Paul Fitzgerald, Managing Director at HKC Security, discusses how cloud connected security systems are transforming the security industry.

Can you tell me about your role at HKC and your background in the security industry?  

As the Managing Director of HKC Security, I oversee the strategic direction and operational management of the company.  

I joined HKC in February 2022 as Head of Sales & Marketing and was promoted to Managing Director in March 2023.

I have over 25 years of experience in the security industry, starting my career as a process engineer at GE Security and later holding key roles at UTC Fire & Security and G4S.  

How are cloud connected security systems transforming the security industry?  

The integration of cloud technology has revolutionised the way intruder alarm systems are managed, offering enhanced flexibility, scalability and accessibility.

Cloud-based solutions allow for remote monitoring and management, enabling centralised control and ensuring security teams can access and control systems from anywhere.   

They also provide secure data storage and regular firmware updates, which help maintain the latest security protocols, enhancing system efficiency and reducing maintenance costs and site visits for installers.   

The rise of IoT devices and smart home ecosystems has also driven demand for interconnected systems. Intruder alarms are now able to integrate seamlessly with smart locks and access control systems, cameras and CCTV and other home automation elements, offering a unified security solution.  

With cloud-based systems, installers can also tap into new recurring revenue streams, by providing end-users with a subscription to platforms such as our SecureComm solution.

The SecureComm app allows end users complete remote control over their systems instantly and for installers to support them with ease.   

What are the key components to consider when implementing a cloud connected security system?  

When implementing a cloud-connected security system, it is crucial to consider the following components:  

• Data protection: Ensuring data confidentiality, integrity and availability through encryption and access controls. Alarm systems must employ advanced encryption, secure firmware updates, and multi-factor authentication to protect against cyber threats 

• Scalability: The ability to scale the system to meet growing demands. By adopting IP-based and cloud-enabled systems, installers can ensure compatibility with emerging technologies and standards, protecting their customers’ investments and allowing solutions to grow and adapt to meet changing requirements 

• Integration: Seamless integration with existing systems and other cloud services offers additional benefits. For example, intruder alarms are now able to integrate with smart locks and access control systems, cameras and CCTV, and other home automation elements, offering a unified security solution 

• Compliance: Adherence to industry standards and regulations is vital, plus solutions generate substantial user data requiring secure storage and compliance with regulations like GDPR 

• Installation: Using cloud-based systems with wireless connectivity simplifies system setup and installation for installers, and reduces the need for extensive wiring, minimising cost and disruption.  

• User training: Providing adequate training for users to effectively manage and operate the system. Mobile apps and smart home integration empower users to monitor and manage their security systems from anywhere, enhancing overall user experience for better convenience and control, so basic training in how to operate systems is essential 

What are the most pressing challenges when it comes to cloud connected systems and how are HKC overcoming them?  

The most pressing challenges include data security and privacy, integration complexities and maintaining consistent performance.

Solutions generate substantial user data requiring secure storage and compliance with regulations like GDPR.

Installers also encounter greater complexity in configuring and maintaining networked systems, necessitating comprehensive training and support.   

HKC addresses these challenges by implementing robust encryption methods, with secure firmware updates, and multi-factor authentication to protect against cyber threats, as well as ensuring compliance with industry standards.   

We offer a range of training and support to our network of professional installers, and our Technical Support department can be reached via telephone or email during office hours.

We also focus on developing scalable and resilient systems to handle varying loads and potential threats.    

How does HKC plan to offer installers a better experience moving forward?  

HKC enhances the installer experience by offering robust and reliable products, sharing technical expertise and creating better tools to help installers build and retain their business.   

Product innovation and future proofing is also crucial, and we are constantly innovating to ensure we stay ahead of industry and technological advancements.

For example, the launch of our recent 4G-WiFi Dual Path Communicator provides our alarm panels with an ultrafast, robust and secure connection to our cloud-based management solution, SecureComm.

This ensures installers can offer their customers the latest developments in connected cloud-based devices.  

By leveraging a 4G connection in the new Dual Path Communicator, installers will be able to access and remotely operate their customer’s alarm system even faster in case of emergency or fault at any time of day.  

Should the 4G network experience an outage, the 4G Communicator has 2G and Wi-Fi fallback to ensure the connection isn’t lost, and customers don’t feel the effects of the outage.

Pre-fitted with a 4G modem and a World SIM Card, plus a Wi-Fi module, remotely monitoring and accessing a HKC alarm panel has never been quicker.  

The device also features jam detection to protect against thieves who may attempt to disrupt security systems with a signal blocker.

What’s more, the 4G Wi-Fi World SIM card supports instant Internet Protocol (IP) signalling to all major alarm monitoring centres, while installers can remotely access the alarm panel through the Smartlink700 PC or Smartphone app to programme, maintain or upgrade the panel’s software.  

The device can be plugged directly onto existing HKC Quantum70 and SW10270 panels, so there is no requirement to replace any homeowner’s existing systems, a simple firmware upgrade is all that’s needed.

An offboard antenna and an external antenna option (AER-4G) also offers an enhanced connection in low signal areas.  

Regular updates are also made to the SecureComm2 app, with the most recent delivering improved functionality, enhanced security features and a refreshed user experience designed to cater to both installers and end users.  

We also provide extensive training, sales support and marketing materials to ensure installers can deliver professional, connected security solutions.

HKC’s customer-centric approach aims to make them the first and only choice for installers.  

Can you tell our readers about some pivotal moments in HKC’s history that has helped build the company’s reliability with customers?  

A pivotal moment in HKC’s history was its acquisition by ASSA ABLOY in 2018, which expanded its resources and capabilities by aligning with other brands within the ASSA ABLOY portfolio to understand the potential for new product integrations and synergies.  

The company’s consistent focus on innovation and customer-centric values has also played a significant role in building its reliability.

Key product launches and strategic expansions into new markets have further solidified HKC’s reputation as a trusted security solutions provider.  

Looking ahead, how does the company plan to utilise its expertise to help educate clients?  

As connectivity and the cloud continues to reshape the security industry, both installers and customers can benefit from the enhanced security, resilience and convenience provided by cloud integration.  

For security installers, embracing this trend can offer new opportunities for growth and innovation.

Far from just offering a competitive advantage, it is now a necessity to deliver cutting-edge solutions that meet the evolving needs of the market to achieve success in today’s connected world.  

Therefore, we think it’s important to help educate both installers and users, leveraging our expertise by offering comprehensive training programs, technical support and sales and marketing resources to our installers.   

We aim to empower clients with the knowledge and tools needed to effectively deliver high quality intruder security systems, ensuring optimal performance and security.

This approach not only enhances installer and end-user satisfaction but also creates long-term relationships built on trust and reliability.  

This article was originally published in the March 2025 Edition of Security Journal UK. To read your FREE digital edition, click here.