Physical Security Essentials (PSE) is one-day in-class technical training providing a comprehensive introduction to modern video surveillance systems using UniFi Protect. Students will learn the fundamentals of camera technology, image quality, camera selection, system design, access control integration, AI-powered detections, and best practices for deploying physical security solutions in commercial and small-business environments. Through demonstrations and practical labs, participants will gain the skills needed to design, install, configure, and maintain a complete physical security solution.
Course Outline
Module 1 – Physical Security Fundamentals
- Introduction to Physical Security
- Components of a Security System
- Security Cameras vs. Access Control
- Understanding Threat Detection
- UniFi Protect Overview
Module 2 – How Security Cameras Work
- Camera Internal Components
- Lens Assemblies
- CMOS Sensors
- Processors
- Network Interfaces
- How Cameras Create Images
- Bayer Filters and Color Processing
- Sensor Size and Low-Light Performance
- Camera Resolution and Pixel Density Fundamentals
Module 3 – Image Quality and Scene Design
- Understanding Pixel Density
- IEC/EN 62676 Surveillance Standards
- Detection, Discern, Perceive, Characterize, and Validate Requirements
- Calculating Effective Viewing Distances
- Camera Placement Best Practices
- Using CCTV Lens Calculators
- Optical Zoom vs. Digital Zoom
Module 4 – Low-Light and Night Vision Technologies
- Visible Light vs. Infrared Light
- IR Cut Filters
- Infrared Illumination
- 850nm vs. 940nm IR
- Night Vision Limitations
- Thermal Imaging Fundamentals
- Environmental Considerations (Fog, Smoke, Rain)
Module 5 – Camera Selection and Deployment
- Motion Detection Fundamentals
- AI Detection Technologies
- People Detection
- Vehicle Detection
- Animal Detection
- Facial Recognition Concepts
- License Plate Recognition (LPR)
- Reducing False Positives
- Selecting the Right Camera for the Application
Module 6 – Camera Form Factors and Installation
- Bullet Cameras
- Dome Cameras
- Turret Cameras
- PTZ Cameras
- 360° Cameras
- Indoor vs. Outdoor Deployments
- IP and IK Ratings
- Mounting Considerations
- Cabling and PoE Requirements
Module 7 – UniFi Protect Platform
- UniFi Protect Architecture
- Adopting Cameras
- Recording Modes
- Storage and Retention Planning
- User Accounts and Permissions
- Alerts and Notifications
- Live View and Remote Access
- Mobile Application Features
Module 8 – AI and Smart Security Features
- Smart Detections
- Facial Recognition
- License Plate Recognition
- Object Tracking
- Event Review
- Search and Analytics
- Automation Workflows
Module 9 – Access Control and Sensor Integration
- Introduction to UniFi Access
- Door Controllers and Readers
- Sensors and Alarms
- Door Position Monitoring
- Motion and Environmental Sensors
- Security Workflow Integration
Module 10 – Security System Design
- Conducting Site Surveys
- Determining Coverage Requirements
- Camera Placement Strategies
- Entrance and Perimeter Monitoring
- Parking Lot and Exterior Coverage
- Storage Sizing
- Network Requirements
- Scalability Considerations
Module 11 – Troubleshooting and Maintenance
- Common Installation Issues
- Network Connectivity Problems
- Video Quality Troubleshooting
- Storage and Recording Issues
- Firmware Updates
- System Health Monitoring
- Maintenance Best Practices
Hands-On Labs
- Lab 1: Camera Adoption and Setup
- Lab 2: Sensor and Lens Calculator Exercises
- Lab 3: Pixel Density Calculations
- Lab 4: Camera Placement Design
- Lab 5: Night Vision Testing
- Lab 6: AI Detection Configuration
- Lab 7: UniFi Protect Recording and Alerts
- Lab 8: Physical Security Site Design Project
Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
- Explain how modern security cameras capture and process images.
- Evaluate camera specifications and select appropriate hardware.
- Design surveillance systems using industry pixel-density standards.
- Configure and manage UniFi Protect deployments.
- Implement AI-based detection and alerting.
- Integrate cameras, sensors, and access control systems.
- Troubleshoot common physical security issues.
- Design a complete physical security solution for real-world environments.
The PSE course includes downloadable lab books, guided exercises, assessments, and Pearson-Credly certification.
All wifi‑U trainings are Credly by Pearson certified, ensuring that every student receives an industry‑recognized digital credential upon successful completion. These badges validate the skills gained in each course and can be easily shared on LinkedIn, resumes, and professional portfolios.
Ubiquiti® and UniFi® are registered trademarks of Ubiquiti Inc. This course is independently produced and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by Ubiquiti Inc.