For years, many AV installers focused mainly on signal quality, cable distance, resolution, audio format support, control, and system reliability. If the display turned on, the audio worked, and the source switched properly, the job was considered successful.

In 2026, that is no longer enough.

Modern AV systems are increasingly connected to the network. AV-over-IP systems, IP cameras, network video recorders, Dante audio, room controllers, cloud-managed devices, wireless presentation systems, video walls, and remote monitoring tools all rely on IP infrastructure. That means AV devices are no longer isolated hardware. They are part of the customer’s larger technology environment.

For installers and integrators, this creates a new responsibility: cybersecurity.

Cybersecurity is not just an IT department issue anymore. If an AV system is connected to the same network as a business, school, hospital, house of worship, hotel, government facility, or corporate office, it can become part of that organization’s security risk. A poorly configured AV device can create vulnerabilities, expose sensitive systems, or give attackers another path into the network.

That does not mean AV installers need to become full-time cybersecurity engineers. But it does mean installers need to understand the basics, follow safer installation practices, and design systems with security in mind from day one.

 

Why AV Cybersecurity Matters More in 2026

 

The AV industry has changed quickly. Commercial AV is moving away from simple point-to-point hardware and toward network-based systems. This shift makes systems more flexible, scalable, and easier to manage, but it also increases the importance of proper network security.

A traditional HDMI extender or matrix may have had limited exposure outside the room it was installed in. Today, an AV-over-IP encoder, IP decoder, NVR, controller, or networked DSP may have a web interface, login credentials, firmware updates, multicast traffic, remote access options, and integration with third-party control systems.

That means every connected AV device should be treated like a network endpoint.

Common AV cybersecurity risks include:

• Default usernames and passwords left unchanged
• Devices placed on the main business network without segmentation
• Outdated firmware
• Unsecured web interfaces
• Open ports that are not needed
• Remote access enabled without proper protection
• Poor documentation of device IP addresses and credentials
• Lack of coordination between AV installers and IT teams
• Using unmanaged switches where managed network control is needed

These issues may seem small during installation, but they can create major problems later.

 

AV Devices Are Now Network Devices

 

 

One of the biggest mindset shifts for AV installers is this: if a device has an IP address, it needs to be treated as part of the network.

That includes:

• AV-over-IP encoders and decoders
• Matrix switchers with LAN control
• IP cameras
• Network video recorders
• IP speakers
• Dante audio devices
• DSP processors
• Touch panels and control processors
• Wireless presentation systems
• Video wall controllers
• Digital signage players
• Conference room cameras
• Remote monitoring gateways

These devices often need to communicate with each other, with a controller, or with a management platform. But they do not always need unrestricted access to the entire company network or the public internet.

This is where good AV design and good IT design start to overlap.

 

The Risk of Default Passwords

 

 

Default passwords are one of the most common security mistakes in AV installations. Many devices ship with simple login credentials to make setup easier. That is convenient during installation, but dangerous if those credentials are never changed.

Leaving default credentials in place can allow unauthorized users to log into the device, change settings, disrupt service, view system information, or use the device as an entry point into the network.

For AV installers, the best practice is simple:

Change default passwords during installation.

Installers should also document the new credentials securely and provide them to the appropriate customer contact. Passwords should not be written on the device, taped inside a rack, or shared in plain text across unsecured channels.

For larger projects, credentials should be coordinated with the customer’s IT team or password management process.

 

Network Segmentation Is Critical

 

 

One of the most important cybersecurity practices for AV systems is network segmentation.

Network segmentation means separating AV devices from other parts of the customer’s network. This is often done using VLANs, dedicated subnets, firewall rules, or managed network switches.

For example, an AV-over-IP system may need encoders, decoders, and a controller to communicate with each other. But those devices may not need direct access to accounting systems, HR files, point-of-sale systems, student records, medical records, or executive computers.

Keeping AV traffic segmented helps improve both security and performance.

Segmentation can help:

• Reduce the attack surface
• Limit the spread of a security issue
• Keep multicast AV traffic away from unrelated network devices
• Make troubleshooting easier
• Improve system stability
• Give IT teams more visibility and control

For installers, this is especially important when deploying AV-over-IP, IP cameras, NVRs, and other network-heavy systems.

 

AV-over-IP Security: What Installers Should Know

 

 

AV-over-IP is one of the biggest reasons cybersecurity now matters in commercial AV. These systems allow video and audio to be distributed over the network instead of through traditional point-to-point HDMI or HDBaseT cabling.

AV-over-IP can be powerful, scalable, and cost-effective, especially for larger systems. But because it runs on network infrastructure, it needs to be installed with network security in mind.

Important AV-over-IP security considerations include:

• Use managed switches when required
• Create a dedicated VLAN or subnet for AV traffic
• Disable unused ports and services
• Change default credentials on encoders, decoders, and controllers
• Keep firmware updated
• Limit web GUI access to authorized users
• Avoid exposing AV devices directly to the internet
• Coordinate multicast, IGMP snooping, and network settings with IT
• Document IP addresses, device names, and system layout

A strong AV-over-IP installation is not just about getting the picture to display. It is about building a system that is stable, manageable, and secure.

 

Firmware Updates Matter

 

Firmware updates are often overlooked in AV installations. Once the system is working, many customers do not want to touch it. But outdated firmware can create long-term security and reliability risks.

Manufacturers may release firmware updates to fix bugs, improve compatibility, add features, or address security vulnerabilities. Installers should make firmware review part of their project process, especially before final handoff.

A practical approach is to:

• Check firmware versions before installation
• Update devices when appropriate
• Avoid updating during critical live operation
• Document firmware versions at project completion
• Provide the customer with update recommendations
• Coordinate updates with IT for larger systems

Firmware management is especially important for devices with web interfaces, remote access features, or cloud connectivity.

 

Remote Access Should Be Handled Carefully

 

Remote access can be useful for troubleshooting and support, but it must be handled carefully.

Many customers like the idea of remote AV support because it can reduce truck rolls and speed up troubleshooting. However, exposing AV devices directly to the internet is risky. A web GUI, control processor, camera system, or NVR should not be openly accessible without proper protection.

Safer options may include:

• VPN access managed by the customer’s IT team
• Secure remote management platforms
• Role-based access controls
• Strong passwords
• Multi-factor authentication where available
• Limited access only when needed
• Logging and monitoring

The key point is simple: remote access should be planned, not improvised.

If an installer needs remote access after the job is complete, that access should be approved by the customer and configured securely.

 

AV and IT Teams Need to Work Together

 

In 2026, AV installers and IT teams cannot operate in separate worlds.

AV teams understand signal flow, room design, audio, video, control, source routing, EDID, HDCP, display behavior, and the real-world needs of the space. IT teams understand network policies, security requirements, VLANs, firewall rules, authentication, IP addressing, and device management.

The best projects happen when both sides are involved early.

Before installation, AV integrators should ask questions like:

• Will the AV system be on the customer’s network?
• Is a dedicated AV VLAN required?
• Who assigns IP addresses?
• Are static IPs or DHCP reservations preferred?
• What password policy should be followed?
• Is internet access required for any devices?
• Are firmware updates allowed?
• Is remote access needed?
• Who will maintain the system after installation?
• Are there cybersecurity requirements for vendors?

These questions help avoid problems later and make the integrator look more professional.

 

Cybersecurity Can Become a Competitive Advantage

 

Many customers are becoming more security-conscious. Corporate offices, schools, healthcare facilities, government agencies, and enterprise environments increasingly expect vendors to understand basic cybersecurity practices.

For AV installers, this is an opportunity.

An integrator who can talk confidently about VLANs, password changes, firmware updates, remote access, device documentation, and IT coordination will stand out from competitors who only talk about hardware.

Cybersecurity can help AV installers win more trust, especially on larger commercial projects.

It also helps reduce callbacks. A properly documented and segmented system is easier to maintain, troubleshoot, and expand. That saves time for both the installer and the customer.

 

Practical Cybersecurity Checklist for AV Installers

 

AV cybersecurity does not need to be complicated. Here is a practical checklist installers can use on most network-connected AV projects.

 

Before Installation

 

• Confirm whether devices will connect to the customer’s network
• Coordinate with the IT department
• Determine VLAN, subnet, and IP address requirements
• Identify which devices need internet access
• Review product firmware availability
• Plan remote access requirements
• Confirm password and credential policies

 

During Installation

 

• Change all default passwords
• Use managed switches where appropriate
• Segment AV devices from the main business network
• Disable unused services when possible
• Avoid exposing AV devices directly to the internet
• Label devices clearly
• Document IP addresses and login information securely
• Test system performance and network stability

 

After Installation

 

• Provide the customer with system documentation
• Record firmware versions
• Explain how updates should be handled
• Confirm who is responsible for ongoing maintenance
• Remove unnecessary temporary access
• Review remote access settings
• Train the customer on basic system operation and security precautions

 

Common AV Security Mistakes to Avoid

 

Even experienced installers can run into cybersecurity issues if security is treated as an afterthought.

Avoid these common mistakes:

 

1. Leaving default credentials in place

This is one of the easiest problems to fix and one of the most important.

 

2. Putting every AV device on the main network

AV systems should be segmented when possible, especially on commercial projects.

 

3. Using unmanaged switches for complex networked AV systems

Some simple systems may not need advanced switching, but AV-over-IP often requires proper switch configuration.

 

4. Exposing device web interfaces to the internet

Remote access should go through secure methods, not open public access.

 

5. Failing to document the system

Poor documentation creates security and support problems later.

 

6. Ignoring firmware

Outdated firmware can create compatibility, reliability, and security issues.

 

7. Not involving IT early enough

Waiting until the end of the project to involve IT can delay installation and create avoidable problems.

 

What This Means for Commercial AV Buyers

 

For businesses, schools, churches, hotels, healthcare facilities, and other organizations, AV cybersecurity should be part of the buying conversation.

When choosing an AV installer or integrator, customers should ask:

• Will this system connect to our network?
• How will AV devices be segmented?
• Will default passwords be changed?
• Who manages firmware updates?
• Is remote access required?
• How will device credentials be stored?
• What documentation will we receive?
• Does the system require a managed switch?
• Will your team coordinate with our IT department?

These questions help ensure the AV system is not only functional, but also secure and maintainable.

 

AV systems are no longer isolated from the rest of a building’s technology infrastructure. In 2026, AV devices are often network-connected, cloud-managed, remotely supported, and integrated with IT systems.

That makes cybersecurity an essential part of modern AV installation.

For AV installers and integrators, the goal is not to become cybersecurity experts overnight. The goal is to follow smart, practical steps: change default passwords, segment the network, update firmware, avoid unsafe remote access, document the system, and work closely with IT.

Installers who understand AV cybersecurity will deliver better systems, reduce risk for their customers, and stand out in a more demanding commercial AV market.

As AV, IT, and security continue to converge, the best integrators will be the ones who can design systems that are not only powerful and easy to use, but also secure from the start.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

 

Why does cybersecurity matter for AV installers?

Cybersecurity matters because many modern AV devices connect to the network. If those devices are not configured properly, they can create security risks for the customer’s larger IT environment.

 

Are AV-over-IP systems secure?

AV-over-IP systems can be secure when installed correctly. Best practices include using managed switches, VLANs, strong passwords, firmware updates, and proper coordination with IT teams.

 

Should AV devices be on a separate network?

In many commercial installations, yes. AV devices should often be placed on a dedicated VLAN or subnet to improve security, performance, and manageability.

 

What is the biggest AV cybersecurity mistake?

One of the biggest mistakes is leaving default usernames and passwords unchanged. Another common mistake is placing AV devices on the main business network without segmentation.

 

Do AV installers need to be cybersecurity experts?

No. But AV installers should understand basic cybersecurity best practices and know when to involve the customer’s IT team.

 

How can businesses make AV systems more secure?

Businesses can improve AV security by requiring password changes, network segmentation, firmware management, secure remote access, and proper documentation from their AV installer.

 

Sources

• AVIXA: 2026 AV Industry Trends
• AVNetwork: Top Integrators 2025: Top Trends for 2026
• NIST: Cybersecurity Framework 2.0
• CISA: Cybersecurity guidance on default passwords, patching, and secure configuration