There are many types of security companies, each built around different risks, clients, and job sites. Each model comes with its own services, licensing requirements, and business challenges. This guide breaks them down so you can understand what sets them apart.

In this article, we’ll cover: 

• 10 top types of security companies
• Choosing the right type of security business to start

We already know what a security company is, so let’s jump right into the 10 types of security companies.

TL;DR: 10 top types of security companies 

1. Corporate security companies: Protects offices, campuses, and business parks.
   
   
2. Event security firms: Manages crowds and risks at public and private events.
   
   
3. Residential patrol services: Patrols neighborhoods, gated communities, and apartments.
   
   
4. Executive protection companies: Provides bodyguards and personal security.
   
   
5. Mobile patrol-only services: Uses vehicle patrols to cover multiple sites.
   
   
6. Government or defense contractors: Supports federal, state, or military operations.
   
   
7. Alarm monitoring and rapid response firms: Responds to triggered alarms and system alerts.
   
   
8. International security companies: Offers cross-border, maritime, or diplomatic services.
   
   
9. Private investigation and surveillance firms: Conducts surveillance, background checks, and fraud investigations.
   
   
10. Niche or hybrid security providers: Focuses on specialized markets like cannabis, K-9 detection, or fire watch.

1. Corporate security companies

Corporate security companies focus on protecting commercial buildings, office parks, and high-risk business assets. These firms usually provide uniformed guards, access control, visitor management, and site patrols during and after business hours.

Here’s what corporate security companies typically handle on the job:

Typical services

• Access control: Guard stations, badge checks, and entry logs
  
  
• Foot patrols: Roving officers inside and outside buildings
  
  
• Monitoring: CCTV surveillance and alarm system response
  
  
• Visitor screening: ID checks, sign-ins, and package inspections

Who they usually serve

• Office buildings
  
  
• Banks and data centers
  
  
• Warehouses and logistics hubs

Licensing and compliance

Corporate security firms need state licensing, business insurance, and officer certifications. Local laws or union contracts may also require guards to undergo the proper training.

Business model and scale

These companies often operate on long-term contracts, sometimes managing dozens of locations. Many use full-time guards with set shifts, and larger firms invest in scheduling software, GPS tracking, and digital reporting tools.

2. Event security firms

Event security firms prioritize protecting people, property, and entrances at temporary or high-traffic events. These companies manage access, control crowds, prevent fights, and coordinate with emergency responders when needed.

Here’s what event security firms typically handle on the job:

Typical services

• Access control: Bag checks, ticket scanning, and ID verification
  
  
• Crowd control: Managing lines, exits, and potential overflow
  
  
• Incident response: Breaking up altercations or calling EMS or police
  
  
• Perimeter security: Guarding entrances, fences, and backstage areas

Who they usually serve

• Concerts and music festivals
  
  
• Sports stadiums and tournaments
  
  
• Corporate events and trade shows
  
  
• Private parties and VIP gatherings

Licensing and compliance

Most event guards need a standard guard license in their state. In some locations, armed or high-risk events may require special permits or coordination with law enforcement.

Business model and scale

These firms tend to operate on short-term contracts that follow the event calendar. They scale up quickly by pulling from a large roster of part-time or on-call guards. Flexibility and quick scheduling tools are key to managing shifting needs across events.

3. Residential patrol services

Residential patrol services protect neighborhoods, apartments, and private communities. These companies use vehicle or foot patrols to deter crime and respond quickly when something looks off.

Here’s what residential patrol services typically handle on the job:

Typical services

• Scheduled patrols: Officers check properties on a rotating schedule
  
  
• Alarm response: Guards respond to triggered alarms or reports from residents
  
  
• Lock-ups and door checks: Teams secure gates, garages, and shared spaces
  
  
• Reporting: Officers send updates to property managers or residents

Who they usually serve

• Apartment complexes
  
  
• Gated communities
  
  
• HOAs and condo boards
  
  
• Private estates

Licensing and compliance

Companies need a state business license, guard cards, and insurance. Some states require extra vehicle permits or written post orders for residential work.

Business model and scale

This is one of the leaner security business ideas. Most firms start small with a few patrol cars and grow by adding routes. Companies succeed when they balance scheduling, fuel management, and community visibility efficiently.

4. Executive protection companies

Executive protection companies provide personal security for high-risk clients. These firms assign trained guards to stay close, prevent threats, and keep movements secure. Bodyguards are a common example of private security.

Here’s what executive protection companies typically handle on the job:

Typical services

• Personal escorts: Guards travel with clients to meetings or events
  
  
• Threat assessment: Teams plan routes and check locations ahead of time
  
  
• Access control: Officers manage who can approach the client
  
  
• Travel logistics: Firms help secure hotels, drivers, and safe entry points

Who they usually serve

• CEOs and high-net-worth individuals
  
  
• Celebrities and athletes
  
  
• Public officials and witnesses

Licensing and compliance

Guards need active licenses and sometimes firearm certifications. Many clients prefer officers with military or law enforcement backgrounds. Some states require advanced training for armed close protection work.

Business model and scale

This is one of the most profitable security companies to run, but it requires experience and strong client trust. Firms stay small, work with fewer clients, and provide around-the-clock coverage for premium rates.

5. Mobile patrol-only services

Mobile patrol-only services use vehicles to check multiple sites during each shift. These companies focus on visibility, fast response, and covering more ground with fewer guards.

Here’s what mobile patrol services typically handle on the job:

Typical services

• Drive-by patrols: Officers check properties on scheduled routes
  
  
• Alarm response: Guards respond quickly to triggered systems
  
  
• Incident reporting: Teams log activity and flag security issues
  
  
• Lock-ups and checks: Officers secure access points and inspect doors

Who they usually serve

• Retail centers and office parks
  
  
• Warehouses and storage yards
  
  
• Residential communities and HOAs
  
  
• Empty buildings or construction zones

Licensing and compliance

Patrol firms need business licenses, insurance, and guard certifications. States may also require marked vehicle permits or rules on using lights and logos.

Business model and scale 

Mobile patrols keep costs low by serving many locations per shift. These services work well for new operators building routes. Strong marketing strategies help reach landlords, property managers, and small businesses that want coverage without hiring full-time guards.

6. Government or defense contractors

Government and defense contractors protect public sites, military bases, and high-risk infrastructure. These companies follow strict rules and work on long-term government contracts.

Here’s what government contractors typically handle on the job:

Typical services

• Access control: Guards screen vehicles and visitors at secured sites
  
  
• Facility protection: Officers guard buildings, depots, and airfields
  
  
• Armed patrols: Teams carry firearms and follow use-of-force policies
  
  
• Escort duties: Guards travel with sensitive materials or personnel

Who they usually serve

• Federal buildings
  
  
• Military installations
  
  
• Utility and transportation hubs
  
  
• Local or state government offices

Licensing and compliance

These firms meet federal contract rules and vet all staff through background checks. Guards often need firearm certifications and may need security clearances or past military service.

Business model and scale

These companies win large contracts through formal bidding. They manage high overhead and strict performance standards but earn steady revenue over multi-year terms. Most operate at a national scale with full-time armed teams.

7. Alarm monitoring and rapid response firms

Alarm monitoring and rapid response firms watch over security systems and send guards when alarms go off. These companies help clients respond fast without staffing a full-time guard.

Here’s what alarm response firms typically handle on the job:

Typical services

• 24/7 monitoring: Teams watch alarm systems, cameras, and motion detectors
  
  
• Dispatch response: Officers arrive on-site after an alert
  
  
• Verification: Guards check for break-ins, tampering, or false alarms
  
  
• System testing: Staff run regular checks to confirm everything works

Who they usually serve

• Small businesses
  
  
• Retail stores
  
  
• Warehouses and storage yards
  
  
• Homes with upgraded alarm systems

Licensing and compliance

Companies need a guard license, business registration, and alarm system certification where required. Some states have rules for response times and reporting.

Business model and scale

These firms earn money through recurring monitoring fees and on-call response charges. Most use a central dispatch center and a mobile guard team. The model scales well with technology and works for both startups and larger firms.

8. International security companies

International security companies operate across borders and protect people, property, and assets in high-risk regions. These firms handle jobs that involve travel, political instability, or global operations.

Here’s what international security companies typically handle on the job:

Typical services

• Executive protection: Officers guard clients while traveling abroad
  
  
• Convoy security: Teams escort vehicles through dangerous areas
  
  
• Facility defense: Guards protect embassies, compounds, and remote sites
  
  
• Risk consulting: Firms advise on travel safety, political threats, and logistics

Who they usually serve

• Multinational corporations
  
  
• Government contractors
  
  
• Diplomats and aid workers
  
  
• Journalists and private clients in conflict zones

Licensing and compliance

These companies must follow local and international laws. They may need special permits, work visas, or host-nation agreements. Many hire staff with military or intelligence backgrounds.

Business model and scale

These firms charge premium rates due to the risks involved. They often operate in war zones or unstable regions and work with government agencies or global businesses. Their teams include logistics experts, armed guards, and security consultants.

9. Private investigation and surveillance firms

Private investigation and surveillance firms gather information for legal, corporate, or personal cases. These companies focus on observation, research, and discreet fieldwork.

Here’s what private investigation firms typically handle on the job:

Typical services

• Surveillance: Investigators follow subjects and document activity
  
  
• Background checks: Firms verify employment, criminal records, or financials
  
  
• Fraud investigations: Teams collect evidence for insurance or workplace cases
  
  
• Domestic cases: Investigators handle infidelity, custody, or harassment claims

Who they usually serve

• Law firms and insurance companies
  
  
• Employers and business owners
  
  
• Private clients and families
  
  
• Property managers and landlords

Licensing and compliance

Most states require private investigator licenses. States set their own rules, and firms follow them by logging cases, respecting privacy laws, and steering clear of impersonation or illegal surveillance.

Business model and scale

Most firms operate solo or in small teams. They charge hourly or flat rates based on the case. Some work full-time in legal support, while others specialize in niche services like corporate espionage or tenant screening.

10. Niche or hybrid security providers

Some security companies specialize in one job or mix services to fit a specific market. These firms don’t follow the usual model, but they solve real problems in overlooked areas.

Here’s what these providers typically handle on the job:

Typical services

• K-9 detection: Handlers use trained dogs to detect firearms, explosives, or drugs
  
  
• Cannabis security: Officers patrol dispensaries, respond to alarms, and monitor compliance
  
  
• Fire watch: Guards protect buildings when fire systems go offline during repairs or construction
  
  
• Custom coverage: Some firms handle crowd control, parking enforcement, or inspection support

Who they usually serve

• Cannabis grow sites and dispensaries
  
  
• Construction and maintenance crews
  
  
• Property owners with temporary safety needs
  
  
• Venues hosting short-term events

Licensing and compliance

Firms follow state licensing rules and meet extra requirements for high-risk sectors. For example, cannabis jobs may require specialized permits, background checks, and strict documentation. Also, fire watch jobs often involve coordination with local fire departments.

Business model and scale

Most firms start small and build strong client relationships in one industry. Owners often bring specialized gear, like detection dogs or camera trailers. These companies grow by solving tough problems and offering reliable coverage where others don’t.

How to choose the right type of security company to start

Use your skills and local demand to pick a model that works. These tips can help you choose the right direction:

• Use your background: Pick a model that matches your experience. If you’ve done event work, offer crowd control. If you’ve worked in law enforcement, look at executive protection or government contracts.
  
  
• Solve local problems: Look at what clients near you need. Patrol gated communities, guard warehouses, or respond to alarms for small businesses.
  
  
• Check license and startup requirements: Armed work needs more training, insurance, and permits. Residential patrol or alarm response costs less to start and needs fewer approvals.
  
  
• Sell what you can pitch: Some models rely on cold calls or requests for proposals (RFPs). Others grow through relationships with landlords or HOAs. Choose a service you know how to sell.
  
  
• Plan for growth: Start lean, but think about how you’ll scale. Use tools like scheduling software or GPS tracking to take on more work without hiring too fast.

How Belfry helps security companies improve operations

Most types of security companies deal with the same core problems. Scheduling gaps, missed reports, expired licenses, and poor communication can slow down your entire operation. These issues cost time, hurt client trust, and make it harder to grow. 

Belfry is an all-in-one security guard software that puts everything in one place, making it easier to manage your team (no matter your industry).

Here’s how:

• Easy scheduling: Belfry assigns shifts automatically based on site needs, guard certifications, and training records. This helps you avoid conflicts and unmanned posts.
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• Increased officer accountability: Belfry has GPS tracking and NFC-based guided tours to help you make sure your guards are adhering to their post orders. Geofencing alerts help alert you if a guard leaves their designated area.
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• Digital incident reporting: No more pen and paper. Guards can easily update you by sending digital incident reports through the Belfry mobile app. They can even attach any evidence if needed.
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• Track certifications: Prevent license compliance lapses by inputting your officers’ licenses and certifications. Belfry tracks renewal dates automatically and sends notifications when they’re coming up.
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• Custom reporting: Need to create reports? Belfry allows you to design tailored reports, including incident documentation, patrol activities, and compliance status.
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• Simplified payroll: Belfry automates time and attendance tracking to make payroll easier. It also tracks overtime, labor expenses, and timesheets to make financial reporting a breeze.

See how Belfry can help improve your security strategy (and make work easier for you). Schedule a Free Demo Today.

Frequently asked questions

Which type of security company is most profitable?

Executive protection and government contracting tend to be the most profitable types of security companies. These models offer higher rates but require more experience, certifications, and client trust. Smaller firms can also do well by focusing on recurring patrol contracts or specialized services with lower overhead.

What licenses are needed for each type of company?

Security companies need a business license and must register with the state agency that oversees private security. Most states require a company-level license, often called a security agency license or patrol service license. Each guard also needs an active security license. Armed services require firearm permits, and companies offering private investigation or international work may need additional state or federal approvals.

Can a company offer more than one type of security service?

Yes, a company can offer more than one type of security service. Many firms start with one focus, like patrol or event coverage, and later expand into executive protection, alarm response, or surveillance as they grow. Just make sure to meet all licensing and insurance requirements for each service you add.