Power Protection FEATURED ARTICLE

For most people, the idea of security starts with antivirus systems and a password, maybe even then extending to malware protection and biometrics. But one critical function that gets little consideration in the world of security measures is the idea of power protection.

Indeed, no security measure—from cameras to antivirals to biometrics—can function without power to run the system. Essentially, without power, no security system of any type or description short of a mechanic door lock with a physical key can operate. Power outages don't just come during storms, either, as they can crop up on bright and sunny days too. Power poles hit by impaired, or merely careless, drivers can kill power just as well as a bolt of lightning can. That's before issues of sabotage get involved, and when the overall condition of the power grid itself comes into play, things only get more distressing.

A recent survey from Duke Energy (News - Alert) spells out the specific costs of power outage events. A momentary outage, for example—the kind that might come from a very brief error at the power company—might cost as much as $11,027. An hour's outage can cost $22,973. Losing that notice—and the ability to plan to work around it—can cost $39,459 per event. Yet the numbers aren't linear; the same survey puts a four hour outage—no mention of whether or not there's notice—at $74,835, rather than the $91,892 that would be suggested from the hour outage. Why an hour's outage costs just over double that of an outage lasting moments is likewise unclear.

Further, some may wonder what the point of power protection is in regards to security; after all, if the computer can't be turned on, then surely it can't be accessed by unauthorized users or authorized users either. But there is more to security than protecting against outside intrusion. Security also extends to protecting files, and power spikes and power surges may damage valuable equipment. Power security measures protect against these potential damaging elements. What's more, power security measures can allow users to carry on slightly in the event of a power outage. Momentary outages become unnoticeable, and major outages become a cause to wind down.. Lost work, and therefore lost productivity, becomes minimal.

There are several other places where power security measures become particularly vital: consider in the case of telephone systems, access control measures, fire alarms and cameras. These are systems that can always use power protection, and with that added power backup, can allow these vital security systems to continue to operate even in a situation without grid power.

Bringing power security measures to the business level allows for the fullest degree of protection for businesses. Not just protection of computers, but also of the wider enterprise as a whole. Cameras, emergency communications and more can all continue operating under any conditions, and that's the kind of thing that keeps a business ultimately secure.