Network Security for AV Systems: The Enterprise Risk Often Overlooked

As AV systems gradually shift to running on IP platforms — AV over IP for video, Dante for audio, IP cameras, cloud-connected meeting room controllers — one commonly overlooked consequence is this: every AV device is now also a connection point into the enterprise network, and can become an attack target.

Why AV devices become a security risk

Unlike computers or servers, which are closely monitored by IT teams, AV devices (cameras, controllers, Digital Signage displays) are typically configured once and then "left alone" for years, rarely updated with firmware or reviewed for security on a regular basis — making them a weak link in the overall network defense system.

The risk of lateral movement within the network

A compromised AV device is not just a risk to itself — if not properly isolated, attackers can use that device as a springboard to move laterally to other critical systems within the same enterprise network, from data servers to building management systems.

Principles for designing a secure AV network

Three fundamental principles should be applied: separate VLANs dedicated to AV devices, not sharing network segments with sensitive enterprise data; changing vendor default passwords on all devices (a common but often overlooked vulnerability); and updating firmware regularly to patch security vulnerabilities that manufacturers have announced fixes for.

Security is not a one-time task

Contrary to the "install it and forget it" mindset, networked AV systems need to be included in the enterprise's regular security monitoring processes — just like any other IT device, they should not be treated as an exception simply because they belong to the "audiovisual system."

AZ Technologies designs AV over IP systems that adhere to network segmentation and security principles right from the deployment stage, working with clients' IT teams to ensure the AV system does not become a weak point in the overall network infrastructure.