Domain 1 · 1.2 Fundamental Security Concepts
1.2.6 Physical Security
Bollards, vestibules, fencing, surveillance, sensors.
16 min
Physical security = controls that protect people, devices, and facilities from physical threats.
Perimeter & entry controls
- Bollards → concrete/metal posts → block vehicle ramming
- Access Control Vestibule (Mantrap) → two interlocked doors → prevents tailgating / piggybacking
- Fencing → perimeter barrier → restricts entry and delays attackers
- Lighting → reduces hiding spots, improves camera footage
Monitoring & response
- Video Surveillance (CCTV) → detection + evidence (does NOT physically stop)
- Security Guards → human oversight → preventive + detective + deterrent
- Access Badges (RFID / smart cards) → electronic entry, logged, revocable
Sensors
- Infrared (IR) → detects body heat → motion detectors
- Pressure → detects weight on a mat / floor
- Microwave → emits microwaves, analyzes reflection → motion in an area
- Ultrasonic → high-frequency sound waves, measures echo
Quick exam recall
- Bollards → vehicle
- Mantrap → tailgating
- Fencing → perimeter
- CCTV → monitoring & evidence
- Guard → human response
- Badge → electronic entry
- Lighting → visibility & deterrence
- IR → heat | Pressure → weight | Microwave → radio waves | Ultrasonic → sound waves