In 2024, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) reported a workforce of 260,000 composed of personnel tasked with protecting America in the air, on land, at sea — and in cyberspace. One of the many agencies that falls under DHS purview is Customs and Border Protection (CBP), whose agents and personnel operate in some of the most challenging and unpredictable environments.
Whether stationed at border checkpoints, patrolling remote areas, or responding to emergency situations, these DHS professionals require technology that can keep up with mission demands. Rugged laptops and 2-in-1 tablets provide the durability, reliability, and advanced features necessary to support CBP operations, ensuring these agents have access to real-time intelligence, secure databases, and efficient communication channels, whether they’re in the field or the office.
Why Use Rugged Devices For CBP Operations?
With more than 1,900 miles along the Mexican border to monitor and a 5,500-mile shared border with Canada, border patrol agents contend with all types of weather — from the extreme heat in the deserts of the Yuma, Arizona, sector to frigid winter temperatures in Montana. Whether patrolling in a vehicle or conducting inspections at ports of entry, CBP agents need rugged devices designed to withstand the demands of the job. CBP can mobilize government applications to the tactical edge of operations, allowing them to accomplish their mission.
Key Features of Rugged Laptops for CBP Staff
Rugged laptops and 2-in-1 tablets provide the durability, security, and advanced technological capabilities needed to enhance border security operations. From real-time intelligence gathering to emergency response coordination, these devices empower agents to work efficiently and effectively in the field. As technology continues to evolve, this law enforcement technology will remain an indispensable asset in safeguarding national security and ensuring the success of CBP operations.
Durability and reliability
Rugged laptops for field work are engineered to meet military-grade specifications (MIL-STD-810) and Ingress Protection (IP) ratings, ensuring they can withstand extreme environments. This level of durability prevents mission disruptions due to hardware failure, allowing CBP agents to remain operational under any circumstances.
Shock and vibration resistance
Whether mounted in vehicles or carried by agents on foot, these rugged devices can withstand drops, shocks, and vibrations without compromising performance.
Long battery life
Field agents often operate in locations without immediate access to power sources. Rugged computers come with extended battery options, allowing uninterrupted use during long shifts. That's what makes TOUGHBOOK the right laptop for field work.
Connectivity anytime, anywhere
Connectivity is crucial to accessing the data needed in any DHS operation. To help ensure border patrol officers have continual coverage and access to critical information, TOUGHBOOK rugged laptops offer reliability and exceptional connectivity through options like an antenna, as well as mobile broadband and Wi-Fi. Integrated GPS also helps enhance navigation and tracking for patrol.
Secure communications
Access to real-time data is crucial for CBP operations. Secure Wi-Fi and cellular connectivity help ensure agents can communicate even in remote areas. And encrypted communications protect sensitive data and ensure secure transmissions between field agents and headquarters.
Safeguard data and devices — while adhering to the DHS Zero Trust Architecture IT standards — by deploying solutions that feature TAA-compliant device components; hardware, firmware and application protection; removable hard drives; fingerprint readers; and insertable and contactless access card readers.
Advanced data processing and identity verification
Border security involves verifying identities, analyzing data, and detecting potential threats in real time. And, given the massive amounts of data involved, rugged devices for Homeland Security personnel require high-performance processes to assist with quick access to data as needed. Rugged laptops support law enforcement through features such as integrated smart card readers and biometric scanners that can quickly enable secure identity verification for travelers and personnel.
Enhanced field inspections and border checkpoints
At border crossings and ports of entry, CBP agents regularly conduct inspections, screen vehicles, and verify documents. Rugged devices streamline these processes by providing on-the-go access to national security databases, enabling rapid scanning of travel documents, and supporting mobile surveillance and body-worn camera integration. These law enforcement technology capabilities can help reduce wait times, improve efficiency, and strengthen Homeland Security operations.
Emergency response and crisis management
It’s not just about border security. DHS is responsible for addressing a wide range of crises and national security challenges. These may include threats of terrorism, cyber attacks, trafficking, infrastructure failures, and natural disasters. In times of crisis, seconds count, necessitating technology that boosts situational awareness, whether it’s coordinating between field agents and command centers or gathering and analyzing intel via drone. Having rugged technology in any climate helps ensure these first responders have the tools they need to assess a situation and take immediate action.
CBP surveillance capability
Situational awareness is also key when patrolling an area or inspecting goods off a cargo ship or at an international airport. High-visibility screens with glove-touch interfaces give CBP agents the ability to track items and people with clear, level views any time of the day or night while connecting and communicating with key personnel in other locations. The addition of technologies such as thermal cameras also can expedite the U.S. border surveillance efforts, help locate missing persons, and improve response times in a national emergency.
Lower overall total cost of ownership
Recent research found that Panasonic TOUGHBOOK has the lowest failure rate in the industry. While rugged laptops and devices may have a higher initial cost compared to consumer-grade laptops, their durability and extended lifespan result in significant cost savings. Their resistance to damage reduces repair and replacement costs, making them a valuable investment for government agencies operating under strict budgets.
Rugged Laptops for Homeland Security's CBP Agents
From routine inspections and fenceline monitoring to identification verification and report analysis, Panasonic TOUGHBOOK can help CBP agents in any environment. The TOUGHBOOK 40 along with the TOUGHBOOK 55 mount in any vehicle allowing teams to coordinate and communicate clearly and efficiently. Rugged 2-in-1 tablets like the TOUGHBOOK G2 and TOUGHBOOK 33 have fully detachable screens for enhanced field agent flexibility.
TOUGHBOOK accessories also can support agent operations. A flashlight camera features integrated OCR, QR, and barcode scanning for efficient inspections and reporting. Fingerprint readers can help move the lines when verifying identities at a port of entry. And screen protectors provide privacy of sensitive data.
Panasonic Connect also offers the support DHS personnel needs to get those devices quickly employed and ready to go. Learn more about TOUGHBOOK hardware, software, and Professional Services that can transform the efficiency and reliability border patrol agents require while supporting mission-critical activities.
