Controls like alarms, gateways, locks, lighting, and security cameras that deter and detect physical access to premises belong to which category?

Controls like alarms, gateways, locks, lighting, and security cameras that deter and detect physical access to premises belong to which category?

• A. Physical
• B. Operational
• C. Managerial
• D. Technical

Answer: (D)

Physical security controls are measures applied to the environment to deter or detect unauthorized entry to a facility. The items listed—alarms, gateways, locks, lighting, and security cameras—fit this category because they exist in the physical space and directly influence who can enter or be seen in a building. They create barriers, improve visibility, and provide notifications when entry attempts occur. While some of these controls use electronic components, their primary purpose is protecting the premises, not the information system itself. Technical controls, by contrast, protect information systems through software and network-based measures (like encryption, firewalls, or access control software). So these controls belong to the physical category.

Physical security controls are measures applied to the environment to deter or detect unauthorized entry to a facility. The items listed—alarms, gateways, locks, lighting, and security cameras—fit this category because they exist in the physical space and directly influence who can enter or be seen in a building. They create barriers, improve visibility, and provide notifications when entry attempts occur. While some of these controls use electronic components, their primary purpose is protecting the premises, not the information system itself. Technical controls, by contrast, protect information systems through software and network-based measures (like encryption, firewalls, or access control software). So these controls belong to the physical category.