Enhancing Security with Commercial Access Control Systems

Many building managers might feel overwhelmed when they think through security. It is common to think about commercial access control systems, but some might get cold feet when seeing the price tag.

It's understandable to feel this way; cost is certainly a factor. But, did you know that property crimes caused companies to lose a staggering $17.2 billion? Commercial access control systems help protect organizations from incidents like this, giving buildings peace of mind.

Table of Contents:

• What Goes Into Commercial Access Control Systems?
  • Lock Hardware
  • Management Software Keeps Things Running
• Picking the Right Setup
  • Drawbacks of Wired Commercial Access Systems
  • What About IP-Based Access Systems?
• Access Control Models
  • On-Premise Systems
  • Cloud-Based Control Systems
• Popular Entry Methods
  • Why Commercial Access Control is Essential
  • Enhanced Security: Keeping What Matters Safe
  • Real-Time Tracking and Insights
  • Protecting Your People and Assets
  • Adapting to Changing Needs
  • Convenient Remote Management
  • Integrate for Complete Security
• Choosing Your System Wisely
• Key Factors to Consider When Selecting a Commercial Access Control System
  • Consider Entry Points and Multiple Locations
  • Think About User Volume and Scalability
  • System Reliability and Tech Support
  • Usability and User Experience Matters
  • Find a Vendor You Can Trust
• Budget Wisely
• Conclusion

What Goes Into Commercial Access Control Systems?

Commercial access control systems involve several parts that all work together. This helps manage who can go where within a building or property. Let's start with the basic components.

The control panel is like the brains of the operation. It processes everything happening at each access point and keeps a log. This is really valuable. Door readers, which scan access control credentials, take action based on what the control panel tells them.

Credentials come in many forms. People might get access through key cards, key fobs, mobile apps, or even biometric scans. Having many ways to prove the owner of the credentials means increased flexibility, something commercial building managers tend to appreciate.

Lock Hardware

Then there's the lock hardware. The door locks work with the control panel and readers. This way, they can make sure to lock the door unless someone gives the proper credentials to be granted access.

Modern locks can offer remote and real-time capabilities. These types of capabilities really bring "smart" access control technology. This level of control technology truly enhances security solutions.

Management Software Keeps Things Running

Finally, you have the management software, giving you control over how you manage access control. You decide what happens.

This software is a control hub for handling user permissions and setting rules. It can track activity and send alerts. You can have it on-site or use a cloud-based access control system for remote access, making the process much easier.

Picking the Right Setup

There are several system types to choose from. Each varies in complexity and capabilities, offering some diversity and something for every building or project manager.

Wired systems have a central control panel that directly connects everything. But, there's more that you may be wondering about.

Drawbacks of Wired Commercial Access Systems

While they're secure, wired setups can be limiting. This is because a panel can only support so many access points.

So, if you've got a big building with lots of entrances, you might need several panels. Alternatively, you may not have all access points active with this choice.

What About IP-Based Access Systems?

IP-based systems connect everything through networks like Ethernet or Wi-Fi. The ease and convenience make a lot of sense in most scenarios, and most buildings go this route.

These are much more flexible for adding new access points. Still, being connected to the internet opens them up to potential cyber threats. IP-based commercial control systems have pros and cons, just like anything.

Access Control Models

Choosing the correct system will require choosing the type of model. Consider factors, like users and building roles, so the end user will get a high-quality access system.

Discretionary access gives everyone the same permissions, which is simple but not always ideal. A rule- or role-based system customizes access based on job titles, department, or security needs.

On-Premise Systems

On-premise systems keep everything local, hosted on a server on-site. The access is very controlled because of this.

Making changes requires physically interacting with it. For organizations that require higher security, on-premise systems are very appealing and give that heightened sense of security many people want.

Maintaining and upgrading can be costly, which can deter people looking to use it. Cloud is better for multiple sites, some say.

Cloud-Based Control Systems

Cloud-based access systems operate remotely, connected via the internet. It can save costs over investing in dedicated servers. The ease of it can help people become acclimated more easily.

These systems are also easier to scale and manage from anywhere. They depend on third-party vendors.

A downside? There could be misuse or hacking risk without strong security measures, so that should be factored into decision-making.

Popular Entry Methods

There are many choices in how a building may provide options to their personnel. Key card and key fob systems are commonly used because they can provide so much documentation on building traffic.

Keypads with PIN codes offer another option. They offer different types of security depending on the level you desire. Keypads are useful as one component of a system that uses multiple authentication methods.

Biometric entry uses unique physical traits, like fingerprints. This might seem "techie" but is becoming more widely used and accepted. Biometric access control methods such as facial recognition are also gaining in popularity.

Why Commercial Access Control is Essential

Let's get down to it – access control does so much for a business, especially when it comes to commercial buildings. Keeping these areas safe takes so much. Having great access control can add value in many areas. Access control lets you authorize personnel at your commercial locations.

Automated entries improve traffic flow and reduce wait times and crowding. Automated access control also helps to manage resources that need authorization so employees can remain focused on other jobs.

Enhanced Security: Keeping What Matters Safe

Keeping your building safe is everything. With access control, you only let the authorized personnel in.

This keeps valuable assets and private areas fully secure. The end users will see who went where.

Real-Time Tracking and Insights

Seeing who enters and when provides immediate awareness of access, whether the owner or manager is there physically. A security team will always know what's up.

You can spot any weird activity quickly. Detailed records from your access control solution track movements to help identify problems and prevent things from happening, anywhere in the world.

Protecting Your People and Assets

Commercial building access control systems also protect assets. Access systems help create safer environments.

Limiting access to only authorized people cuts down on potential theft or damage. This is critical to running a successful organization. A strong access control presence acts as a deterrent, creating a higher level of security.

Adapting to Changing Needs

Businesses shift, and plans change. Things happen quickly in modern business so you must make changes in access without being stuck.

Commercial access control provides the flexibility needed to adjust to new employees and change building configurations. A change in access will happen by just pressing a button. Temporary access is a big feature for visitors.

Convenient Remote Management

With cloud systems, managers can control access from any location, not just in the office. Cloud systems take away barriers to make for easy office access control solutions.

This comes in handy when delivery comes after-hours, and access needs to occur. It also provides flexibility for remote employees.

Integrate for Complete Security

Integrating access control with other systems like video surveillance gives you a full picture. This means linking door entry data with camera feeds to document everything that happens. Consider integrating a visitor management system to improve customer experience.

Choosing Your System Wisely

Key Factors to Consider When Selecting a Commercial Access Control System

Choosing an access control system can get tough with the different offerings. First, figure out your specific security demands.

If you are a factory building developing products, security is so crucial. Multi-factor systems make a lot of sense for you. Advanced commercial door hardware may be necessary in high-security environments.

Think through how different places require a variety of needs.

Consider Entry Points and Multiple Locations

How many doors or access areas do you need? Having multiple doors and security needs may require commercial access control systems.

Larger spaces like multi-tenant buildings require bigger systems. Small offices can likely work well with something much more simple.

If you've got more than one location, getting a networked software solution will serve you. This type of system lets you manage things centrally.

Think About User Volume and Scalability

It goes without saying, the more people using the system, the more robust it will have to be. Big companies will see thousands of credentials or more.

A feature of many commercial building access control systems is having support for many users and quick options to make account adjustments. Your access systems must easily adapt as you take on new personnel or contracts.

If it will cost more for something that's easy, it might make more sense for many companies with goals to grow. Investing is worth it if you will need that bigger system later. A solid system that offers an audit trail is critical to running smoothly.

System Reliability and Tech Support

Don’t skip out on thinking through reliability. Having people wait outside can cause frustration to visitors. Make sure any product comes with great documentation or you could have trouble.

Downtime equals issues that create traffic with many moving parts. The best security systems give fast support if problems come up. Reliable systems will send an alert in the event of intrusion detection attempts.

Reliable vendors provide training and tech support. Be certain a provider can address the full system.

Usability and User Experience Matters

How easy is the system to use, from adding people to making changes? Is it simple or does it come with complicated software?

Complicated interfaces and tough setups will increase human error and stress. This could increase security threats. Look for systems with features such as mobile credentials or touchless access to simplify the user experience.

Find a Vendor You Can Trust

Choosing a company with solid experience in commercial security goes without question. Finding an access control expert pays off down the road. They have experience with all of the products out there.

An experienced team has learned how things run from experience. Be certain that you can call on a team who gets your product.

Budget Wisely

No surprise, setting up a robust security system needs an upfront investment. When budgeting, consider many cost drivers for systems and their ongoing support needs. It is wise to determine what your needs are for monitoring services as well.

Going the cheapest route may come with regrets in terms of protection down the line. Your main priority when considering a new commercial building access control system is to keep your employees safe.

Conclusion

Modern commercial access control systems protect organizations from crime and other harm that can occur at businesses. There is nothing more important than keeping everyone and everything safe. Picking the correct vendor is something every owner or manager should spend time considering. The right access control security solution will seamlessly integrate with existing infrastructure.

By being educated with the best knowledge, a quality commercial access control system is very feasible and brings great things. You can get a solution designed to meet your needs.

Don't leave the safety of your business to chance. Whether you're managing a small office or a large commercial building, a robust access control system is an investment that will protect your assets, employees, and visitors. If you're unsure where to start or need expert guidance in selecting the right system for your needs, our team is here to help. Contact us today to learn more about our commercial access control solutions. Let's secure your business the smart way.