Why Verkada's Alarm System Outperform Legacy Alarm Products

In today’s rapidly evolving security landscape, traditional alarm systems are struggling to keep pace with the demands of modern organizations. Outdated hardware, fragmented monitoring, and limited integration have made legacy alarm systems increasingly inefficient and expensive to maintain.

Enter Verkada Alarms — a cloud-managed, all-in-one solution designed to unify intrusion detection, video surveillance, access control, and environmental monitoring on a single, intuitive platform. Below, we’ll explore how Verkada alarms deliver a next-generation security experience far beyond what legacy products can offer.

1. Unified Security Ecosystem

Legacy alarm systems often operate in isolation — requiring separate platforms for cameras, door sensors, and monitoring. Verkada eliminates this complexity with a fully integrated ecosystem.
Through Verkada Command, users can manage alarms, cameras, access control, and environmental sensors from one secure cloud dashboard. This integration allows operators to verify incidents instantly, reduce false alarms, and respond faster to real threats.

2. Cloud-Managed Simplicity

Traditional alarm systems depend heavily on local servers, manual updates, and complicated configuration. Verkada’s cloud-based management model removes these pain points.
Administrators can arm/disarm systems remotely, receive real-time alerts, and make configuration changes from any browser or mobile device. No VPNs, no outdated firmware — just seamless security that updates automatically.

3. Smarter Event Verification

One of the biggest frustrations with legacy systems is false alarms — often leading to costly fines and wasted resources. Verkada’s AI-powered video verification uses integrated cameras and analytics to instantly confirm alarm triggers.
This ensures security teams and monitoring centers focus on real events, not motion-triggered false positives. The result: faster response times and greater trust in your alarm data.

4. Professional Monitoring with Built-In Intelligence

Verkada offers 24/7 professional monitoring with live video verification through its secure Command platform. When an alarm is triggered, operators can access real-time camera footage, assess the situation, and escalate as needed — all within seconds.
Legacy systems typically rely on separate monitoring portals, adding friction and increasing response time.

5. Effortless Scalability

Scaling traditional alarm systems often means new servers, complex wiring, and costly site visits. Verkada’s plug-and-play hardware and cloud-first architecture make expansion simple.
Adding new sites or devices takes minutes — not days — and configurations automatically sync across your organization.

6. Modern Analytics and Insights

Beyond intrusion detection, Verkada alarms provide valuable operational insights. From after-hours motion reports to employee access trends, Verkada’s analytics help businesses optimize operations and safety policies.
Legacy systems, by contrast, offer little to no data visibility beyond basic logs.

7. Secure by Design

Security is built into Verkada’s DNA. All communication is end-to-end encrypted, devices feature tamper detection, and software updates are delivered automatically from the cloud.
Legacy systems, often reliant on open ports or outdated firmware, leave organizations vulnerable to cyber threats.

8. Lower Total Cost of Ownership

While legacy alarm systems often appear inexpensive up front, ongoing maintenance, manual monitoring, and frequent service calls add up quickly. Verkada reduces these costs through:

• Fewer false alarms and truck rolls

• Automatic updates (no maintenance contracts)

• Simplified deployment and training

Over time, organizations experience significant ROI while maintaining stronger, more adaptive security.

Final Thoughts

Verkada Alarms for commercial businesses represent the future of intrusion detection and facility protection — one built for speed, intelligence, and integration. By moving beyond the fragmented tools of legacy alarm products, businesses gain a unified, proactive, and scalable security solution that evolves with their needs.

If your business, school or state agency in Honolulu Hawaii and beyond is ready to modernize its security infrastructure, Verkada alarms offer the simplicity, intelligence, and reliability legacy systems simply can’t match. Get in touch with Unified Security Partners, a locally owned Hawaii Verkada partner, for a custom security assessment and quote.

Capture Unseen Moments Anywhere with the Verkada CR63‑E Remote LTE Camera

In a world where every second counts and remote sites are increasingly vulnerable, you need a security solution that travels with you — that monitors every asset, even when there’s no power, no WiFi, and no traditional network infrastructure. That’s precisely what the Verkada CR63-E delivers.

🧠 Why the CR63-E is a Game Changer

Truly Remote Coverage — Because it operates over LTE, the CR63-E removes the dependency on local network infrastructure. Perfect for construction sites, mobile command posts, distributed assets such as storage yards, and any location where wired connectivity is unreliable or non-existent.
Edge-Powered Intelligence — With onboard storage (e.g., 2 TB for up to 90 days retention) and processing, the CR63-E keeps recording even if its network link is temporarily interrupted.
Scalable Cloud + Edge Architecture — From the cloud you can manage, monitor, and configure globally — yet most of the heavy lifting happens locally on the device so you don’t need massive bandwidth or constant high-speed links.
Enterprise-Grade Reliability — Built for harsh environments, with weather-proof, rugged design, optimized for remote installations that may sit unattended for long periods.

🔍 Key Features at a Glance

• LTE connectivity for cellular link (no wired network required)

• Onboard storage (e.g., 2 TB for up to 90 days of retention)

• Hybrid cloud architecture: edge processing + cloud management

• Rugged outdoor-rated design suitable for remote deployment

• Rapid deployment model: minimal on-site infrastructure, fewer network dependencies

• Streamlined management & alerts via cloud platform

🎯 The Business Case – Why It Pays Off

Remote Asset Protection
You likely have valuable assets in remote locations: equipment, utilities, trailers, pipeline sites, temporary structures, or mobile operations. Traditional surveillance often fails here due to lack of wiring, unreliable power/network, or high installation costs. The CR63-E fills that gap — connect over LTE, record locally, and monitor anywhere.

Reduced Risk, Faster Response
With cellular connectivity and onboard intelligence, you get real-time alerts and video access no matter where you are. That means faster incident verification, faster resolution, and less downtime or loss.

Lower Total Cost of Ownership
Skip trenching, wiring, building a network closet. Since the unit self-contains storage and connectivity (via LTE), installation and operating overhead drop significantly for remote sites.

Scalable for Multi-Site Deployments
If you manage dozens or hundreds of remote sites (retail, telecom towers, construction, utility substations), the CR63-E gives you a standardized, remote-ready solution. One device, one management platform, global visibility.

✅ Ideal Use Cases

• Construction or mining sites with no fixed network

• Temporary or pop-up installations (events, mobile clinics, emergency response)

• Utility infrastructure: pump stations, substations, pipeline access points

• Remote warehouses, equipment yards

• Transportation and logistics hubs in rural locations

🔧 Real-World Considerations & Tips

• Ensure cellular coverage: Though LTE is pervasive, check signal strength and plan for mounting in areas with optimal reception (pole-top, roof).

• Power planning: While LTE solves connectivity, you’ll still need a reliable power source (solar + battery or local mains) if the site lacks fixed power.

• Retention planning: 2 TB storage might provide ~90 days of retention — plan your archive strategy and incident review window accordingly.

• Environmental ruggedness: Confirm the mounting location is protected (or rated) for weather, extreme temps, vandal resistance — remote sites are often more exposed.

• Remote management readiness: Ensure your operations team has the tools and permissions to view alerts, pull footage, and manage the devices remotely — from day one.

🚀 Final Thought

If you’re managing assets outside the reach of “traditional” surveillance networks — whether that’s due to geography, temporary installations, cost constraints, or infrastructure limitations — the Verkada CR63-E is precisely the device built for the job. It combines enterprise-grade features with the flexibility of LTE and edge storage, offering a true remote surveillance platform. If you are located in Honolulu Hawaii or surrounding areas like Ewa Beach, Kapolei, Mililani, Aiea on that island of Oahu, you may know that remote camera installations can be challenging. For more information, to get a cost quote or schedule a site assessment, contact the Verkada experts at Unified Security Partners.

Verkada Introduces New Wireless Locks: Smarter Access Control, Simplified

Verkada has expanded its powerful access control platform with the launch of new wireless locks, delivering enterprise-grade security without the need for complex wiring or hardware retrofits.

These next-generation locks bring the same reliability, intuitive management, and cloud intelligence that Verkada customers already know—now extended to interior and hard-to-wire doors.

Seamless Integration, No Cables Required

The new Verkada Wireless Locks are battery-powered and connect securely through a wireless hub to your Verkada Command platform. This means no wall cutting, no long cable runs, and minimal disruption to your facility.

Each lock communicates directly with Verkada’s cloud-based access control system, giving you the same unified visibility and control across both wired and wireless doors—all from one intuitive dashboard.

Smarter Security for Every Door

Designed for flexibility, Verkada’s wireless locks make it easy to extend cloud-based access control throughout your organization. Whether upgrading a campus, corporate office, healthcare facility, or school, you can bring more doors online—faster and with less cost.

Key Benefits:

• Easy Installation – Wireless design eliminates traditional wiring for quick deployment.

• Unified Management – Manage all doors, credentials, and users in one platform (Verkada Command).

• Mobile & Smart Credentials – Support for secure cards, fobs, and mobile unlock via the Verkada Pass app.

• Instant Lockdown & Remote Control – Lock or unlock any door, or your entire site, instantly from Command or your phone.

• Built-In Intelligence – Receive battery health alerts, real-time door status updates, and detailed audit trails automatically.

• Reliable Performance – Built to the highest commercial standards (ANSI Grade 1, IP65 rated) for durability and long-term dependability.

Expand Your Security Network Effortlessly

Wireless locks are ideal for:

• Interior doors where running cable is costly or impractical

• Multi-building sites such as campuses or corporate environments

• Renovation projects seeking a non-invasive upgrade path

• Organizations scaling security coverage across many access points

By combining Verkada’s wired controllers with wireless locks, customers can unify security across every type of door, ensuring a consistent user experience and complete visibility across their facilities.

Centralized Control with Verkada Command

Like all Verkada products, wireless locks are fully managed in Verkada Command, the secure, cloud-based platform that integrates video security, access control, intrusion detection, and environmental sensors.

Administrators can easily:

• Add or remove user access in seconds

• Set custom schedules and rules

• Monitor door status and events in real time

• Trigger site-wide lockdowns instantly

All data and settings are automatically synchronized across sites, users, and devices—no local servers or manual updates needed.

The Future of Access Control is Wireless

Verkada’s new wireless locks represent a major step toward a fully unified and flexible access control ecosystem. They empower organizations to protect more doors, streamline management, and adapt faster as needs evolve—all with the simplicity and reliability that define Verkada’s approach to modern security.

Bring every door online—securely, wirelessly, and intelligently—with Verkada’s new wireless locks. If you’re located in Honolulu or anywhere else in Hawaii, get in touch with Unified Security for more information, product quote or to request a site assessment to see if wireless locks are right for your security project.

Unlocking Smarter Security with Verkada Command: The Power of AI Analytics and Person of Interest Alerts

In today’s fast-paced world, organizations are turning to smarter, more efficient security solutions that go beyond simply recording video. Traditional surveillance systems, while useful, often fall short when it comes to proactive threat detection and streamlined management. This is where Verkada Command, the centralized cloud-based management platform from Verkada, is setting a new standard.

By combining enterprise-grade video surveillance with cutting-edge AI analytics and Person of Interest (POI) alerts, Verkada Command empowers security teams to be more proactive, responsive, and efficient.

What is Verkada Command?

Verkada Command is the secure, cloud-hosted platform that serves as the central hub for managing Verkada’s suite of physical security products. From cameras and access control to sensors and alarms, Command provides an intuitive dashboard accessible from any web browser or mobile device.

Its design focuses on simplicity, scalability, and intelligence. Instead of being reactive, organizations can use Verkada Command to gain real-time insights, automate monitoring, and respond to potential security issues before they escalate.

The Benefits of AI Analytics

At the heart of Verkada’s platform is AI-powered video analytics, which transforms how organizations use surveillance data.

Key benefits include:

• Faster Investigations
  AI analytics allow users to search across hours of footage in seconds. For example, teams can filter by attributes like clothing color, vehicle type, or even detect motion in a defined zone. This dramatically reduces the time spent manually reviewing video.

• Operational Insights
  Beyond security, analytics can provide business intelligence. Retailers can use foot traffic data to understand customer behavior, while schools and offices can monitor building usage patterns to improve safety and efficiency.

• Proactive Monitoring
  Instead of relying solely on human observation, AI continuously scans footage for relevant activity. This reduces missed events and gives teams confidence that critical moments won’t slip through the cracks.

Person of Interest (POI) Alerts

One of the most powerful tools in Verkada Command is the Person of Interest alert system. Using AI-based face recognition, organizations can:

• Create Profiles for Known Individuals
  Security teams can tag individuals of concern—such as repeat trespassers, former employees, or persons restricted from the premises—within the Command platform.

• Real-Time Notifications
  When a tagged individual is detected by any camera across the organization, Command sends immediate alerts via SMS, email, or the mobile app. This enables staff to respond quickly and appropriately.

• Improved Safety & Security
  POI alerts help prevent incidents before they happen. For example, schools can be alerted if a barred visitor enters campus, or a retail chain can be notified if a repeat shoplifter returns to a location.

Importantly, these features are designed with privacy and compliance in mind, ensuring that organizations can leverage advanced security while respecting regulations and ethical considerations.

Why Businesses in Hawaii are Adopting Verkada

The combination of cloud-based management, AI-driven analytics, and real-time alerts provides a level of efficiency and intelligence that traditional systems can’t match. Key advantages include:

• Ease of Use – Command’s clean interface requires minimal training.

• Scalability – Add new sites, cameras, or devices in minutes.

• Security – End-to-end encryption and automatic updates protect against cyber threats.

• Proactive Protection – AI and POI alerts ensure potential issues are addressed before they escalate.

Final Thoughts

Verkada Command is more than just a surveillance management tool—it’s a platform that brings together security, intelligence, and operational efficiency. With AI analytics and Person of Interest alerts, businesses and State offices and schools in Honolulu and beyond gain smarter, faster, and more proactive security capabilities that protect people, assets, and peace of mind.

As physical security continues to evolve, solutions like Verkada Command demonstrate how technology can move organizations from reactive monitoring to intelligent, predictive protection. Unified Security Partners is a trusted Verkada Hawaii resell partner that can help navigate and tailor the right solution for you along with system support and training so you and your team get the most out Verkada’s powerful AI driven technology.

Schedule a Verkada Demo and Earn a $25 Visa Gift Card

If you’re in the market to upgrade your business’ security camera, alarm, intercom or door access system, this is a great time to explore your options. Join us for a 20 minute overview of Verkada to learn more about the advantages of modern cloud hosted security that’s fully integrated in one easy to use platform. During our brief video call, we can dive into the challenges you’re facing and offer tailored solutions for you to consider.

If you are a business, school, non-profit or government agency located in Hawaii, contact us to schedule a time to discuss more. Whether you are ready to upgrade your security systems or just want to check out what’s new and innovative in the market, this introductory call will give you valuable information and insight into what’s possible. In order to earn your Visa gift card, just request a demo time with us and allow us the chance to quote your upcoming security project, without any further obligation.

Get in touch with us today to get started!

Verkada is Trusted by Schools Serving 20 Million Students

Today marks a significant milestone in our journey to protect people and places: Verkada now partners with schools and universities that collectively serve 20 million students and 2.5 million teachers and staff. This includes over 50 public, charter and private schools in the State of Hawaii. This achievement represents more than numbers – it reflects the trust that educators, administrators, and families place in our technology to create safer learning environments.

The Evolution of School Safety

The landscape of school safety has transformed dramatically over the past decade. Modern challenges – from campus violence and unauthorized access to everyday operational concerns – require solutions that are both sophisticated and simple to use. Today's education leaders are seeking technology that enhances safety without compromising the learning environment or student privacy.

Technology That Works in Real-Time

The schools we partner with are embracing AI-powered tools that enhance safety in more efficient and privacy-protecting ways. Our integrated approach combines AI-enabled cameras for enhanced situational awareness, environmental sensors that help identify issues like vaping and bullying, and intercom and guest management systems that monitor and control entry points. When seconds matter, access control tools and alarms allow administrators to initiate a lockdown via a panic button, web browser, or mobile app. 

Collaboration and connectivity are particularly crucial in educational environments. Our recent integration with Redbag enables silent, two-way communication between classrooms and emergency responders while providing real-time video access during lockdowns. This builds on our existing partnerships with popular education tools such as Clever and ClassLink, creating a comprehensive ecosystem that supports both safety and learning.

The impact of these solutions is best understood through the experiences of the educators who use them daily:

• At Mountain View Los Altos High School District, Bob Fishtrom, Director of IT Services, notes: "As a former school administrator, Verkada Intercom – paired with Guest – is one of the most powerful tools I've seen for campus safety."

• From Bath Spa University, Andy Williams, Head of Facilities and Services, emphasizes the importance of usability: "I'm certain that any member of a team could come in and find what they need in seconds, no matter their level of technical skill. Simplicity is key in the adoption of a new tool, which is what made the value of Verkada immediately clear to me and my team."

• At La Cañada Unified School District, Jamie Lee Lewsadder, Associate Superintendent of Technology Services, highlights the operational benefits: "We can prioritize active areas and monitor multiple feeds at once – entrances, exits, and hallways. Whoever is making the 911 call can quickly assess and relay real-time information to emergency dispatch."

Privacy and Trust at the Forefront

We understand that effective school safety technology must balance security with privacy and trust. That's why we prioritized building features like Live Face Blur on video feeds and configurable privacy zones that block specific areas from being recorded. Granular controls and permissions give school administrators the ability to limit access to sensitive features, helping protect both student safety and privacy.

Looking Forward

Reaching schools that collectively serve 20 million students is a milestone that reinforces our commitment to the education community. From elementary schools to universities, institutions of all sizes are finding value in technology that's easy to deploy, simple to use, and designed with both safety and privacy in mind.

As we look to the future, we remain dedicated to working alongside educators, administrators, and safety professionals to ensure that every school can be a place where students learn, educators teach, and families feel confident in their community's safety. 

To learn more about how we have helped dozens of schools in Hawaii modernize their security cameras, alarms, access control, guest check-in and door intercoms systems, get in touch to schedule a call.

The Advantages of Hybrid Cloud Security Cameras: The Best of Both Worlds

In today’s fast-evolving world of surveillance technology, hybrid cloud security cameras have emerged as a powerful solution, blending the strengths of on-premises and cloud-based systems. These innovative cameras offer businesses and homeowners a flexible, secure, and efficient way to monitor their properties. In this blog post, we’ll explore the key advantages of hybrid cloud security cameras and why they’re becoming a top choice for modern security needs.

1. Flexibility and Scalability- Hybrid cloud security cameras combine local storage with cloud connectivity, giving users the flexibility to choose how and where their footage is stored. For instance, critical footage can be stored locally for immediate access, while less urgent data can be uploaded to the cloud for long-term storage. This dual approach allows users to scale their storage needs dynamically, adapting to changing requirements without overhauling their entire system. Whether you’re a small business expanding operations or a homeowner upgrading your security setup, hybrid systems can grow with you.

2. Enhanced Reliability and Redundancy- One of the standout benefits of hybrid cloud cameras is their reliability. By storing data both locally and in the cloud, these systems ensure that footage is safe even if one storage method fails. For example, if an internet connection drops, local storage keeps recording, preventing gaps in surveillance. Conversely, if a local device is damaged or stolen, the cloud backup preserves critical footage. This redundancy provides peace of mind, ensuring that your security data is always accessible.

3. Cost-Effective Storage Solutions- Hybrid systems offer a cost-efficient approach to video storage. Local storage eliminates the need for constant cloud subscriptions, which can be expensive for high-resolution or continuous recording. Meanwhile, the cloud offers affordable long-term storage for archived footage, reducing the need for costly on-site hardware upgrades. Users can balance their budget by prioritizing local storage for immediate needs and leveraging the cloud for extended retention, optimizing costs without compromising security.

4. Remote Access and Management- With hybrid cloud cameras, you can access live or recorded footage from anywhere using a smartphone, tablet, or computer. The cloud component enables seamless remote monitoring, allowing users to check in on their property in real-time, receive alerts, or review footage on the go. This is particularly valuable for businesses with multiple locations or homeowners who travel frequently. The ability to manage settings and view footage remotely adds convenience and ensures you’re always in control.

5. Improved Security and Data Protection- Hybrid cloud cameras offer robust security features to protect your data. Local storage keeps sensitive footage on-site, reducing the risk of unauthorized access through internet vulnerabilities. Meanwhile, reputable cloud providers use encryption and secure protocols to safeguard data in transit and at rest. This dual-layer approach minimizes risks associated with single-point failures, making hybrid systems a secure choice for protecting both physical and digital assets.

6. Seamless Integration with Existing Systems- For organizations or individuals with existing on-premises security infrastructure, hybrid cloud cameras provide a smooth transition to modern technology. They integrate easily with legacy systems, allowing users to upgrade their surveillance capabilities without replacing costly hardware. This compatibility makes hybrid solutions an attractive option for those looking to modernize their security setup while leveraging existing investments.

7. Optimized Bandwidth Usage- Hybrid systems intelligently manage bandwidth by allowing users to prioritize local recording during peak usage times and upload to the cloud during off-hours. This reduces strain on internet connections, ensuring smooth performance for other online activities. For businesses with limited bandwidth or rural homeowners with slower internet, this feature is a game-changer, maintaining high-quality surveillance without compromising network performance.

8. Advanced Analytics and AI Integration- Many hybrid cloud security cameras such as Verkada, come equipped with advanced analytics powered by cloud-based AI. Features like motion detection, facial recognition, and anomaly detection are processed in the cloud, leveraging powerful computing resources without taxing local hardware. This allows for smarter, more proactive security measures, such as real-time alerts for suspicious activity or automated tagging of important footage, enhancing overall system efficiency.

Hybrid cloud security cameras like Verkada, offer a versatile, reliable, and cost-effective solution for modern surveillance needs. By combining the strengths of local and cloud storage, they provide flexibility, redundancy, and enhanced security while keeping costs manageable. Whether you’re securing a home, a small business, or a large enterprise, hybrid systems deliver the best of both worlds, ensuring peace of mind in an increasingly connected world.

Ready to upgrade your security? Consider hybrid cloud cameras for a future-proof solution that adapts to your needs while keeping your data safe and accessible.

Verkada Product Release- Enhanced Cutting Edge Tools

At Unified Security Partners, we’re focused on providing modern building security solutions to businesses and organizations across a number of industries. To ensure we always bring our clients the most cutting-edge solutions, we pay close attention to companies driving innovation. Verkada’s latest product release stands out as one of its most powerful yet, offering smarter surveillance, streamlined access control, intelligent alarm automation, and enhanced visitor management— let’s dive right in.

CY53-E Multisensor Camera: Dual Coverage with One Installation Point

In our opinion, the highlight of this release is the CY53-E Multisensor camera: a two-lens camera that delivers bidirectional coverage from a single mounting point. This design is ideal for maximizing visibility in high-traffic areas such as hallways, corners, and intersections, where broad-yet-efficient surveillance is essential. By combining wide-angle coverage with a simplified installation process, it reduces hardware needs, lowers licensing costs and saves on deployment time.

Verkada CY53-E Multisensor Camera

Stronger, Smarter Access Control

Verkada’s access control system now includes deeper filtering and configuration tools. Admins can manage users more precisely with over 20 filterable attributes and configure multiple doors at once with new bulk-editing capabilities. The updated Verkada Pass app, now available on Android and iOS, prioritizes commonly used doors at the top of the interface. 

Alarms That Respond Proactively

With the new update, alarms are more intelligent and more responsive. Organizations with Verkada Access Control can now set alarms for events like a door being forced or held open without the need for extra sensors or wiring, and PTZ cameras can be configured to trigger an alarm when a person is detected in the frame. Verkada has also introduced the BZ32 Siren Strobe, usable both indoors and outdoors with wired or wireless setups; and users can trigger automated messages of an uploaded recording, or use AI text-to-speech to deliver messages in a human-like voice with BZ11 horn speakers. Real-time system health alerts will notify teams about backup power failures, offline devices, or wiring issues to boost reliability and reduce manual checks, while alarm system changes will be captured in Command audit logs to provide admins with a digital trail of user actions. All wireless hub devices (BP52, BE32, BK22, WH52, and WH32 in hub mode) now support up to 160 wireless sensors.

Intercom is also receiving a few updates: license plates detected during intercom calls will now be integrated into the call receiving and call history experience, and users will be able to route intercom directly to local 911 providers. Firmware updates will no longer be pushed automatically, instead allowing organizations to schedule them during a specific time window. 

Mission-Ready AI Surveillance

Verkada’s video surveillance platform has grown significantly more powerful with AI upgrades. Teams can now build Smart Lists to monitor unauthorized individuals in sensitive areas, while custom People Lists allow role-based access with distinct viewing and managing permissions. The platform is also more secure and compliant, with FIPS-validated hardware, support for 802.1x authentication, and detailed privacy grid settings. It also offers support for Non-Verkada PTZ controls, like an Xbox controller or joystick, or controls within Command to manipulate non-Verkada PTZ cameras.

Command Platform: Simplified Control at Scale

Verkada’s Command platform has been redesigned for greater usability and speed. Navigation is now more intuitive, settings are easier to manage, and audit logs extend up to 90 days for better traceability. Alerts from Guest, Alarms, and Helix are now centralized in a single inbox, and SMS delivery has been upgraded with Twilio integration for enhanced reliability throughout North America ensuring operators are always in the loop.

Next-Level Visitor Management and Connectivity

The Guest platform has undergone several updates to streamline check-in and enhance compliance. Visitors can now be granted access via QR codes or unique entry codes, and enhanced identity verification better-validates authenticity by scanning both sides of a US-issued ID. PowerSchool integration (currently in beta) will enable automated two-way attendance data syncing for schools. Guest also now allows volunteers to upload documents and certifications during check-in, with customizable expiration controls for frequent visitors ensuring they are prompted to regularly update their personal information; and the Brother QL-820NWB label printer now supports two-tone badge printing, adding a polished touch to check-ins.

To deliver better uptime and security across large-scale deployments the GC31 and GC31-E Cellular Gateways are now supported in Command organizations on AWS GovCloud, while GW31-E Wi-Fi gateways can be connected to hidden network SSIDs, and organizations that regularly change Wi-Fi passwords can add new passwords in advance on their GW31-E gateways to prevent downtime.

Smarter Tools for Safer Spaces

Verkada’s May 2025 release isn’t just a set of new features—it’s a strategic leap forward in cloud-based physical security. Every update is designed to help organizations scale securely, streamline operations, and respond faster to threats. Here at Unified Security Partners, we can’t wait to integrate these capabilities into our clients’ smart security ecosystems, ensuring they stay ahead of evolving risks. Ready to upgrade your security strategy with cutting-edge solutions? Reach out today to schedule a consultation

Powerful Intrusion Deterrence

Fresh new release from Verkada’s blog:

Verkada Alarms gives organizations the ability to protect their people and property from immediate threats. In some cases that means automatically dispatching the police to respond to criminal activity. Unfortunately, with law enforcement resources stretched thin, it’s becoming easier for criminals to commit a crime and escape before the police can arrive. In many cases, an organization’s best response is deterrence measures that scare off intruders before they can do damage. While devices like sirens and strobe lights can be helpful, nothing is as effective as a live human voice.

BZ11 Horn Speaker for proactive security with live talk down functionality

Today, we’re excited to launch the BZ11 Horn Speaker, a powerful device that allows both users and professional monitoring agents to talk down to intruders from nearly anywhere via Verkada’s Command dashboard or mobile app.

Simple Setup and Configuration

The BZ11 speaker can be paired with one or more cameras in Command with a single click - no complex integrations or configurations required. A single speaker can be paired with multiple cameras in a given location, and a single camera can be tied to multiple speakers for broader coverage.

One-Click User Talk Down

If a user sees something suspicious on camera, they can simply click the talk icon on that camera feed and talk down through the associated speaker(s). If an organization does not have any cameras associated with a speaker, users can also talk down from the Devices page in Command. The BZ11 also has an integrated microphone to enable two-way communication. User talk down is available to all Verkada camera customers who purchase the BZ11, and does not require an LIC-BA Alarm License.

24/7 Coverage with Monitoring Agent Talk Down

Many organizations, however, don’t have dedicated staff watching camera feeds around the clock, and that’s where professional monitoring agents come in. If an alarm is triggered, a live agent will review the video footage and can talk down through the BZ11. Additional alarm responses, like requesting police dispatch, can follow.

Additionally, organizations can configure text-to-speech or pre-recorded messages to play through the speaker as an automated response if an alarm is triggered. Monitoring agent talk down and automated messages are available with the addition of an alarm license.

For more information about Verkada Alarms 24/7 monitoring with live talk-down, please contact us or call one of our expert at Cetra Secure to discuss in more detail. (808) 419-7122

Security Advantages of Hybrid Cloud Cameras

Hybrid cloud security cameras offer a number of security advantages over traditional security cameras. The main advantage of a hybrid cloud security camera system is that it combines the benefits of on-premises security cameras with the benefits of cloud-based security cameras. This creates a more robust and secure system that can better protect against potential threats.

1. Data security: With a hybrid cloud security camera system, the video footage is recorded both locally and in the cloud. This provides an added layer of security as the footage is stored in multiple locations, making it more difficult for potential attackers to access or destroy.

2. Remote access and monitoring: With a hybrid cloud security camera system, authorized personnel can view live video footage and access recorded footage from any location with an internet connection. This allows for more efficient monitoring and response to security incidents.

3. Scalability: Hybrid cloud security camera systems can be easily scaled to meet the changing needs of a business. This allows for the addition of new cameras or the expansion of the system to cover new areas without the need for significant capital investment.

4. Automatic updates: Cloud-based security cameras are regularly updated with the latest security features and patches. This ensures that the system stays up-to-date with the latest security standards and is better equipped to detect and respond to potential threats.

5. Cost-effective: Hybrid cloud security camera systems can be more cost-effective than traditional security camera systems as it reduces the need for expensive on-premises storage and hardware.

Verkada hybrid cloud security cameras offer a great solution for businesses looking to improve their security while also reducing cost and increasing flexibility. The combination of on-premises and cloud-based storage, remote access, and automatic updates provide a more secure and effective security camera solution. Contact us today for a live demo and to request your 30-day free trial camera to test drive.