5 Objectives of Perimeter Security Design

Perimeter security design has come a long way from installing tall fences with barbed wire. While height and sharp objects might slow a lazy intruder down, you need more than that to beat determined, intelligent criminals armed with technology. If your property requires real protection, you need cutting-edge perimeter alarm systems that are tailored to your needs.

When it comes to designing the perfect perimeter fence alarm, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. That’s why we work with our clients to design custom perimeter fence security systems; we consider perimeter size, potential threats, environment, budget, space constraints, and more. Once we have all of the details about the project, it comes down to the design of the system and the five objectives that all security professionals focus on, often called the “5 Ds” — Deter, Detect, Deny, Delay and Defend.

The 5 Ds of Perimeter Fence Security

The idea behind the 5 Ds of perimeter security design is that each part works as a layer to protect your assets, where the layers work together to either stop the intruder or give you time to respond effectively.

1. Deter

Those stand-alone fences with barbed wire mentioned earlier are examples of deterrents, and are meant to make someone think twice about trespassing. Deterrents tend to be low-cost visuals such as a sign depicting a perimeter fence alarm system, lights or visible cameras. Tall fences around the property also say “stay out” with their sheer presence.

2. Detect

Detection is the next layer of a good perimeter fence security system, meant to alert you of any breaches to the property. Cameras are helpful to record key areas of the property, but you can’t be watching every location at all times. This is where a perimeter fence security system with motion detectors is essential. When a potential threat is detected, you can be alerted instantly.

3. Deny

The “deny” layer focuses on actual points of entry to the property. Monitored or manned security gates, swipe card systems, biometric scanning and keypad entry codes are all ways to permit only those you want on premises.

4. Delay

For the ultimate level of perimeter security, you want to delay the approach to your property, as well as movement within it. For the approach, this could include speed bumps or parking gates. Double-fence systems with sensors between them can also slow down intruders if they breach the first layer of defense, as will loud alarms drawing attention to their location.

5. Defend

Once your perimeter alarm system has been tripped and the intruder located, it becomes time to defend your assets and property. This usually is in the form of property security personnel or law enforcement. Ideally, your security system is integrated well enough that they can locate the intruder swiftly and accurately.

The Top 3 Perimeter Fence Security Options

Perimeter fence security is essential if you want to stop intruders before they have a chance to enter your property, rather than deal with them once they’ve breached it. The following systems are used at prisons, airports, military bases, large compounds and small businesses alike. They are reliable, customizable, and are designed to limit false alarms. 

1. Hydra

This small, wireless system is simple yet flexible enough for the most unique perimeter fence alarm security needs. It can be integrated with your preferred alarm system, including existing alarm panels, and can be placed on objects as well as fences. The Hydra is also scalable, meaning the system can grow with your perimeter at an affordable cost. 

2. Infinity 2020

The Infinity 2020 is used in the highest-security locations because it offers high detection with low false alarm rates. This high-tech system will show you exactly where on the property the alert is coming from, and it can be installed on a variety of fences. The system records all movements, which can then be exported for security and incident reviews. 

3. Digital Microwaves

For wide open and hard-to-secure places like airports, digital microwaves offer a high-tech and flexible solution. It uses “fuzzy logic” and event history to determine if an alarm is required, and all incidents are time-stamped should they need to be reviewed later. Digital microwaves are completely safe, and they won’t disrupt military or aviation signals. 

At ISC, the only thing we do is perimeter security design and installation, and we take your needs seriously. Connect with us today to discuss your security needs, special considerations, and concerns, and learn how we can help you achieve peace of mind and protect your valuable assets.