12-02-2026
In modern organisations, audiovisual technology is no longer isolated hardware in meeting rooms or lecture theatres. AV systems are networked, software driven and interconnected with core business technologies. This brings new capabilities, but also new responsibilities. For firms that care about safeguarding data and operations, the integration of AV network security with broader IT security strategies is essential.
At Lucid we design and deliver audiovisual systems that are easy to use, flexible and powerful. However, the increasing convergence of AV and IT means that AV devices and infrastructure are now part of the corporate network environment. Without proper safeguards, this can create vulnerabilities that threaten both security and business continuity.
The Changing Role of AV in Connected Environments
Traditionally, audiovisual technology was seen as separate from critical networks. Projectors, displays, control processors and conferencing hardware were often on standalone circuits or simple local networks. That is often no longer the case. AV devices now integrate with scheduling platforms, content sharing applications, room controls and unified communications. Many systems use standard network protocols, communicate with cloud services and connect to corporate accounts.
Because of this, AV devices and control systems can become gateways into broader IT infrastructure if they are left unsecured. This risk is especially pertinent for organisations handling sensitive data, regulated information or proprietary workflows.
Why AV Network Security Matters
AV network security is about ensuring that AV devices and traffic do not introduce risks to the wider IT environment. If unmanaged, AV endpoints can be:
- Unpatched and running outdated software.
- Exposed to unauthorised access.
- On networks without segmentation.
- Used as vectors to pivot deeper into business systems.
For example, an unsecured AV control panel with default credentials could be exploited, allowing an attacker to access AV network services, intercept traffic or exploit vulnerabilities in connected systems. Even devices that appear benign, such as touch panels or streaming encoders, can be leveraged if they are on the same network as critical services.
Integrating AV with IT Security Best Practice
To protect both AV and business systems, AV network security should follow the same rigorous principles that govern broader IT security strategies. These include:
- Network Segmentation – place AV infrastructure on its own VLAN or segregated network so that it cannot freely communicate with core systems.
- Strong Authentication – avoid default passwords and enforce authenticated access.
- Regular Patching and Updates – keep firmware and software up to date.
- Monitoring and Logging – track AV device behaviour and watch for anomalies.
- Asset Management – know what devices are on the network and ensure they are compliant with security policies.
At Lucid, we work closely with IT teams to understand policies and integrate AV systems appropriately. This collaboration ensures that audiovisual installations not only meet performance and design goals, but also conform to the organisation’s wider security protocol.
The Benefits of Integration
When AV network security and IT security are aligned, organisations see multiple benefits:
- Reduced risk of unauthorised access or data compromise.
- Stronger compliance with internal and external governance standards.
- More predictable performance and fewer unplanned outages.
- Easier management and monitoring of connected systems.
Integrating AV and IT security is no longer optional. It is a critical part of delivering robust, reliable audiovisual systems that support collaboration without creating new risks.
If you would like to review your audiovisual security posture or explore how Lucid can help with secure AV design and integration, please get in touch.
