Blog | Knightscope

How the K5 Robot Patrols Without Human Help

Written by Knightscope | April 15, 2025

When we say Knightscope’s K5 Autonomous Security Robot (ASR) patrols autonomously — we mean it. From navigating complex properties to managing its own battery recharging, the K5 eliminates the need for hands-on oversight by humans. Here’s how.

No software to install

You don’t need to install a single piece of software onsite. Everything runs through the Knightscope Security Operations Center (KSOC): a cybersecure software application – just need a browser and an internet connection. Your team stays in control without the IT headaches.

Route planning is easy—and customizable

To set up patrols, we start with a basic map of your property. You show us the areas you want covered, and our team programs the K5 with precise patrol routes. Want to tweak the schedule or adjust patrol zones later? You can do that anytime in KSOC.

  • Set routes by time of day or day of the week

  • Make adjustments on the fly — no waiting on support

  • Cover high-traffic or high-risk areas more frequently

Self-charging and self-aware

There’s no need for someone to plug in the robot or monitor battery levels. The K5 handles all of that itself:

  • Patrol time: 1 to 1.5 hours per charge (depending on the location)

  • Recharge time: ~30 minutes

  • Fully operational while charging: if possible we like to placing the charging station wherever a guard would normally be stationed

When the K5 needs more power, it automatically returns to its charging station — without human intervention — and picks up where it left off once recharged. It’s built for continuous presence without downtime. If you have a very large location – it can even move from one docking station to another – kind of like the old video game Frogger.

Works around people, not against them

The K5 is equipped with sensors and algorithms to avoid obstacles, reroute itself when needed, and resume patrols without confusion. If a person walks in front of it, it can stop, deliver a spoken message (like “Excuse me”), then safely navigate around them. Same for vehicles.

The bottom line

The K5 doesn’t just reduce workload — it removes entire categories of manual effort. No babysitting. No reboots. No plugging in. It patrols, charges, and navigates like a self-driving car with a security badge. And is also supported by our humans-in-the-loop from our Risk & threat Exposure (RTX) team – we’ve got you covered!

Want to see how it could fit your property? Let’s talk.