With the rise of networked audiovisual (AV) systems that integrate with other systems and transmit data over the internet, security has become a major concern in AV system design and implementation. Ignoring security can leave these systems vulnerable to cyber threats like hacking, malware, and unauthorized access. This blog post discusses key security considerations that AV professionals need to keep in mind from the initial design phase through ongoing system management and maintenance.

Design Phase Considerations

The initial design phase is when many important security decisions are made that will impact the overall security posture of the AV system. Here are some factors to evaluate at this stage:

Network Segmentation
One of the most impactful steps is to properly segment the AV network from other systems on the local network or wider corporate network. Isolating AV devices and restricting their network access reduces exposure to threats from other parts of the network in the event of a compromise. Consider implementing VLANs, firewall rules, and separate subnets.

Access Controls
Tight access controls help restrict which devices and users can connect and interact with AV devices. Multi-factor authentication, individual accounts with limited privileges, and encrypted communications are recommended best practices. Avoid using universal "admin" accounts that could provide too much access if compromised.

Updating and Patching
Plan for ongoing security updates to AV devices. Prioritize products that receive long-term support from manufacturers with active patching programs. Budget for an ongoing update and patch deployment process to promptly address vulnerabilities as they emerge.

Encryption in Transit
Sensitive AV content and control communications should be encrypted in transit. Consider protocols like HTTPS, SSL/TLS, AES, and password protection on removable media. Encryption prevents snooping and manipulation of AV traffic on the network.

Endpoint Security
Include endpoint protection on networked AV devices using antivirus, intrusion prevention, and other host-based security controls. Monitors, touchpanels and other endpoints should not become unprotected entry points for malware into the AV system.

Disaster Recovery
Incorporate security considerations into disaster recovery, backup, and restoration plans and procedures. Address authentication, access control and encryption requirements needed during a failover or outage situation when systems may be temporarily unprotected or accessible over public networks.

With these early design decisions, a security-centric foundation can be established prior to implementation that reduces risk throughout the lifecycle. Of course, security must continue to be evaluated and enhanced over time as well.

Implementation Phase

During installation and configuration, key security tasks include:

Secure Configuration
Follow secure deployment guides and harden all devices by disabling unnecessary services, ports, and default or backdoor accounts. Apply all available configuration security patches prior to connecting devices to production networks.

Password Management
Unique, complex passwords should be used on all accounts and preferably stored and managed securely using a password manager instead of written down. Multi-factor authentication brings an extra layer of access control if supported.

Network Architecture
Physically implement the planned network segmentation design using appropriate switches, routers, firewalls and ACLs/firewall rules. Isolate AV traffic, manage encryption in transit, and enforce necessary access controls between network zones.

Device Access
Restrict physical access to AV devices, especially controllers and key endpoints. Lock down accessible ports, and be aware of remote access methods like KVM-over-IP that may bypass on-site security if not properly configured.

Change Management
Establish processes for authorized change and configuration management ensuring all updates are properly tested, documented and audited. Track all changes to the AV system baseline for incident response and forensic analysis if needed.

Documentation
Record comprehensive as-built documentation of the implemented AV system baseline including network diagrams, device configurations, account credentials and access controls in use. Distribute documentation securely as needed to support ongoing management.

Ongoing Management and Monitoring

Even with thorough upfront security, ongoing vigilance is required:

Patch Management
Implement regular patching of all AV devices based on schedules from manufacturers. Address vulnerabilities in a timely manner through controlled, tested deployments to avoid exploitation.

Device Monitoring
Monitor AV devices for anomalous behavior potentially indicating malware, unauthorized access, or configuration changes. Log connections, logins, configuration updates etc. centrally for analysis and alerting on deviations from the security baseline.

Vulnerability Scanning
Regularly scan the AV network/endpoints using a professional vulnerability scanner to discover security weaknesses, misconfigurations, outdated software etc. that need remediation before being exploited maliciously.

Penetration Testing
Conduct routine internal and third-party security audits/pentests to evaluate control effectiveness from an attacker’s perspective. Address any issues uncovered and tighten policies/procedures as a result of testing.

User Education
Develop an ongoing end user security awareness program covering policy, secure use of AV devices, identifying social engineering risks and procedures to follow for any security incidents observed.

Incident Response
Create an incident response plan for suspected or confirmed security breaches of AV systems with defined roles, procedures, escalation paths, and prerequisites for restoration of normal operations. Test the plan regularly with simulated incidents.

Taking a "defense in depth" approach where multiple layers of security controls are implemented and enforced throughout the AV system lifecycle is key to enhancing protection while balancing access and functionality needs. Regular monitoring and adaptation are vital for sustained security of these increasingly connected systems.

Conclusion

With proper consideration given to security best practices during design, implementation and ongoing management, networked audiovisual systems can deliver value securely without compromising functionality or user experience. Threats to AV environments continue evolving rapidly, so maintaining vigilance and building security expertise in-house or via trusted vendors will help keep pace with emerging risks. Taking a proactive, risk-based approach secures these systems effectively without undue cost or burden.

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