A Step-by-Step Guide For Access Control System Installation

Whether you're upgrading a legacy system or starting from scratch, installing a new access control system is one of the most effective ways to improve physical security—and streamline daily operations. But without the right plan, even the best technology can fall short.

At Puget Sound Hardware, we specialize in guiding teams like yours—across hospitals, public agencies, corporate campuses, and schools—through smooth, strategic installations. This article walks you through the entire access control installation process so you know what to expect, what to ask for, and how to avoid common pitfalls.

Table of Contents

1. What Is an Access Control System?
2. Planning Your Access Control Installation
3. Choosing the Right Hardware and Software
4. Wiring and Infrastructure Requirements
5. Step-by-Step Installation Process
6. Testing and Commissioning
7. Training Staff and Setting Up Permissions
8. Ongoing Support and Maintenance
9. FAQs

What Is an Access Control System?

An access control system regulates who can go where, and when. From card readers and keypads to mobile credentials and biometric scanners, these systems give you control over every door, gate, or entry point on your property.

The best systems do more than secure doors—they integrate with your video surveillance, alarm systems, and building management software to create a cohesive security ecosystem.

Planning Your Access Control Installation

Before any wires are run or panels are mounted, clear planning is critical. Here's what we recommend during the planning phase:

• Assess your existing infrastructure – Start with a full audit of your current security setup. Document what’s already in place, including mechanical locks, any legacy access control components, and wiring infrastructure. Look for compatibility gaps, power availability, and door conditions. This step often reveals hidden issues that impact cost and timing.
• Map your building and access points – Create a detailed floor plan marking all access points: main entrances, secondary exits, elevators, stairwells, storage rooms, IT closets—anywhere you need to regulate traffic. Label each door by type (interior/exterior, fire-rated, ADA-compliant) and note whether it requires single-direction or bidirectional control.
• Define access levels and schedules – Decide who needs access to which areas and during what hours. For example, cleaning crews may need after-hours access to general areas but not server rooms. A good system should support role-based access templates for efficient onboarding and adjustments.
• Engage stakeholders early – Bring together Facilities, IT, HR, and Security from the beginning. Each department has unique insights: IT handles network integration and compliance, HR manages user credentials and permissions, Security defines threat models, and Facilities oversee door hardware and building flow. Early collaboration prevents scope creep and ensures alignment across the organization.

A professional site survey helps avoid surprises later—especially around power availability, door conditions, or ADA compliance.

Choosing the Right Hardware and Software

You’ll need to match the technology to your environment, usage needs, and security goals.

Common system components include:

• Access control panels – The brains of the system
• Card/fob readers or keypads – For user authentication
• Electric strikes or maglocks – To secure doors
• Credentials – Cards, fobs, PINs, or mobile apps
• Management software – Cloud-based or on-premise systems

We partner with top manufacturers like HES, ASSA Abloy, and Camden Controls to ensure compatibility and reliability.

Wiring and Infrastructure Requirements

Whether you’re installing a single-door system or managing multiple buildings, your cabling needs to support power and data flow to each component.

Key considerations:

• Use low-voltage cabling for readers, door hardware, and REX sensors
• Ensure proper grounding and surge protection
• Plan for network connectivity (PoE if available)
• Coordinate with IT to avoid IP conflicts

At Puget Sound Hardware, we handle all low-voltage cabling in-house, so your installation stays on schedule and under one roof.

Step-by-Step Installation Process

Here’s a simplified breakdown of what our process typically looks like:

1. Site prep and door inspection – We assess each door's condition, verify proper alignment, and confirm it meets ADA and fire code requirements before installation begins.
2. Mounting panels and reader hardware – Control panels and credential readers are installed securely in their designated locations, ensuring optimal placement for both security and user convenience.
3. Running and terminating wires – Low-voltage cables are routed from control panels to each access point, then terminated to connect power, data, and signal components.
4. Installing electric strikes/maglocks – Electronic locking devices are fitted to each door frame and tested for proper latching, egress behavior, and integration with the door system.
5. Configuring software and network settings – We program user roles, access schedules, and network settings, then sync all hardware with the central control system, whether cloud-based or on-premise.
6. Testing door behavior and access events – Each door undergoes full-cycle testing, including lock/unlock actions, credential recognition, and fail-safe/fail-secure scenarios to ensure proper function.

Each door goes through a full test cycle to confirm secure locking, free egress, and proper credential recognition.

Testing and Commissioning

After installation, our team runs a multi-point checklist to ensure your system operates exactly as intended. Thorough testing is essential to confirm that every component—from readers to locking hardware—works in harmony and that your system is prepared to handle real-world scenarios without failure. This includes:

• Credential enrollment testing
• Access schedule validation
• Fail-safe and fail-secure operation checks
• Backup power verification
• ADA compliance reviews

We also document the system for future reference—including wiring maps, credential plans, and administrator access.

Training Staff and Setting Up Permissions

Your system is only as strong as the people who manage it. Comprehensive training ensures that your team not only understands how to operate the system day-to-day but can also respond effectively to emergencies or unusual activity. We provide:

• Hands-on training for system admins
• Custom user guides for your facility
• Credential tier setup (e.g., contractors vs. employees)
• Remote access training (if using cloud-based platforms)

The goal is to make your team confident—not dependent.

Ongoing Support and Maintenance

Access control systems require regular updates and occasional maintenance to stay secure and effective. Our support services include:

• Annual maintenance and health checks
• Firmware/software updates
• Emergency troubleshooting
• Credential management support
• Expansion planning for future doors or buildings

Because we install and maintain everything in-house, you're not stuck chasing third parties for help.

FAQs

Q: How long does access control installation take?
A: It depends on the number of doors and the complexity of your site. A small system might take 1–2 days, while a large campus may require several weeks. We’ll provide a custom project timeline during planning.

Q: Can I keep my existing door hardware?
A: Sometimes, yes. If your current locks and closers are in good shape, we can often retrofit them with electronic components. We’ll assess this during the site survey.

Q: What happens if the power goes out?
A: Most systems include battery backup and fail-safe/fail-secure settings. We’ll program your doors based on your egress and lockdown needs.

Q: Can I manage access remotely?
A: Absolutely. Cloud-based systems allow for remote door control, credential management, and event monitoring from anywhere with an internet connection.

Q: Is mobile credentialing secure?
A: Yes, when configured correctly. Mobile access platforms use encrypted communication and multi-factor options for added security.

Need help planning your next access control installation?

At Puget Sound Hardware, we don’t just install access control systems—we deliver complete peace of mind. From the initial walkthrough to final testing, our experts handle every detail of your installation with care and precision. We also train your team so they feel confident managing the system day to day, and we’re always just a phone call away if questions or issues ever come up. Whether you're upgrading a single door or securing an entire campus, we’re here to make the process smooth, secure, and stress-free. Get in touch today to schedule your free consultation, and let’s build a safer, smarter entry system together.