ACCESS CONTROL SYSTEMS
How to Stay Up-To-Date on Access Control Technology
In an increasingly secure world, businesses must stay up-to-date on the latest access control technology. One way to do this is by subscribing to industry publications and attending industry events.
Access control system consist of a network of interconnected devices that allow users to enter a site through gates, doors, or barriers using identity authentication methods like access cards, mobile apps, PIN codes, fingerprints, and more. The system also provides granular visibility and control over employee movements.
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Hardware
Access control hardware includes the behind-the-scenes internal components that help your complete access control run. This includes everything from the physical barriers that prevent unauthorized entry to the network connections that link all the different parts of your system.
Electrified door hardware locks and unlocks doors when it receives signals from the access control technology. It also connects to a card reader, which bridges the communication between the door and the panel by reading ID credentials like key cards or fobs. Intelligent readers can recognize faces or mobile devices and send that information to the panel to verify identification and permissions.
Some larger systems use a distributed processor, also called a field controller, to decide who gets access while reducing the load on the main computer. The processor can be configured to communicate back to the main system only when necessary, ensuring that your access control systems will continue to function if a connection is lost.
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Software
Access control technology uses special software to manage permissions and provide other features like real-time monitoring and logging. This software can run on a local server or, as with most modern systems, in a hosted cloud environment.
The ACS can often be controlled remotely via an administrator panel. This allows security professionals to update configurations, track changes, and monitor events as they happen.
Customizable access control functionality tailors ACS to the needs of a specific building or complex. For example, if someone enters the building with a keycard, the system can generate an output to activate a strobe light and alert security staff that credentials have been presented.
Complete access control can operate without a central server, instead relying on a distributed processor at each door. These units take the decision-making burden off the main computer, enabling the system to continue to operate in the event of an Internet outage.
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Integrations
Integrating access control systems with other security and business operations systems streamlines operational efficiencies. It also reduces human error by eliminating the need to manually cross-reference systems and giving personnel one interface to learn and use for both hardware and software platforms.
Integrated systems provide a smoother user experience and streamline system updates, training, and daily workflows. For example, integrations with elevator systems such as OTIS and Schindler are standard in commercial office buildings to enable destination dispatch services that reduce wait times and optimize building energy efficiency.
New access control technology integrated with IoT enhances automation by enabling the system to respond to changing conditions in real time. For instance, doors can be locked or unlocked based on occupancy and environmental factors, optimizing security and energy efficiency. Additionally, blockchain technology provides a tamper-proof audit trail, increasing transparency and accountability for all parties. Tying access control systems into a mass notification system is another way to fortify security measures and facilitate effective communication during emergencies or crises.
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Security
Whether it’s subway turnstiles that verify people’s identities or complete access control used in offices and hospitals, access control technologies provide security measures that prevent unauthorized entry. This includes physical security, such as guards at every door, and logical security, like encryption and password protection.
Physical access control technology also protects inventory and helps with asset management, allowing employees to use equipment with the proper credentials. In manufacturing facilities, for instance, this can ensure workers don’t put themselves or others at risk of injury by operating hazardous machinery.
The key to access control systems is the verification process, which happens at the reader device, which can be a traditional keypad or touch screen, card swipe, or even a mobile phone. The information presented to the reader is sent to a central control panel, where the system administrator can create lists of people with permission to enter specific areas. If the presented credential matches one of these, the control panel will transmit a signal to the reader to unlock it.
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