Navigating NDAA Compliant Video Security Solutions
What is NDAA Compliance?
NDAA compliant cameras adhere to stringent regulations outlined in the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) of the United States, aimed at safeguarding national security interests. These regulations restrict the use of cameras and technology products from specific manufacturers, particularly those from manufacturers deemed high-risk in terms of national security. In order for video surveillance equipment to be installed on U.S. government properties, or the properties of vendors doing business with the U.S. federal government, it must comply with section 889 of the 2019 NDAA.
How is NDAA Compliance Defined?
No components of the equipment can be sourced from a prohibited supplier. Even if a manufacturer is not specifically listed, if the manufacturer sources components from a company on the prohibited manufactures list, that equipment cannot be legally installed.
Component and equipment manufacturers that are prohibited include:
- Hikvision
- Huawei
- ZTE
- Hikvision
- Dahua
- Hytera
What is the NDAA, and why should security installers care about it?
In simple terms, the National Defense Authorization Act comprises a series of federal laws passed annually by Congress to outline the budget for the U.S. Department of Defense.
But how does this legislation impact security professionals like us? The relevance lies in the John S. McCain National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2019. While delving into the extensive document may not be everyone’s idea of a riveting read, it’s crucial for understanding its implications for our industry.
Within this act, particularly under the “Other Matters” section, is Section 889, which imposes restrictions on specific telecommunications and video surveillance services or equipment. For those involved in providing or selling such services or equipment, especially to U.S. government agencies, compliance with the 2019 NDAA is paramount. If you would like to read the whole act, click here.
To simplify, if you’re in the business of video surveillance, whether through services or equipment sales, the 2019 NDAA is something you can’t afford to overlook.
The specific paragraph in the 2019 NDAA that applies to security camera installers is…
The head of an executive agency may not— (A) procure or obtain or extend or renew a contract to procure or obtain any equipment, system, or service that uses covered telecommunications equipment or services as a substantial or essential component of any system, or as critical technology as part of any system; or (B) enter into a contract (or extend or renew a contract) with an entity that uses any equipment, system, or service that uses covered telecommunications equipment or services as a substantial or essential component of any system, or as critical technology as part of any system. (2)
Nothing in paragraph (1) shall be construed to— (A) prohibit the head of an executive agency from procuring with an entity to provide a service that connects to the facilities of a third-party, such as backhaul, roaming, or interconnection arrangements; or (B) cover telecommunications equipment that cannot route or redirect user data traffic or permit visibility into any user data or packets that such equipment transmits or otherwise handles.
What falls under the scope of this legislation? Which manufacturers are not NDAA Compliant?
Specifically, it targets the People’s Republic of China as the covered foreign country. In terms of covered telecommunications equipment, this includes:
- Telecommunications gear manufactured by Huawei Technologies Company, ZTE Corporation, or any of their affiliates.
- Video surveillance equipment from Hytera Communications Corporation, Hangzhou Hikvision Digital Technology Company, Dahua Technology Company, or their affiliates.
- Telecommunications or video surveillance services offered by the aforementioned companies or any entity using equipment produced by them.
In essence, if you’re involved in installing security equipment on government properties or supplying such equipment for government use, meticulous attention to the manufacturer and components of your cameras is essential.
Additionally, NDAA Section 889 extends beyond government facilities to encompass any federally funded project. For example, if you’re installing security cameras at a school or municipality receiving federal grant funding, compliance with the NDAA is mandatory. While non-federally funded entities have more flexibility in their choice of security cameras, erring on the side of caution by opting for NDAA-compliant products is advisable for any project involving city, state, or federal government facilities.
Which security products face restrictions on US government properties?
The regulations encompass two main bans. Firstly, telecommunications equipment from Huawei and ZTE is prohibited. Secondly, video surveillance equipment from Hytera, Hikvision, and Dahua falls under the ban. Given that video surveillance technology is considered telecommunications technology, any security camera or recorder with major components from these companies is unsuitable for federal government projects.
This implies that installation of Hikvision, Dahua, or Hytera cameras on government properties is prohibited. However, the ban extends beyond the original manufacturers to include any OEM (original equipment manufacturer) use of these cameras. Since Hikvision and Dahua are major players in the security equipment industry, this restriction affects numerous companies.
Understanding which cameras are safe for installation on government properties may seem daunting. However, there is a way forward. It’s crucial to note that the ban encompasses more than just equipment manufactured by the blacklisted companies; it also includes security equipment containing major components from these companies.
For instance, Huawei’s HiSilicon SoC chipsets are also prohibited. These chipsets, which serve as the core of security cameras or recorders, are widely used in the industry. Hence, ensuring compliance with these regulations requires careful consideration of the equipment’s components and manufacturers.
Which security cameras are permissible for use on US government properties?
Due to the lack of transparency from most manufacturers regarding the components used in their equipment, determining if equipment is NDAA compliant can be challenging. Therefore, it’s vital that your supplier provides full transparency regarding the camera’s manufacturer and chip type.
At TeluView, we prioritize transparency in our product offerings. We offer four primary lines of security equipment that are compliant with the provisions of the 2019 NDAA: Uniview, Uniarch, and Vivotek. Here’s how they align with NDAA compliance:
Uniview & Uniarch: Uniarch and Uniview emerge as leading providers of NDAA-compliant security solutions, offering a diverse range of products designed to meet the stringent requirements outlined in the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA).
Hanwha WiseNet: Formerly known as Samsung Hanwha Techwin Wisenet, the company embodies innovation and reliability in the realm of NDAA compliant surveillance technology. With a commitment to meeting stringent regulatory standards, Hanwha offers a range of security cameras and systems that adhere to the requirements outlined in the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA).
Vivotek: Vivotek stands as a trusted provider of NDAA compliant security solutions, offering a wide array of advanced surveillance products designed to meet the stringent requirements outlined in the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA).
NDAA Complaint In Conclusion
TeluView understands the challenges faced by customers who need to install video surveillance equipment on government properties. With numerous security cameras available, some manufactured or containing components from banned companies, determining which products are suitable for federal government use can be daunting. Many companies withhold this critical information, adding to the complexity.
While we prioritize transparency and reliability in our products at TeluView, trust is not built overnight. We aim to foster trust through consistent integrity, offering accurate information and effective tools to support your business growth.
Our commitment extends beyond selling security cameras; we aspire to be your trusted partner in advancing the security industry.
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