What Is Access Control?
Access control is a security measure that regulates access to places, networks, or systems, whether physically or virtually, and requires the correct credentials for authentication.
Virtual access control systems are limited to connecting to computer networks and data, using passwords and PINs as secure authentication methods.
On the other hand, physical access control systems regulate who enters a specific location or area at a specific time, utilizing secure authentication methods like ID cards or biometric recognition for authorization.
What Are Access Control Systems?
Physical access control systems include gates, doors, or barriers that can be unlocked using identity authentication methods such as RFID access cards, PIN codes, facial recognition, fingerprints, or smartphones to grant access to a building or designated area. This technology can also provide data to track how the building or site is used, such as frequency and time usage patterns.
What Are the Benefits of Access Control Systems?
Access control systems help protect employees and monitor and regulate who can access the building or area. Key benefits include:
1. Ease of Access for Employees
Access control systems give you full control over who can access certain areas or regions. Once authorized, employees can access all areas they need for their job using an ID card or entering a PIN. This makes it easy for employees to access doors, gates, barriers, or designated paths.
2. No Need for Traditional Keys
Traditional keys come with several disadvantages. For example, restricting access to specific areas requires individual keys. The larger the building, the more areas and individual locks and keys are required for each user. This can lead to confusion about which keys work for what. Access control systems save time, and traditional keys can be easily copied, posing a security issue if an employee leaves the job without returning the keys or if keys are lost or stolen. Electronic access control significantly reduces these problems.
3. Cost Savings
Access control systems save money on locks and security personnel. You no longer need a security guard to verify identity and authorization, as devices can securely and accurately identify individuals. You can also integrate access control systems with third-party systems like lighting and temperature control. Lights can be set to turn on when people are in the room and off when they leave, and room temperatures can be adjusted in unoccupied areas to reduce energy costs.
4. Tracking Who Enters and Exits the Building
Access control systems provide data to track who enters and exits a building or room. This data can be used for attendance management, safety during emergencies, and tracking employees on-site if any issues or crimes are reported.
5. Freedom for Employees
Employees work at varying times, and access control systems allow them to enter whenever needed without waiting for doors to be opened or leaving doors perpetually unlocked, compromising security. This not only enables flexible schedules but also allows monitoring of entry and exit movements without requiring physical presence.
6. Data Leak Protection
Many companies store sensitive information, such as health records, financial records, and client data, on their servers. Access control systems protect this information by restricting access to computer rooms or networks, ensuring only authorized personnel can gain entry.
7. Safe Environment
Access control systems prevent anyone without proper credentials from entering the building, helping maintain safety within the facility. They also enhance safety during emergencies. For instance, in emergencies like a fire requiring quick evacuation, doors with fail-safe locks open even during power outages, allowing everyone to exit without unlocking doors.
8. Reduced Theft Risk
Access control systems allow you to safeguard your assets and equipment effectively. Restrict access so that only trusted individuals can enter. Employees are aware that their entries and exits are tracked, which reduces the likelihood of theft.
Types of Access Control Systems
There are five main types of access control systems:
1. Manual Access Control
This type uses personnel to secure designated access points. For instance, security guards or staff are assigned at various locations like cinemas, theaters, zoos, and parks to determine who can enter based on predefined criteria. This type of control is common in places where it is difficult to obtain prior information about individuals or where identity verification is not necessary.
2. Mechanical Access Control
This involves mechanical technologies to secure access points, such as cylinder locks using keys, commonly used in homes or garages.
3. Electronic Access Control Systems
These systems can be used in buildings or sites requiring advanced security. They require a card, chip, or other access device containing the appropriate credentials. These credentials must be presented to a reader to grant entry, and these systems also record who passed through and when.
Electronic access control systems are divided into two main types:
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Standalone Systems:
Used for individual access points, allowing or denying entry based on local permissions. These systems are not connected by cables, reducing installation requirements and saving time, allowing easy installation in locations where access control might be challenging due to site conditions or existing infrastructure. -
Online Systems:
Used in large sites with high access rates. These systems are connected via cables and operate with access control software on the host system. High-security levels can be achieved using these systems, with real-time messaging between components and the software. They can also seamlessly integrate with various other systems, including alarm systems, elevator controls, and more.
4. Mechatronic Access Control
This type combines electronic and mechanical systems to enhance security. For instance, the electronic system first validates the card or medium used, and after passing this stage, the mechanical key can be used to unlock the lock. This type of control is used in offices with high-security requirements, private residential buildings, and server rooms.
5. Physical Access Control Systems
No matter how strong the lock or access control system is, physical access systems must not be bypassed. Therefore, physical systems should align with security requirements.
Where Are Access Control Systems Used?
Access control systems are used in a variety of places requiring high security and organized entry. These include:
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Hotels
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Shared workspaces
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Multifamily residential units (MDUs)
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Sports facilities and fitness centers
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Medical centers and hospitals
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Nursing homes
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Home security
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Factories and warehouses
How to Choose the Right Access Control Systems
Several factors should be considered when selecting appropriate access control systems, such as functionality, security levels, number of users, types of users, site size, and, of course, the budget.
The cost of purchasing, installing, and maintaining the system should also be considered, as it will be part of your work environment for a long time. It is essential to look ahead to ensure the system continues to meet your needs over the long term.
Key Considerations When Choosing Access Control Systems:
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Ease of Use:
Is the user interface easy to manage? Do users need training to use the system, or is it straightforward? -
Integration with Other Systems:
Can the system integrate with your directory or HR system? Can it integrate with video surveillance systems and other devices used in the facility? -
Hardware Compatibility:
Does the system use third-party devices like cameras and door locks, or does it require proprietary devices? -
Mobile Compatibility:
Is there a mobile app? Does it allow authorized users to make adjustments from anywhere? -
Types of Authentication:
A wide range of authentication options is available, such as entering a PIN on a keypad, ID cards, biometric recognition like facial recognition, fingerprints, voice recognition, and contactless identification using smartphones via NFC, Bluetooth, or QR codes. The most secure systems require two types of authentication, known as "dual authentication." Choose the authentication method that suits your needs and required security level. -
System Scalability:
Can more devices be easily added in the future if needed? -
Software Updates:
How are software updates installed? Are they automatic, or do employees need to intervene to complete them?
Selecting the most suitable access control systems is a critical step in ensuring the safety of your facility and protecting it from unauthorized access.
By understanding your security needs and business requirements, you can determine the system that aligns with the size of your site, number of users, and type of authentication needed.
Ensure the chosen system is not only user-friendly and scalable but also integrates with other systems to maintain efficient workflows.
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