This FIA guidance provides practical direction for installers, specifiers and fire engineers on the safe and compliant use of IP connectivity and remote services within fire detection and alarm systems. As fire systems increasingly adopt internet-based connections for monitoring, diagnostics and maintenance, this document sets out what should be considered to ensure system integrity, cyber security and continued compliance with existing standards.

The guidance explains the opportunities and limitations of remote access, clarifying what services may be provided remotely, under what conditions, and the contractual, technical and procedural safeguards that must be in place. It reinforces that remote services must not compromise life safety and do not replace the need for in-person inspection as required by BS 5839-1.

Aligned with BS EN 50710 and BS 5839-1, the document highlights responsibilities of service providers and end users, outlines security requirements for remote access infrastructure, and supports the correct application of emerging technologies while maintaining robust fire safety outcomes.