How PoE Security Systems Transform Retail Security and Customer Experience

Retailers today face a dual challenge: protecting assets while delivering a seamless customer experience. Rising theft, evolving consumer expectations, and tighter margins are forcing businesses to rethink how their stores operate. Power over Ethernet (PoE) security systems are emerging as a powerful solution, enabling retailers to strengthen security, reduce infrastructure costs, and support modern in-store technologies.

Retailers facing an uncertain economy focus on maintaining margins. Whether lowering operating costs or reducing expenditures, consumer-facing businesses must balance customer satisfaction and profitability. For many, that means deploying cost-saving technology such as PoE. 

What are PoE Security Systems?

PoE technology enables power and data to be sent over a single Ethernet cable. This eliminates the need for separate electrical wiring and allows devices to be deployed wherever they are most effective. The latest standard supports devices needing up to 90W of power, such as high-speed video cameras. The standard also allows gigabits of data to be transmitted for artificial intelligence (AI) applications. Because power and data share a transmission cable, retailers do not require separate electrical wires.  They can place cameras, access readers, and sensors where they provide the most protection. 

Expanding or adjusting PoE configurations is equivalent to adding or changing an Ethernet network. It requires PoE-enabled devices and cabling runs to scale deployment. Network administrators can even oversee installation and configuration remotely, minimizing operational disruptions. With switches, IT departments can manage multiple devices from a central location, simplifying network management.

This unified infrastructure of PoE security systems simplifies deployment while enabling more advanced security capabilities.

Creating PoE Security Systems

Versa’s D62-084-MX-DCP managed PoE switch offers critical features to enhance store security. As an industrial switch, it provides up to 90W to power high-performance pan-tilt-zoom (PTZ) and multi-sensor cameras, IP speakers, and wireless access points. Its flexible power options include 12V and 24V DC outputs to support non-PoE network devices, helping business owners retain their investment in older technology.

The D62-084-MX-DCP offers an embedded Network Topology System (NTS) with a web-based interface for remote access. The switch allows the following:

Auto Discovery

PoE switches can automatically discover and classify devices using the Open Network Video Interface Forum (ONVIF) protocol. The standardized communication allows cameras, virtual machine software, and AI applications to connect seamlessly. It enables store managers to monitor their network devices remotely.

E-MAP

The D62 switches provide electronic mapping of a PoE-based network. They can display topographic, floor, and Google Maps views. Retailers can upload floor images for improved planning and export floor plans with deployed surveillance devices.

Device Management

The D62-084-MX-DCP web interface allows store managers to monitor camera status. Cameras are identified by name or Media Access Control (MAC) address, with their power consumption and connectivity displayed. PoE devices can be turned on and off or rebooted remotely, giving managers more control over their security systems.

Cable Diagnostics

Knowing the real-time status of cameras or sensors connected to a PoE switch can alert administrators of possible cabling issues. If switch ports do not receive responses from cameras, administrators can test the connections to determine if the cabling is at fault.

Integrating Access Control

PoE-enabled devices such as door locks and card readers can work with PoE surveillance systems for enhanced security. Devices can be placed where needed without the need for nearby power sources. For example, placing an access control reader on a door and a camera above it ensures that a person entering the room is an authorized person. Stores have more control over their security when they can verify an employee’s movements and identity.

PoE switches, when connected to an uninterruptible power supply (UPS), can continue to power door locks, alarms, and cameras during a power outage, when retailers are more vulnerable. According to a 2024 National Retail Federation (NRF) survey, shoplifting has increased by 93%, with revenue losses up 90% since 2019. Additionally, shoplifters are more aggressive than in previous years. Approximately 90% of those surveyed saw an increase in violence since 2019.

Organized retail crime (ORC) continues to escalate, costing businesses an estimated $100 billion annually. ORC refers to multi-person theft, where two or three individuals work together to steal multiple items. With 62% of stores experiencing more ORC incidents, retailers need to embrace an integrated approach to security.

How PoE Enhances the Customer Experience

Few consumers consider in-store crime when discussing what makes an exceptional customer experience. However, retailers know that not removing a violent shoplifter detracts from any shopping experience. It’s why nearly 73% of store managers are looking for ways to cost-effectively strengthen security.

PoE technology not only reduces installation and maintenance costs by eliminating electrical wiring, but also saves energy costs through PoE energy management capabilities. With its increased bandwidth support, PoE solutions can transmit gigabits of data to AI applications for real-time, data-driven insights.

Beyond improved security, PoE technology allows retailers to add other customer-centered amenities such as the following:

Price Checking

PoE-enabled scanning devices can help customers verify prices. For more personal service, store associates can carry scanning devices that connect using PoE-powered access points. 

Inventory Management

Nothing spoils a shopping experience faster than learning the perfect item is out of stock. PoE-powered kiosks allow consumers to check availability or place a backorder. Customer-centered applications indicate when an item is in stock, direct buyers to another location that carries the item, or suggest a similar item. Providing alternatives minimizes a shopper’s disappointment when leaving empty-handed. 

Customization Experiences

PoE-powered kiosks can allow shoppers to customize purchases. They can look at different colors, fabrics, and accessories before placing an order. With personalized shopping applications, kiosks can provide consumers with their purchase history, helping them locate previously purchased items to help with a buying decision.

Evolving Retail Security and Customer Experience

Retail security forms the basis for exceptional customer service. Unchecked shoplifting can turn away existing or potential customers. Add in potential violence, and retailers can quickly see their market share decline. That’s why they are continuously evaluating security solutions.PoE technology allows retailers to strengthen security cost-effectively while integrating with other technologies to enhance customer amenities. PoE simplifies network expansion to add self-service kiosks, price-checking stations, and product comparison signage. It becomes a foundational component of a retailer’s future. Versa Technology is a leading supplier of PoE solutions, offering managed and unmanaged switches for industrial applications. Our knowledgeable staff can answer your questions as you explore PoE technology. Contact us to request a quote or ask a question.