The Ultimate Guide to Access Control Systems

An access control permit system allows authorised personnel to a site, building, room, or other secure site. Access data can be sent to a centralised access system and compared to a database of authorised personnel. Electronic access control systems use various different types of systems such as:

Passcodes and Pins

Passcodes and pins are two traditional methods for controlling access to commercial security systems. It employs simple technology and is ideal for businesses that require a small amount of security to be used by multiple people.

Key Cards and Access Badges

This is more common in larger, corporate, higher-tech businesses that have restricted areas and can thus track who enters these areas using individual, unique key cards and access badges.

Fingerprint and Video Verification Systems

The most advanced security system in commercial security is also one of the most expensive. This system ensures that no one within the company can fake the identity of another person to gain access. For example, a criminal wouldn’t be able to enter because they wouldn’t have their fingerprints and facial recognition within the system, making it extremely safe for businesses protecting sensitive information or high-value products.

CCTV Camera

CCTV systems are typically made up of a number of security cameras that are linked to a central digital video recorder (DVR) or computer via cables such as ethernet cables or a Wi-Fi signal. Cameras can have features like:

• Night vision or infrared vision
• Facial recognition or licence plate recognition
• Motion detectors that operate automatically
• Lighting

CCTV images can be transmitted to a remote monitoring facility or accessed on remote devices such as mobile phones, allowing responses such as police or fire service action to be controlled, or in some cases, allowing access and deactivating alarms. Video analytics evaluates video output for recognised movement patterns that may be connected with suspicious behaviour, allowing surveillance to focus on potentially significant occurrences.

What Are Types Of Access Control

Mechanical Technology

Mechanical technology is used to secure an entry point in mechanical access control scenarios. A key is a frequent example of this, and it is often used to open doors within homes.

Electronic access systems

Access points can be secured using electronic access control. To gain entry to these areas, a card, chip, or other fob with the appropriate credentials must be shown to a reader. This will also keep track of who has visited the region and when.

Mechatronic Access Control

To provide additional security, a combination of electrical and mechanical systems can be utilised. In this case, the electronic system first verifies the credentials, and only after that is a key used on the mechanical lock to unlock the door. This type of combination is commonly employed in high-security workplaces, private residential buildings, and server rooms.

Manual Access Control

This type of system works on granting access to people who fit a pre-determined criteria ion. This could be allowing people in to an area because they have a ticket. This is common among low security areas and would not be seen commonly in commercial security.

Why Is Access Control Important For A Business?

There are several reasons why an organisation would need to limit access to its resources, both commercially and residentially: to secure information; to restrict physical access to regions; to guarantee that only authorised people can adjust systems; or to comply with regulations. Without proper access control, companies can be liable for unauthorised personnel entering their buildings and could suffer crimes like burglaries, cyber-attacks, and data breaches.