Reflections of My 28th ISC West Experience

As the security industry's pinnacle event, ISC West continues to draw seasoned professionals, eager newcomers and curious innovators. Among them stands a figure whose presence has become synonymous with both the event and the industry's evolution—the veteran editor, now embarks on year 28 to the heart of innovation and security.

Stepping onto the bustling show floor, this editor carries with him not just a badge, but decades of memories, insights and a deep-rooted understanding of the industry's ebbs and flows. The journey began in an era where security meant physical barriers and guard patrols, but has since morphed into a landscape where cutting-edge technology intertwines seamlessly with human vigilance.

With each passing year, I have witnessed the transformative power of innovation, from the early days of analog surveillance cameras to the emergence of AI-driven analytics and IoT integration. ISC West, in its essence, has been a canvas upon which this evolution unfolds year after year. From the booths of industry giants to the modest stalls of startups, every corner tells a story of progress, adaptation and resilience—a narrative I have been privileged to witness firsthand.

Yet, amidst the whirlwind of innovation, my keen eye remains fixed on a singular pursuit: the quest for meaningful advancements that truly enhance security, rather than merely adding to the noise. This is not a journey of novelty for novelty's sake, but a relentless search for solutions that address the real-world challenges faced by globetrotting security professionals.

Beyond the glitz and glamour of product launches and flashy displays, I seek out the quiet conversations, the intimate demonstrations and the candid exchanges that often hold the key to true innovation. It is in these moments that the essence of ISC West truly shines—the convergence of minds, ideas and experiences, all united in a shared mission to safeguard lives, assets and communities.

As we all navigate through the labyrinth of booths and exhibits, none of us are a mere observer, but as a custodian of the industry's legacy. Each encounter, each handshake and each product demonstration adds another layer to the vast repository of knowledge—a knowledge born not just of technical expertise, but of a genuine passion for the field and its potential to shape a safer, more secure world.

And so, as the curtains fall on another ISC West, personal reflections extend far beyond the confines of the convention center. For all, it is not simply an event, but a testament to the industry's enduring spirit of innovation, collaboration and

progress. With 28 years under my belt, I stand as a living embodiment of that spirit—a beacon of wisdom, insight and unwavering dedication to the cause of security in an ever-changing world.

About the Author

Ralph C. Jensen is the Publisher/Editor in chief of Security Today magazine.

Featured

  • AI to Help Resolve Non-Emergency Calls Across Utah and Decrease 911 Caller Wait Times

    The Utah Communications Authority (UCA), which oversees the state’s next generation 911 technology services, recently announced that public safety answering points (PSAPs) throughout the state plan to implement Motorola Solutions’ Virtual Response technology to automate the receipt and resolution of 10-digit non-emergency line calls in Utah with the help of AI. Read Now

  • Report: 2025 Video Surveillance Market Set to Grow After Small Decline in 2024

    Novaira Insights has unveiled its latest report, “World Market for Video Surveillance Hardware and Software – 2025 Edition.” The research indicates that the global market for video surveillance hardware and software experienced a slight decline of 0.3% in 2024. This performance fell short of previous forecasts, primarily due to a significant decrease of 7.8% in the Chinese market. Conversely, the rest of the world saw a growth of 4.9%. The global market for video surveillance equipment was estimated to be worth $25.0 billion in 2024. Read Now

  • Report Reveals Local Governments Face Surge in Ransomware Attacks with Minimal Resources

    KnowBe4, the cybersecurity platform that comprehensively addresses human risk management, recently released new research highlighting the critical cybersecurity challenges facing state, local, tribal, and territorial (SLTT) governments. The report details how government organizations have become prime targets for cybercriminals while simultaneously facing severe resource constraints. Read Now

  • Video Surveillance Trends to Watch

    With more organizations adding newer capabilities to their surveillance systems, it’s always important to remember the “basics” of system configuration and deployment, as well as the topline benefits of continually emerging technologies like AI and the cloud. Read Now

  • New Report Reveals Top Trends Transforming Access Controller Technology

    Mercury Security, a provider in access control hardware and open platform solutions, has published its Trends in Access Controllers Report, based on a survey of over 450 security professionals across North America and Europe. The findings highlight the controller’s vital role in a physical access control system (PACS), where the device not only enforces access policies but also connects with readers to verify user credentials—ranging from ID badges to biometrics and mobile identities. With 72% of respondents identifying the controller as a critical or important factor in PACS design, the report underscores how the choice of controller platform has become a strategic decision for today’s security leaders. Read Now

New Products

  • Compact IP Video Intercom

    Viking’s X-205 Series of intercoms provide HD IP video and two-way voice communication - all wrapped up in an attractive compact chassis.

  • QCS7230 System-on-Chip (SoC)

    QCS7230 System-on-Chip (SoC)

    The latest Qualcomm® Vision Intelligence Platform offers next-generation smart camera IoT solutions to improve safety and security across enterprises, cities and spaces. The Vision Intelligence Platform was expanded in March 2022 with the introduction of the QCS7230 System-on-Chip (SoC), which delivers superior artificial intelligence (AI) inferencing at the edge.

  • 4K Video Decoder

    3xLOGIC’s VH-DECODER-4K is perfect for use in organizations of all sizes in diverse vertical sectors such as retail, leisure and hospitality, education and commercial premises.