. Furthermore, light can give the impression that people are still present on the premises.

Which barrier is used to keep intruders away?

To keep intruders out, various types of barriers can be used. Passive barriers, such as fences, walls, bollards, dense vegetation, and rocks, serve as a first line of defence against intrusions. Mechanized or active barriers, such as rising barriers, various types of turnstiles, and retracting bollards, can be used to deter crime for increased security. Pitstops operated by humans in-person or remotely provide the most efficient access control.

Who would need a perimeter security system?

Homeowners frequently use more basic perimeter security systems such as fences, glass break sensors, door sensors, and alarm systems. Security cameras, remote video monitoring, underground vibration sensors, photoelectric sensors, fence sensors, and radars are more advanced perimeter security systems that are suitable for construction sites, car dealerships, truck yards, parking lots, cities, retail stores, condos, cannabis farms and dispensaries, and high-security facilities such as prisons, laboratories, and government buildings.

What is the best perimeter alarm system?

The best perimeter alarm system is one that has all of the features needed to respond to the needs of your home or business while remaining within your budget.

For home perimeter security, the Ring Alarm Home Security System, the Guardline Wireless Driveway Alarm, and the Blink Wireless Outdoor HD Security Camera appear to be the most popular.

Axis, Bosch, and Senstar are all trusted companies for the best perimeter intrusion solutions when it comes to alarm systems for businesses. 

What is the most important perimeter control system?

The most important perimeter control system is determined by the company’s mission and security needs. Because of its proactivity, video analytics is frequently the most relevant perimeter control system. It detects suspicious activity as soon as it occurs and sends an alert to security personnel, allowing them to act quickly in accordance with the appropriate SOP.

What are the best practices for network perimeter security?

Auditing the network to ensure a secure network design, using firewalls at external connectivity points, applying and maintaining stringent firewall settings, enforcing VPN for remote access, planning a data backup and instituting a recovery plan, encrypting sensitive data, employing multifactor authentication, educating end-users on network safety protocols, and having an infrastructure maintenance system are all best practises for perimeter security.

What are the different perimeter security solutions?

Surveillance cameras with video analytics, security radars, short- and long-range motion detectors, photoelectric sensors, underground vibration sensors, video management, access control, and physical security measures such as fences, gates, lighting, live surveillance warning signs, locks, and barriers are examples of perimeter security solutions.

What are the 2 types of perimeter guard?

The most prevalent type of perimeter guard monitors the perimeter around a machine in a factory or manufacturing environment. The second type of security guard consists of handrail and guardrail systems used in construction applications, as well as security fencing and enclosures used to secure restricted areas.

What is edge security vs perimeter security?

The network edge is where devices connect to the Internet, whereas the network perimeter is the actual boundary between private and public networks.

What is the most common form of perimeter security devices?

The most common type of perimeter physical security device or mechanism is lighting. When your entire site is well-lit, personnel can be easily identified and intrusions can be detected. 

When it comes to more advanced technologies, surveillance cameras equipped with video analytics are the most common and effective perimeter security device.

Conclusion:

Here you have it.

You need to know all the important facts about the 7 most popular perimeter security detection systems so you can decide which is best for your business.

Now, do you think there’s one technology that would work better to eliminate trespassers on your site?

Or has this complete list made you want to change the technology you already have?

We’re curious! Put your answers in the box below.

Ready to enhance your security? Contact us today to discover the perfect solution tailored to your needs!