Is Your AV System a Security Risk? What IT and Facilities Teams Should Know

When businesses think about cybersecurity, they often focus on firewalls, antivirus software, and protecting sensitive data in the cloud. But many overlook a major vulnerability hiding in plain sight: their AV systems. From wireless screen sharing to video conferencing platforms, modern AV tools are deeply connected to your network. That makes them a potential entry point for security threats if not designed, installed, and managed correctly. At i.e.Smart Systems, we work closely with both IT and facilities teams to ensure AV systems aren’t just functional, but secure from the start.

Where AV Systems Introduce Security Vulnerabilities

Most AV technology today connects directly to the network. Devices like touch-enabled displays, webcams, wireless presentation tools, microphones, and control systems are no longer isolated. They rely on IP-based connectivity, cloud services, and remote access to function. While that improves flexibility, it also opens the door to cybersecurity risks if the systems aren’t protected properly. Unsecured ports, outdated firmware, and default admin credentials are just a few ways attackers can gain access.

Many employees don’t even realize their AV systems fall under IT’s responsibility until something breaks or a risk is flagged. In some cases, AV devices are added to the network without IT’s knowledge. That creates blind spots in monitoring and threat detection. According to IBM’s 2025 Cost of a Data Breach Report, it now takes an average of 241 days to identify and contain a breach — a timeline that gives attackers more than enough opportunity to move through unsecured systems unnoticed.

How to Strengthen AV Security Without Compromising Performance

Fortunately, there are clear steps businesses can take to protect their AV infrastructure. First, AV equipment should be segmented from the main network when possible. VLANs and firewalls can limit access and reduce the chance of a breach spreading across systems. All devices should be regularly updated with security patches and monitored like any other endpoint. Credentials should be changed from factory defaults, and access to AV control panels should be role-based.

Wireless collaboration tools and conferencing platforms should also be reviewed for security settings. That includes encryption, password protection, remote access permissions, and how content is shared or recorded. It’s also important to document every AV device on the network and make sure it’s included in the organization’s cybersecurity plan. When IT and facilities work together from the start of a project, it’s much easier to build systems that meet both operational and security requirements.

How i.e.Smart Systems Delivers Secure AV Integration

At i.e.Smart Systems, we don’t treat AV as a standalone system. We design it to be part of your larger network and security strategy. From AV-over-IP design to unified communications platforms, our team ensures every component is secure, accessible, and aligned with your IT protocols. We work with your internal teams to assess current infrastructure, close security gaps, and build new systems with secure configurations in place.

We also support clients in integrating physical security — like access control and room scheduling — into AV environments, ensuring that only the right people have access to sensitive spaces and technology. Our goal is to create collaborative workspaces that don’t compromise your security. With every project, we focus on performance, usability, and protection, so your team can meet and collaborate without worrying about exposure.

If your AV systems are overdue for a security review, or you’re planning new upgrades, talk to us. We’ll help you get ahead of the risks and make sure your technology is working for you — not against you.

i.e.Smart Systems is a Houston, TX based technology integration partner that specializes in design and installation of audio/visual technology and structured cabling. For more than three decades, our team of in-house experts has partnered with business owners, architectural firms, general contractors, construction managers, real estate developers, and designers in the Houston market, to deliver reliable, scalable solutions that align with their unique goals.