Which type of control is an armed guard classified as?

An armed guard is classified as a preventative control because their primary function is to prevent unauthorized access, theft, and potential harm before it occurs. By having a visible security presence, an armed guard deters individuals from attempting to engage in illicit activities, thus proactively addressing security threats. This type of control is aimed at reducing or eliminating risks before they manifest into incidents, which is a fundamental aspect of preventative measures in security protocols.