Electronic Access Control Systems: Enhancing Security for Business

Are you a building or project manager struggling with securing your premises? Maybe you're finding that building security is becoming a higher priority, and the term "electronic access control systems" seems overwhelming. Yet, the promise of increased peace of mind is appealing.

Reports show that nearly 28% of businesses have experienced an increase in physical security incidents. This makes electronic access control systems crucial for managing building and site security, as well as an access solution.

Table of Contents:

• Understanding Electronic Access Control Systems
• • How It Works - An Overview
  • Various Credentials Available in the Market Today
• The Strategic Advantages of Electronic Access
  • Managing Lost or Stolen Keys Becomes Easier
  • Time and Role-Based Control Improves Security
  • Remote Functionality Simplifies Security Management
  • Multi-Factor Authentication Adds Protection Layers
  • Audit Trails Track and Allow Monitoring of Events
• Key Components
  • Choosing the Right Setup Type
  • Real World Use-Case Examples
• Essential Considerations When Selecting a System
  • Compatibility, Existing Setup Considerations, and Choosing Your System
  • Installation Challenges
  • Beyond Tech: Importance Of Building Teams Having Right Mindsets Around Compliance
• Conclusion

Understanding Electronic Access Control Systems

Traditional lock-and-key systems have their place. However, they have limitations, particularly in larger facilities and high-risk areas.

Electronic access control systems provide a mix of security and convenience that traditional methods can't match. These systems use electronic locks and credential readers that grant access with a physical or digital key upon verification. These keys include items like key cards, fobs, PIN codes, or smartphones.

How It Works - An Overview

Credentials, such as access cards, are swiped on card readers. These readers then send a "verification needed" signal to an access control panel.

An access control panel is the "brain" of the system. It stores credential data and compares information to an authorized list during verification of modern access.

After checking the user's credentials, it uses an electric current to unlock the door for a set time. Access control technologies do this, usually for a few seconds.

Various Credentials Available in the Market Today

This is where the flexibility of modern access control comes into play.

You're not limited to one type of system; some offer Bluetooth credentials to communicate with access control software. Credential-based systems may allow door opening via phone apps. Other options stick with keypads and access control solutions.

The Strategic Advantages of Electronic Access

Traditional mechanical locks have several drawbacks. Choosing an electronic access control (EAC) system offers numerous benefits. These include stronger authorization and improved tracking of entry and exit.

Mechanical systems leave room for guesswork, without indicating who used a key or when. Electronic systems can address these issues.

Managing Lost or Stolen Keys Becomes Easier

With mechanical keys, losing one can create a security risk. Electronic access systems make it easy to quickly deactivate a lost card or fob.

Many modern access control systems include mobile apps that allow administrators to revoke access if a smartphone is lost or stolen. These management systems also provide better oversight and control over building security.

Time and Role-Based Control Improves Security

Mechanical keys grant access to anyone holding them unless there are specific lock sets. You can't see who used the key or when it was used, but using an electronic door will help.

Electronic control systems offer detailed access tied to roles or individuals. Building access control can easily be tracked using these systems.

Remote Functionality Simplifies Security Management

Systems like Kisi offer intrusion detection options. Electronic access provides greater flexibility than classic mechanical systems.

Building security operators can grant site access from a security room. This feature does not compromise safety.

Multi-Factor Authentication Adds Protection Layers

Systems using keys grant access based on possession. Stolen keys could pose a vulnerability unless cameras record entries.

Electronic systems address multi-factor access, like two-factor authentication (2FA). Examples include scanning a fingerprint, typing a PIN, and clicking in an app using biometric readers.

Audit Trails Track and Allow Monitoring of Events

Mechanical key systems make it hard to detect unauthorized access unless someone is caught. There's no record of who, what, or when someone gains entry with a copied key.

Building EAC systems record facility access attempts, and creating audit logs for easier monitoring. For regulated industries, EAC meets the compliance requirements of agencies like ISO 27001 and helps with license plate recording for automobiles.

Key Components

Credentials transmit data to a control panel via reader scanning. Electronic locks are needed for high-traffic areas to better manage access events.

Four components are essential for these systems in commercial settings:

• Credentials
• Readers
• Access Control Panels
• Electric Locks

Choosing the Right Setup Type

Different locations need specific tools for windows, interior rooms, and perimeter barriers. Selecting the appropriate technology is crucial for meeting safety needs, along with the proper software solutions.

Real World Use-Case Examples

Building managers can explore the "fit" of specific control access systems. Reviewing their technology is an important first step for any modern electronic access control.

High-Risk Office Setting Example: Facial Recognition Systems

Suppose you manage security for a bank and want to restrict access to key team members. In this situation, facial scans are used as credentials.

If the face matches, credentials proceed for control panel checks. These modern access control systems provide security advantages that mechanical systems can not offer.

Time And Usage Example - Fitness Facilities Access

As a manager of a gym, you manage all access, including membership levels. Suppose a new policy limits members to morning access only.

Platinum and gold members have unlimited visits, while silver members can enter on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday during open hours. Staff set "morning hours any day" privileges for platinum users.

Fitness staff use software to limit building entry for silver memberships. The system can set up round-the-clock entry for platinum members, demonstrating the flexibility of door access systems.

Essential Considerations When Selecting a System

Do you oversee safety and operations in large buildings? These tasks involve controlling facility entry and safety, needing thorough evaluation. It's more than just choosing credentials or readers; compliance is also involved with electronic door access.

Here are factors for building staff to consider.

Compatibility, Existing Setup Considerations, and Choosing Your System

Before installation, staff should assess the current facility setup first. They should keep the future in mind as well for scalability down the road.

Assess office sizes and existing security policies. Consider the budget and existing infrastructure. Choosing technology that integrates with current hardware and processes simplifies the process with electronic locks. Don't get locked into a proprietary system, it will hurt your flexibility with vendor selection in the future.

Installation Challenges

Cloud-based systems reduce physical setup since vendors handle the installation. On-premise hardware requires cabling if it's not available for alarm lock setups.

Beyond Tech: Importance Of Building Teams Having Right Mindsets Around Compliance

Beyond administrative tasks, like integrating EAC solutions or understanding technical requirements, team factors are crucial. Access control technology improves things, but people and planning matter, along with access management. Security goes beyond the chosen technical tool.

Training team mindset is critical. Visitor management should be kept in mind to monitor access properly.

Conclusion

Security is central to daily operations for building and project managers, driving the need for valuable solutions. As sites expand, securing larger premises requires managers to think about implementing electronic access control systems, such as an alarm lock setup for emergencies.

There are clear use cases highlighting the options. Reviewing these examples helps to understand the potential of these control technologies. Modern electronic access control offers key benefits to improve security.

Enhance your business security with cutting-edge electronic access control systems. Ready to improve safety, efficiency, and peace of mind? Contact us today for a free consultation and discover the best access control solutions tailored to your needs.