Last Updated on March 26, 2025 by James R. Cole
Security guards are employed across various sectors—residential buildings, private industries, and government properties. Their core responsibility remains the same: to protect people, property, and sensitive information. But how many type of security guard exist?
In general, there are three major types of security guard categories, each designed to fit specific operational needs and environments.
Besides these core categories, many countries organize their security divisions into public security, police, military, law enforcement agencies, and private security services.
In terms of personnel, security roles can range from licensed officers to basic watchmen. Below is a detailed breakdown of the different types of security guards commonly found around the world.
1. Government Contract Security Guard
The government directly employs this type of security guard and authorizes them to carry small arms after they complete proper weapons training. They primarily defend government facilities, employees, and sensitive areas, including;
- Courthouses
- Military facilities
- Police stations
- Nuclear sites
- Other critical infrastructure
Government security guards play a crucial role in national safety and often work under high-risk conditions.
2. In-House Security Guard
Companies or organizations directly hire in-house security guards instead of going through third-party security firms. Although some countries have restricted internal hiring, many businesses still recruit this type of security guard for specific roles.
Common employment areas include:
- Armored transportation
- Banks
- Hospitals and medical centers
- Cruise ships
- Information security sectors
- Hotels and resorts
- Nightclubs (bouncers)
- Museums
3. Private Security Guard
Licensed private security companies employ security personnel and deploy them to protect clients and their properties.
They offer services across various sites and situations, making them highly versatile among the different types of security guards.
These firms assign guards to individuals or organizations based on specific protection needs.
Private security services include:
Unarmed Security Guards:
These guards do not carry weapons and are usually assigned to areas with a low-level threat. More than 80% of the global security workforce falls under this category.
Their tasks often involve:
- Access control
- Patrolling
- Crowd control
- Traffic and parking management
- Searching
- Control room operations
2. Armed Security Guards:
These guards carry small weapons, and most come from military or law enforcement backgrounds.
Companies typically deploy armed guards to high-risk sites such as banks, jewelry shops, and locations with high-value assets.
To become an armed guard, candidates must undergo strict background checks and complete government-approved weapons training. Licensing requirements may vary by country or state.
3. Bodyguards (Personal Protection Officers):
Bodyguards offer close protection to VIPs like politicians, business leaders, or celebrities. This type of security guard is highly trained in defensive techniques, situational awareness, and firearms.
4. Video Surveillance Operators:
These operators are trained in CCTV monitoring and are responsible for analyzing video feeds to detect suspicious activities. They often work in tandem with on-site security teams to provide an added layer of security.
Conclusion
Understanding how many type of security guard exist helps organizations choose the right protection based on their risk level and operational needs.
While the three primary types of security guard—government contract, in-house, and private—form the foundation, there are many sub-categories with specialized roles.
Private security companies offer flexible services, and the responsibilities of each role are customized based on the site’s requirements.
Whether it’s managing crowds, protecting assets, or monitoring surveillance footage, the different types of security guards are essential for maintaining safety and order in both the public and private sectors.
