What is an active barrier in a security context?

An active barrier in a security context refers specifically to physical control measures that are designed to respond dynamically to threats. This means that these barriers are not just passive structures that provide a line of defense but instead can engage or react to an intrusion or attack.

For example, active barriers may include mechanisms such as retractable bollards, electronic gates, and other technologies that can automatically respond to unauthorized access attempts. This mobility and responsiveness enhance the overall security by adapting to threats in real-time, making it more difficult for intruders to bypass these defenses.

Contrasting with passive controls, which simply provide a fixed form of protection, like walls or fences, active barriers are designed to proactively deter or mitigate threats. This proactive response capability is what distinguishes them in the realm of physical security measures and underlines the significance of having a layered and adaptable security system.