Corrections_Today_Spring_2025_Vol.87_No.1

TECHNOLOGY

Addressing privacy and ethical considerations

have not evolved as quickly as the endpoints you want to enable. Be cautious of providers that recommend the rip and-replace of existing cabling infrastructure, which can create several digital transformation challenges. Cost: Re-cabling a large facility, especially one with complex infrastructure, can be prohibitively expensive. The cost includes not just the materials and labor for installing new cables but also the potential need to retrofit or rebuild parts of the facility to accommodate these changes. Operational Dis

While the benefits of IP technology are clear, it’s important for correctional facilities to balance these advantages with ethical considerations, particularly regarding privacy. Advanced surveillance tools must be used responsibly to ensure they do not infringe on incarcerated individuals’ rights. Facilities must establish clear guidelines and oversight mechanisms to govern the use of these technolo

ruption: Correctional facilities cannot afford prolonged downtime. Any disruption to their surveillance or commu nication systems could pose significant security risks. Re-cabling a cor rections facility often requires areas to be shut down or have limited ac cess, which is not feasible in a setting that operates around the clock. Physical Limita tions: Older facilities may have limited space for new cabling, or exist ing conduits may not

gies, ensuring that they are deployed fairly and transparently​. 4 Implementing IP solutions in correctional facilities is more than just a technological upgrade—it’s a strate gic decision that can transform how these institutions operate. By enhancing secu rity, reducing costs, and supporting rehabilita tion efforts, IP systems offer a comprehensive solution to the unique challenges faced by cor rectional facilities. As

these technologies continue to evolve, they will play an increasingly critical role in shaping the future of correc tions, enabling safer and more effective management of these complex environments. Overcoming implementation barriers Digital transformation, Cloud, and IP adoption helps correctional facilities and teams achieve more with less. Adopting these new IP capabilities is imperative to better protect, incarcerated individuals, staff, and com munities. Delaying this transformation and a poorly designed network may put your people at risk. Many of these capabilities require modern IP-enabled endpoints to support advanced applications. However, traditional network design thinking and many network solutions

be able to accommodate additional lines. Additionally, certain areas, such as secure cells or remote outdoor locations, may be difficult or dangerous to access for installation. Safety and Security: During re-cabling, the security and safety of both the installation team and facility residents must be managed carefully. This adds an extra layer of complexity to any infrastructure project in a cor rectional environment. Leveraging network innovations to improve IP migration outcomes Fortunately, modern networking innovations can help overcome these challenges by allowing cor rectional facilities to leverage their existing cabling

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Corrections Today | Spring 2025

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