VdS Security Conference 2026: Trends and innovations in security technology
This year, the renowned VdS Security Conference takes place on 18 and 19 June 2026 in Cologne. More than 30 years of experience and established networks characterise this important industry event, which is aimed at all players in the security sector – from manufacturers and distributors through to installers, operators and planners. For those unable to attend in person, the entire conference will be broadcast as an online livestream.
What has happened? – Key facts about the event
In 2026 the VdS Security Conference is being held under the thematic focus "Security for private, commercial and industrial premises" (formerly known as "burglary protection"). The event combines two days of intensive expert discussion with an accompanying trade exhibition, thus offering a comprehensive package for security professionals.
The programme concentrates on three central topic areas that currently shape the security industry:
- Artificial intelligence: Under the title "AI: game changer or source of danger?", the potential and risks of AI technologies in security technology are examined.
- Biometrics: The presentation "Biometrics – certifiably secure!" deals with secure biometric systems and their certification.
- 2G network shutdown: Under the topic "Shutdown of the 2G network – impacts and prospects", the practical consequences for the security industry are discussed.
Programme and speakers – practice-oriented expertise
Experts from a wide range of fields share their know-how: representatives from state institutions, research and development, the insurance sector and specialist security companies present current developments and solutions.
Alongside the main presentations, the conference also offers practical elements. A live demonstration on the topic "Opening doors like the professionals" will be held, conveying hands-on knowledge. Another presentation deals with the "liability trap of security" and explains why installers, network administrators and intervention forces in the banking sector operate under particular legal pressure.
Supporting programme and networking event
The conference includes an extensive trade exhibition, staged in cooperation with the Police Crime Prevention Programme of the German federal states and the federal government as well as the K-EINBRUCH initiative. Here, suppliers present current security technology from the mechanical and electronic fields as well as cyber and IT security solutions.
On the evening of 18 June, VdS invites all participants to a networking evening at the traditional brewery "Em kölsche Boor". This informal event offers an opportunity to exchange ideas and make new contacts within the industry.
Target audience and relevance
The VdS Security Conference is aimed at a broad spectrum of professionals:
- Manufacturers, distributors and service providers of security technology
- Planners and installers of mechanical and electronic security systems
- Operators of security installations
- Employees in the insurance sector
- Police and the private security industry
- Security consultants and planners
- Heads of security departments in companies, public administrations and especially in the finance and banking sector
Why is this conference relevant?
The VdS Security Conference addresses topics that are currently shaping the entire industry. The 2G network shutdown has a direct impact on alarm systems, access control systems and surveillance solutions that have so far relied on 2G mobile networks. Installers and operators must migrate their systems to new technologies – a process that raises questions about compatibility, costs and technical support.
Artificial intelligence is revolutionising security technology: from intelligent video surveillance with AI-supported anomaly detection through to automated access control systems – AI applications promise greater efficiency, but also raise questions about data protection, reliability and potential security risks.
Biometrics is gaining importance as a secure and user-friendly authentication method. The conference addresses the question of certifiability and hence also of legal certainty when implementing biometric systems.
Attending: on site or online
Flexibility is a major plus of the VdS Security Conference 2026. Participants have two options:
- On site in Cologne: Full participation in presentations, the trade exhibition and the networking evening
- Online via livestream: Following the complete presentation programme from any location
This hybrid solution also allows professionals with time or geographical constraints to benefit from the latest insights and networking opportunities.
Practical relevance for day-to-day work
For security companies, installers and planners, the conference offers directly applicable knowledge. The live demonstration of professional techniques and the discussions on liability issues in the banking sector provide concrete guidance for action. The information on legal requirements and current security standards is essential particularly for companies that install systems for sensitive areas such as banks and financial institutions.
Outlook and further information
Over more than 30 years, the VdS Security Conference has established itself as a platform for industry discourse and knowledge transfer. The choice of topics for 2026 – AI, biometrics and 2G migration – shows that the event takes the current challenges of the industry seriously and gives professionals the tools to manage these transformations.
For security companies that want to deepen their technical expertise, make their systems future-proof and discuss current developments with colleagues from the industry, attending is an investment in professional competence and networks.
