What Can You Do With Access Control Technology

Access control systems can provide real-time data showing how people move throughout the building. This allows security teams to receive instant alerts about suspicious activity and helps them track visitors.

Depending on the type of system used, credentials may include mobile identities, ID badges, PIN codes, biometrics, or license plate recognition. These methods vary in cost, complexity, and reliability.

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Smart cards

Smart cards offer advanced security for access control technology. Unlike traditional magstripe or proximity cards, these devices contain an integrated circuit chip to process information and carry commands securely.

When paired with a PIN code entered on a keypad, smart cards provide a highly secure way to grant logical access to sensitive areas and information. Complete access control allows building managers to limit logical and physical access to only those that should have it.

Hybrid intelligent cards take it further, offering contact and non-contact functionality through a single chip. These cards enable data exchange with readers even without direct physical contact, making them a popular choice for organizations that require both the security and convenience of proximity cards.

Another benefit of using smart cards is eliminating the need to keep track of multiple passwords and credentials. This can be especially helpful in large buildings or for employees working on various projects.

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Keypads

Keypads are a common way to add entry security in residential and commercial buildings. They can be standalone pin pads or integrated into a more extensive access control system. They feature numeric keys similar to a calculator's keyboard or a touch-tone telephone's push buttons.

Keypad door locks are easy to install, affordable, and a great way to bring basic entry security to previously unsecured areas. Access control technology devices can be paired with biometric readers to offer more advanced features, including remote, centralized management, and two-factor authentication.

The right type of keypad for your facility is essential based on usage requirements. Whether installing keypads for an exterior gate, a climate-controlled building, or an office entrance, a trusted industry expert can help you find the best model to meet your needs. They can also advise you on vendor selection and help you map out a security mix that will provide your tenants with the highest level of protection.

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PIN codes

PIN codes are commonly used in commercial properties to complete access control to buildings and rooms. They can be a cost-effective alternative to RFID cards or proximity readers and are quickly distributed to tenants, staff, and visitors through a secure mobile app. These systems can also be integrated with other security and building technologies to create a converged, multi-layered approach to security.

However, access control technology could be more foolproof. PIN codes can be copied, stolen, or guessed by unauthorized individuals, so choosing an appropriate password that meets your system's requirements and limits the number of possible combinations is essential. A strong password manager is also advisable to help prevent users from accidentally entering the system.

Many commercial access control systems are now managed via a cloud-based platform. This allows operators to streamline daily management processes, develop informed security responses, and ensure all systems work together. This helps to reduce time and labor costs, as well as the cost of deploying and managing physical credentials such as prox cards or swipe card readers.

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Biometrics

Biometrics is an ideal way to combine security with convenience. They eliminate the need for keys and passcodes, making them more secure than traditional options while offering a more user-friendly experience. Biometric systems use advanced algorithms and expansive databases to deliver recognition that's both rapid and accurate.

Fingerprint, facial, and iris scanning are the most common biometric technologies for complete access control. These scanners capture and create a template of a user's unique traits, such as a fingerprint, and then store the data in a database. When users present their data, the system compares it to the stored template and grants or denies access accordingly.

Universities use access control systems to protect research facilities and student residence halls from unauthorized entry. However, the high cost of these technologies may limit their adoption on a campus-wide scale.