Standard vs High-Security Fencing – What’s the Difference?

When it comes to protecting people, property, and assets, not all fencing is created equal. Standard security fencing is designed to provide a reliable barrier for everyday, low-risk environments, while high-security fencing is built to withstand determined attacks in high-risk areas. The difference lies in the materials, construction, and security features that each type of fence offers.

What Is Standard Security Fencing?

Standard security fencing is designed to deter unauthorised access rather than stop a determined intruder. Typically made from mild steel or similar materials, this type of fencing provides a clear boundary and a first level of protection without the specialist features of higher-grade systems.

At Alexandra Security, we offer a wide range of standard fencing solutions designed for residential, light commercial, and public spaces:

• Protek 1000 – A versatile general-purpose mesh fence, ideal for schools, car parks, and recreational areas.
• Protek Privacy – Adds extra screening to boundaries, creating a secure perimeter with reduced visibility.
• Protek 868 Clamp – A robust twin-wire mesh option that balances strength with cost-effectiveness.
• Protek 656 Clip – Lighter than the 868, perfect for areas needing good security at a lower price point.

These options provide durability and visual security while remaining accessible and affordable for everyday applications.

Typical Uses of Standard Security Fencing

Standard security fencing is commonly used for:

• Residential gardens and boundaries
• School playgrounds and sports facilities
• Retail parks and business estates
• Car parks and recreational spaces
• Low-risk commercial properties

Its role is to prevent opportunistic access, protect people and property, and clearly define boundaries without the need for extreme anti-intrusion measures.

What Is High-Security Fencing

High-security fencing is engineered to resist deliberate attack, making it suitable for critical infrastructure and sites with high-value assets. Alexandra Security provides high-security solutions that meet rigorous testing standards, including:

• Protek Elite Defender High Security Mesh Fencing – Fully LPCB LPS 1175 B3 (SR2) certified, it delivers proven resistance against forced entry while remaining fast and practical to install.
• Protek 358 Elite SR1 Rated Prison Mesh Fencing – Featuring ultra-narrow mesh apertures for anti-climb performance, often used around prisons and sensitive utilities.
• Protek 868 Elite SR1 Rated Twin Wire Mesh Fencing – Combines strength, durability, and LPS 1175-accredited performance for facilities requiring tested perimeter security.

These systems are designed to prioritise strength and tamper-proof fixtures that resist attempts with tools and force.

Typical Uses of High-Security Fencing

High-security fencing is typically found at:

• Prisons and correctional facilities
• Airports and transport hubs
• Utility sites and power stations
• Data centres and server farms
• Military sites and government facilities
• Large-scale solar farms and renewable energy sites

These systems are often compliance-driven – meeting stringent standards to satisfy insurers, regulators, and security specifications. In these spaces, the cost of a breach is simply too high to risk anything less than maximum protection.

Standard vs High-Security Fencing: The Big Differences

So, what exactly sets the two apart?

• Material strength – Standard fencing is often made from mild steel, while high-security fencing uses reinforced or high-tensile steel.
• Mesh aperture – High-security systems feature tight apertures (such as 358 mesh) to prevent climbing and cutting.
• Height and overhangs – Taller fences with optional cranked or outward overhangs are common in high-security installations.
• Tamper-proof fixings – High-security fences use secure, vandal-resistant fixings that cannot be easily removed.
• Testing and certification – Products such as SR1-rated fencing undergo third-party testing to prove their resistance against forced entry.

What’s The Difference Between SR1 vs SR2 Fencing?

Basically, security fencing is often classified under SR (Security Rating) levels, and these are two of the most common. SR1 fencing resists basic tools for a set period, while SR2 withstands more advanced tools and techniques.

• SR1 fencing protects against basic hand tools, suitable for most commercial and infrastructure sites.
• SR2 fencing offers stronger resistance, capable of withstanding more sustained attacks with heavier tools.

Note: For a deeper look at security ratings and what they mean, explore our Fencing Security Ratings guide.

Do I Need Standard or High-Security Fencing?

Choosing between standard and high-security fencing comes down to the level of risk and the assets you are protecting. If you simply need to mark a boundary, keep out trespassers, or secure a low-risk site, standard fencing will likely do the job. However, if you’re protecting high-value assets, critical operations, or areas with legal compliance requirements, you need high-security fencing.

If you’re unsure, Alexandra Security can help you assess your site requirements and recommend the most suitable perimeter security solution for your site.

High-Security Fencing From Alexandra in Action

Alexandra Security has supplied and installed high-security systems across the UK since 1986. Some examples of our high-security fencing projects include:

These projects (which you can check out in greater detail through the links) highlight how tailored security solutions can protect everything from energy to industry.

Why Choose Alexandra Security?

Since 1986, Alexandra has been a trusted supplier of perimeter safety and security systems. We’re proud to be recognised nationally for quality, reliability, and fast, efficient service. Every system we supply is manufactured in full accordance with BS EN ISO 9001, ensuring consistent performance and peace of mind for all our clients.

Whether you need everyday protection or certified high-security fencing, our team will help you find the right solution.

Explore our full range of mesh security fencing solutions or get in touch with our team today at 01892 833 001 for expert advice.