How Access Control Technology Improves Security

Access control technology tracks when users enter and leave rooms. This data can be used to monitor staff and visitors, log incidents, and monitor fire safety.

This method allows administrators or resource owners to set policies that dictate the level at which they want to permit users to access a system, data, or asset. This decentralizes security decisions but can also introduce vulnerabilities.

Electronic

Access control systems can be an essential component of property security, allowing for a high level of protection and enhanced security. It works by enabling or restricting entry through an electronic lock mechanism activated or deactivated via credentials — key cards, fobs, or even smartphones.

When choosing access control systems, look for one that can scale as your business grows. This includes adding more doors or employees without requiring new hardware. Also, assess whether or not the system provides a reporting interface that can help with time and attendance tracking.

The technology behind complete access control can be as simple or advanced as you want, with cloud-based solutions gaining popularity thanks to their ease of use. For example, a property with several office locations can manage its entire network from the same platform, ensuring consistency in service and security across multiple locations. Then, they can easily add or delete permissions and monitor activity from any internet-enabled device.

Mechanical

Before electronic innovations, access control technology was mechanical in nature and relied on locking mechanisms to restrict free ingress and egress through doors, gates, or turnstiles. These systems often involve keyed locks and cylinders that are activated or deactivated by a central system, granting entry to people who have permission while denying it to those without the necessary credentials.

Complete access control is typically wired to an online management system that manages permissions, logs, and other vital information. The software may integrate with construction and safety systems like fire alarms or break-in sensors.

While these systems are less advanced than their networked counterparts, they're still crucial for facilities that want to ensure physical security. They can also reduce workplace injury risk by limiting entry to hazardous areas and equipment. They're commonly used in various industries, including government, healthcare, military, business, education, and hospitality. They're also a crucial part of meeting compliance standards.

Standalone

A standalone access control systems is a small unit that attaches to each door you choose to secure. It stores a database of authorized credentials, data logs, and other information that records who goes where, when, and why.

These systems are a good choice for smaller businesses that will not need to add more doors or higher security levels in the future. However, they cannot monitor and make changes remotely from the head-end ACS, which makes them less suitable for more significant sites with high-security needs.

People gain entry to a property by presenting their chosen method of entry, such as an electronic token (keycards, PIN codes, or key fobs), mobile app credentials, or biometric identifiers such as fingerprint scans. If these credentials are lost, they are barred from the system, meaning no other person can enter with them. Modern access control technology also lets people gain entry through a combination of two different access methods, which adds convenience and reduces the risk of losing one of the two.

Networked

Network complete access control involves boosting the security of a corporate network by confirming that users and devices have been granted permission to enter. This helps prevent unauthorized data breaches and improves the user experience by isolating visitors from sensitive business systems.

The different types of NAC solutions vary, but all aim to address common security challenges. Some work in isolation, while others integrate into more extensive solutions, such as identity and access management or intrusion prevention software.

The most common NAC solution focuses on the security status of remote devices or "endpoints." It identifies factors like antivirus software, operating access control technology patches, and firewall settings and determines whether they meet predetermined requirements before allowing access. Non-compliant devices are redirected to a remediation portal or denied network access. NAC can also prevent lateral movement within the network by requiring the device to re-authenticate with every request to change locations. This significantly reduces the risk of an attack exploiting previously undiscovered vulnerabilities, such as ransomware or worms.

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