Security guard technology has come a long way. What used to be a flashlight and a notepad are now AI cameras, GPS tracking, and real-time reporting. Nowadays, guards need to be just as familiar with mobile apps as they are with their other equipment. Today, we’ll dive deeper into what’s new and what’s coming in the industry.

In this article, we’ll cover: 

• Evolution of technology in security
• How technology is transforming the security guard industry
• The future of guard tech security

Let’s start by looking at how security technology has evolved over time.

The evolution of security guard technology

Back in the day, being a guard mostly meant walking a route, writing things down, and calling things in over the radio. Then came different kinds of surveillance, two-way radios, and access control systems — and that was just the beginning. There are now also digital apps and tools to help companies with security workforce management, eliminating the need for pen, paper, and spreadsheets.

Over time, new tools have shifted how guards do their jobs. Real-time reporting, GPS tracking, and AI-powered alerts are helping guards respond faster, stay safer, and cover more ground. It’s no longer just about being present, it’s now also about being connected and informed.

How is technology transforming the security guard industry?

New technologies are changing how guards work every day. Let’s break down how:

1. Advanced surveillance and AI integration

Modern surveillance isn’t just about recording, it’s also about spotting problems before they turn into something bigger. Today, AI and remote tools are giving guards more eyes in more places. Here’s how:

• AI-powered surveillance: Smart systems like Verkada or Rhombus can detect motion, loitering, or even identify specific objects. They alert guards instantly when something is detected, so the guards don’t have to constantly stare at a screen for hours.
  
  
• Drones and remote monitoring: Sites like oil refineries or solar farms use drones to patrol areas too large or dangerous for foot patrols. Companies like Knightscope also use robot units that monitor and send footage back to a control center.

2. Mobile and GPS tracking for security guards

Staying on top of guard locations and check-ins used to mean paperwork and phone calls. Now it’s handled through GPS and mobile apps that update instantly. 

Today, companies can use tools like Trackforce Valiant and Silvertrac to let supervisors see where guards are, what routes they’ve taken, and any incidents logged, all from a mobile device.

Another option is software like Belfry, which offers an all-in-one platform for security guard and patrol management, reporting, licensing compliance, and more.

3. Automated scheduling and workforce management

Keeping track of shifts, pay, and sick days can be a mess without the right system. Tech is stepping in to make scheduling and payroll less of a headache. 

Platforms like Belfry let supervisors assign shifts, track hours, and send updates straight to a guard’s phone. They help guards know their schedule without having to call in, reducing the chance of confusion, so companies can save time on paperwork and reduce missed shifts.

4. Instant communication and reporting

Fast, clear communication matters when there’s a problem on-site. Radios aren’t going away, but they’ve got backup now. Now technology exists for:

• App-based messaging: Tools like Belfry, Slack, or custom-built dispatch systems allow guards to chat with supervisors or other guards from within their own phones.
  
  
• Incident reporting on the fly: Many apps also allow guards to file digital reports with photos, videos, and GPS stamps — no need to wait until the end of a shift. Everyone is informed immediately, and the reports are kept in the system for later review.

5. Access control and smart entry systems

Controlling who gets in and out of buildings is a big part of security work. Thankfully, new systems are making this job quicker and safer. Here’s what’s been working in 2025:

• Smart badge and facial recognition: Companies use tools like HID or Alta (formerly Openpath) to let only approved workers through, and guards can monitor access right from a tablet. There are also other simpler systems like RFID and biometrics scanners.
  
  
• Remote lock and unlock: If systems like these are installed, guards don’t need to walk across a warehouse to open a gate — they can do it with a tap through cloud-based access control tools.

Will security guards be replaced by technology?

It’s a fair question, especially with all the new gadgets and AI popping up. But the short answer is no — tech might change how guards work, but it doesn’t replace the need for trained people on the ground.

A camera can alert you when there’s something wrong or if there’s an anomaly, but a guard is still needed to decide what to do about that information. Real situations still need judgment, quick thinking, and sometimes just plain people skills, something that no drone or robot can copy.

That said, technology is changing how guard performance is measured. Many companies now use KPIs (key performance indicators) like patrol completion rates, response times, and report accuracy. These help track what’s working, spot problems early, and show clients that the guard team’s doing the job right. Tools that track KPIs don’t take the place of guards, they help them stand out.

So instead of thinking about tech as competition, it makes more sense to see it as a tool that helps guards do a better job, stay safer, and prove their value.

The future of security guard technology 

We’ve discussed what security technology is. But today, tech is moving fast, and some of what sounded like science fiction a few years ago is already being tested out in the field. Tech is continuously evolving and guards who understand how to work with the tech are going to be in the best spot moving forward. Here’s what’s developing:

• AI-powered threat prediction: Some systems are starting to use patterns, like unusual movement, time of day, or known risks, to predict when and where a problem might happen. Tools like Actuate and BriefCam are helping companies take a more proactive approach.
  
  
• Robotic guards and drones: While they’re not replacing human guards, robots like the Knightscope K5 or drone patrols are already being used to scan parking lots, monitor perimeters, and handle boring or risky routes.
  
  
• Machine learning for incident analysis: Instead of digging through hours of footage, smart systems can now scan and sort video based on what happened, whether it was a slip and fall, a vehicle entering the wrong area, or someone bypassing a checkpoint. This helps companies respond quicker and improve training based on real patterns.

How Belfry can help you keep up with security technology 

Keeping up with security guard technology doesn’t have to mean juggling five different tools or spending all day chasing updates. It also shouldn’t mean confusing your guards and making it challenging for them to do their jobs. 

With the right tools in place, your team can stay focused, work smarter, and handle the job with confidence. That’s where Belfry comes in.

Belfry is an all-in-one security guard software that puts everything in one place, making it easier to manage your team.

Here’s how Belfry can help to streamline your operations:

• Easy scheduling: Minimize scheduling conflicts and avoid unmanned shifts thanks to Belfry’s automated scheduling features that assign shifts based on site requirements, officer certifications, and training.
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• Increased officer accountability: Belfry has GPS tracking and NFC-based guided tours to help you make sure your guards are adhering to their post orders. Geofencing alerts help alert you if a guard leaves their designated area.
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• Digital incident reporting: Goodbye pen and paper — guards can more easily keep you up-to-date by sending digital incident reports through the Belfry mobile app. They can even attach any evidence if needed.
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• Track certifications: Prevent license compliance lapses by inputting your officers’ licenses and certifications. Belfry tracks renewal dates automatically and sends notifications when they’re coming up.
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• Custom reporting: Need to create reports? Belfry allows you to design tailored reports, including incident documentation, patrol activities, and compliance status.
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• Simplified payroll: Belfry automates time and attendance tracking to make payroll easier. It also tracks overtime, labor expenses, and timesheets to make financial reporting a breeze.

See how Belfry can help you simplify the way you run your security team — no extra tools, no guesswork. Schedule a Free Demo Today.