Category: Access control system

The term “Access control system” refers to a type of setup that allows or disallows access to a person to a certain facility or area. These are used most commonly to control access, and only allow entry to some individuals – those who are permitted or authorized to enter. Access Control Systems are of various types, which range from the most basic to those that are technologically advanced. The simplest ones have a door lock that lets in only people having a key for entry. The high-tech ones give notifications about events in real-time and can offer support to various reading technology combinations like the biometric & card, pin & card, etc. These are usually of 2 types:

Standalone Door Access Control Systems

These happen to be the simplest types of access control units that can be found today in the market. This kind of access control can be used in just one area and is not associated with networks in similar locations.

For example, a bank ATM situated far from its branch or a home with its entrance having just one access control keypad only lets in cardholders. Typically, standalone keypad access control systems do not feature over 10 access control points. Such points are programmed to separate function and are not joined to a “host” or a central network.

Networked Door Access Control Systems (TCP/IP)

This kind of system means an access control method that includes a single or multiple access points that are joined to a central server or host or are controlled individually. These transfer real-time data about door access. The entire system is in a type of network that makes it simple and convenient for operators to manage from just one area.

Standalone VS Networked Door Access Control Systems

As compared to networked access systems, Standalone access systems usually cost lesser. You can configure network systems and customize them according to your own needs, and monitor them with the help of a PC. Standalone Door Access Control Systems are only used in areas or facilities where there is a need for lower grade security, such as in smaller organizations. On the other hand, networked access systems are only used by bigger organizations that need a higher level of security.

It could be that a facility might use a standalone access system to secure as many as 10 doors. However, the same type of control will be there for the access points. On the other hand, Networked systems may have different security levels for different access doors. You may integrate these with the help of video surveillance systems to get a security package that is more comprehensive.

Types of Standalone Door Access Control Systems

These include:

Stand-Alone Locks

These draw power from the battery, and offer “all-in-one” control of access for a single door. These locks have replaceable internal batteries that can be unlocked with the aid of a proximity card keypad or both used in a combination.

These are advantageous in the sense that you can install them within a few minutes, and operate them quickly. However, these stand-alone locks are not a part of a network that is monitored broadly. But some of these offer readers that are hand-held and can draw the audit trail from the stand-alone lock.

Proximity readers

In the field of commercial access control, these happen to be the most famous option. You can use them with ease. Even when the cards get lost, you can simply deactivate those and have new cards issued. For more security, you may also combine these with photo IDs. Proximity cards are the commonest and may work from 1 – 36 inches from any sensor.

Due to a lack of contact between the reader and the card, stand-alone proximity access control system is extremely reliable and there are only minimal risks of wear and tear. These are also lower in cost.

Key Switches

These offer electronic auditing with the aid of a network while keeping on using a physical key for lock activation.

Keypads

The systems are less costly and are common options for secure access to single doors. These can easily be used but happen to be of reduced security, given that users tend to write the entry code down or “lend” the same to others. Also, these do not offer detailed audit trails until the time you offer unique codes to every person who is authorized an entry.

Biometric systems

These allow access to users based on their physical features, such as retinal scans, handprints or fingerprints. By far, these happen to be the safest access control methods. But these are also quite costly and may also appear invasive to staffs or workers who are forced to continuously keep on wearing them. The earlier models were not so reliable in outdoor situations, which made them unsuitable for exterior security access.

Intercom Systems

These single door access control systems give door access upon an audio door answer.

Web-based Access Control Systems is said to have the necessary technical means, so as to offer remote system management and access. IP (Internet Protocol) is used by such systems to communicate data and signals. The IP access control system can be operated in the form of a wireless solution or as a hardwired platform. Moreover, the physical access control solution that is web-based does allow additional security layer through an auto collection of data related to all events which occur in the system. The security event log can be verified at any point of time and from any place desired, including adjustment of the different settings of the system remotely.

As a matter of fact, the web-enabled access control system can cover all the entry points which are located in any geographical region, allowing the user to control and manage multiple sites simultaneously. Access control management is possible using a reliable platform using the secure network from a single location, to manage the different network entry points

The functioning of IP based access control systems

Both wireless and cable networks are incorporated by web-enabled access control systems to manage locks and readers. The technology termed Power over Ethernet (PoE) uses connections to provide data and power to a connected device using a single cable. This way, it becomes possible to power as well as control security device over a single connection.

There is present a single panel or screen, from where it is possible to manage video surveillance, manage alarms, view identities and facility maps. Also, employee details and photos can be managed and viewed whenever required. Hence, certain employees including visitors can be restricted access to sensitive areas. Access can also be granted to only select people, so as to ensure greater security. Moreover, access levels can be assigned to areas and employees, thereby granting web-based door access control to employees to different areas of the office building by using the proper access level system.

This actually helps the entrepreneur to know and identify the people who enter or leave the premises, the door that is being used, time of entry and exit. The advanced web-enabled physical access system allows the management to know as to where every employee or visitor is present physically at any given time. It also generates alerts in case, any worker or visitor tries to get into unauthorized areas.

Cloud-based vs. Web-based Access Control Systems

It is important to know the difference between them and the benefits offered, so as to make the correct choice. Generally, there are 3 access control system types that can be used in the home or office setting. They are cloud-based, browser-based and Server/PC software based system. The latter is considered to be the oldest technology among the three, where access control systems are concerned. Cloud-based systems developed recently, while the browser or web-enabled apps can be found in the market right from the late 90s.

The IP based access control systems can be operated from any device or browser which interfaces easily with the internal computer network. Usually, the systems support all popular browsers such as Safari, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Internet Explorer, etc. No software installation is required for the same and the access control software smoothly runs on the system controller like a modem. The device can be accessed through the browser. The operator is able to perform the necessary tasks and to adjust settings as needed.

The browser-based access control system has been adopted by a good number of medium and small sized businesses who find it viable and have limited IT employees on their payroll. Hence, they do not need extensive IT maintenance or support. Requiring one-time installation including re-installation during failures, it is stated not to be subscription-based service.

To run efficiently and smoothly cloud-based access control, a secured internet connection will be required. The IP access control system does offer remote access through secure server kept anywhere to the control console. Even during internet shutdowns, the system remains operational. However, there are not available software changes when connectivity is lost.

Hiring a well-established provider

Prior to adopting any access control system type, it is essential to first evaluate the specific needs to enhance building security. It is after proper and careful evaluation that a trustworthy service provider is to be searched for.

But with constant advancement made in security technology including techniques to bypass safety measures, it is necessary to choose a company which has the capability to provide all three authentication forms, like physical credentials like the key fob or card, PIN or password and biometric security including retina or fingerprint scanning. Additional security measures are to be implemented like anti-passback. It means, people eager to enter or exit have to validate their credentials and provide prompt web-based door access control.

A good number of security agencies to make use of the latest mobile phone access control systems to monitor specific regions. Mobile access control is regarded to be the latest innovation in the domain of mobile technology. With access controls from the mobile, people are able to get hold of, view, access, and to manage crucial events simply with the installation of security software. This technology inadvertently is emerging rapidly as a wonderful alternative to using physical access systems, thereby bringing about a new era related to improved management activities.

In today’s fast-paced world, advancement made in the field of technology has managed to substitute manual operations significantly. Nowadays, one can imagine leading a smooth and easy life without using mobile phones. From alarm clocks to establish meeting with clients to taking part in online conferences, etc. smartphones undoubtedly have become part and parcel of human existence, development, and survival. It does offer a plethora of functions to enjoy by individuals and entrepreneurs alike. It can be stated that mobile devices very much are ruling the present world and trying to shape the way how people manage different systems so as to stay connected with others.

1, Smartphone access control systems

Better access can now be derived to secured rooms, buildings and different areas to users through mobile access control, simple with the click of the button on the mobile device, like tablets, smartphones, including wearable devices. Besides improving ease of operation and operational convenience, the system does offer operators with efficient and cost-effective solutions and to effectively manage identification credentials. The mobile-enabled workers do find this type of control system to be highly efficient and also as a potential alternative to using physical cards that are getting outdated very fast.

2, Using mobile access control

Several types of access control systems are available easily in the market, ranging from customized cloud-based control systems that boast of having in numerous high-end features to local systems which are a local server operated. Even though the latter type requires just one-time investment, smartphone access is found to be much more economical and convenient especially for long-term applications. According to the experts, the major smartphone access control variant systems include mobile access credentials, control panel systems, and IP systems.

• IP systems: Small companies and start-ups working with just a few clients and suppliers can find managing tasks to be difficult. But bigger companies dealing with clients in thousands spread all over the globe could probably not be able to achieve success with the local systems. For big businesses, there has been developed cloud-based IP access systems designed especially for their use, thereby enabling them to manage and get better access to critical data in the cloud. Also, have been introduced Bluetooth access control systems making life easier and convenient.
• Control panel systems: They do come with several applications and are installed locally mostly, thereby allowing users to generate reports and manage credentials. Such computerized systems are installed at a workplace and are designed to get integrated within security systems. This, in turn, ensures workforce safety.
• Mobile access credentials: Control office space access in a majority of the well-established organizations can be a tough prospect. For such companies, mobile access credentials are likely to be seen as a boon, which enables operators to keep proper track of employee/visitor entry and exit. Credentials of mobile access are considered to be a secure way to get access to any specific location or room in the building by the license key holders. Few common benefits derived from such systems include improved security, ease of operation, and remote control features from any specific location. With just a few clicks on the phone, the mobile-enabled employees are able to enter in the specific physical location. Accesses to entry and exit are managed usually within the cloud and the mobile credentials are revoked and granted by the administrator.

Mobile phone access control systems are found to be more beneficial by both big and small companies across the globe. With time, such systems are increasingly becoming an indefensible portion of the security systems used by corporate companies. Mobile access control, when compared to physical documents and printed identity cards, does provide both administrators and workers with more convenient experience.

3, Difference between smartphone access control systems and regular physical access control system

The truth is that the access control system does have one single purpose, which is to allow or revoke entry and exit to locations or resources within the building or office premises. They can be classified broadly into two segments namely, smartphone access and physical access. The latter restricts access to areas, rooms and valuable assets, while the former limits access to digital files, classified data, and computer networks. In today’s highly competitive world, it has become all the more important and crucial for organizations to safeguard discreet information as much as possible.

These days, organizations are using advanced modern technology to enjoy better and enhanced productivity. The introduction of Cloud computing has actually made access control much simpler, effective, easy and also inexpensive. Cloud access control system solutions offered by the reputed access control providers only are increasing in demand, thereby making the lives of both integrators and end users easier and effortless. The reputed and well-established access control providers are either introducing or already are providing cloud solutions to those seeking it. The popularity of cloud-enabled access control system is increasing with each passing day, due to its economic benefits, efficiency, and simplicity that is enjoyed by security integrators and end users.

Need for cloud access control

The security industry as a whole is considered to be a conservative group when anything new to be introduced is concerned. This industry, however, has managed to catch up to technological innovations lately and enjoying implementing it wherever possible. It is possible to install more quickly and easily the new security system when compared to the traditional model. Moreover, the integrator is likely to need less on-site time including fewer resources from the IT staff due to not having on-premise servers. Hence, the user is likely to witness reduced installation related upfront expenses.

It can be stated that cloud access control does provide the user with the capability to operate the system as well as get quick upgrades, not having to bother about IT compatibility, connectivity and servers. All this is possible by downloading a mobile app on the smartphone, thereby making it easier to manage, navigate and use. This is achieved without actually creating any expensive infrastructure. At the same time, the security industry has started to accept a wide range of cloud-based products available in the market.

Enjoying the benefits

According to the experts, people are increasingly becoming more comfortable with using cloud-based solutions. They are implementing it to enhance their personal lives such as photo management and storage and music. Cloud-based access control similar to such solutions does offer user-friendly, low maintenance and affordable access control solutions. The experts also conclude that the growth rate of these cloud-enabled systems is likely to be around 9.6% when compared to a CAGR on-premise system that is around 4.2%. Cloud-based solutions indeed are assisting customers, both homeowners and entrepreneurs alike to be more efficient and stay connected.

Also, are present benefits on the integrator and dealer side to using cloud-based door access control system. This is noticed as improved RMR (recurring monthly revenue). Dealers installing this system are able to witness easy to interact with the other value-added services. Cloud tends to simply system configuration changes and data of all in-house installed software.

Video and Cloud access delivered everywhere

There has been launched several video and access control management platform which is cloud based to deliver control at any point of time, from any device and from any place. The software also does allow video playback and live view, get access to alarms along with video evidence, access control reports, including real-time mustering. This is to make sure that all employees are fully safe during emergency situations. The security managers are sure to find the product to be integral to their overall success. This is all the more beneficial to mid-sized and small companies, where it becomes necessary to centralize security management with easy to use interface which is accessible remotely.

Turnkey solution

Several editions have been introduced in the market, which can be termed to be turnkey access control system making it easier for maintenance and deployment. The edition does a good job to eradicate the need for purchasing and installation of on-premise servers, as well as streamline effective maintenance. This in turn, allows corporate IT employees to focus on their critical business projects. The system also provides customers with the flexibility to get their system usage adjusted to changing needs. This, in turn, reduces budget requirements for future access control capital expenses. Efficient and quick deployment of access control system becomes easier for customers also, who can now take advantage of automated update notifications.

Visitor management works

There has also been introduced a cloud access control system which can be termed to be policy based identity management platform. It automates workflow so as to streamline the key processes which are otherwise involved to control diverse identities that takes place in the organization. With its implementation, it becomes possible to enhance internal efficiencies of the organization, to satisfy compliance requirements set by the concerned government authorities and to reduce overall operating expenditure.

It can be stated that the carefully researched and well-selected cloud access control system is sure to offer innumerable benefits. They can be remotely managed using the web-enabled PC, smartphone or tablet and from any place, without any trouble.

The latest introduction in the field of access control is the fingerprint access control & time attendance system, which enables tracking and recording of each and every minute, hour and day. According to the experts, people are considered to be the most valuable and precious asset for any organization. So is their time which is equally a valuable resource to fuel up the development of the organization. To enjoy the benefits derived from time attendance policies, it is necessary for each and every organization to implement a biometric device for attendance. Managing people’s timings and attendance is indeed a critical challenge, but basic aspect for any firm.

Need for time attendance access control system

The complexity of attendance and time due to organizational hierarchy, structure as well as disparate operational needs cannot be underestimated. Contacting the reputed and well-established professionals can help to derive the best and highly reliable time attendance access solution that can meet diverse requirements easily and effortless. Besides, it will also provide a wide range of flexibility with regards to attendance policies, report generation, integration, and configuration. The reputed time attendance biometric system can be integrated seamlessly with the 3^rd party payroll system.

To capture entries and exits of users, there are installed hardware devices at the exit and entry points. These devices can be termed to be useful and valuable for all offices and are superlatively pertaining to its design, robust in performance and versatile in functions. They also are designed to support multiple credentials like a fingerprint, RFID card, palm vein, email/SMS notifications and multiple connectivity options to fulfill the time attendance needs of all organization types.

Key benefits of time attendance system

Time attendance access systems are being used at workplaces and are considered to be specially designed systems to perform the task of tracking hour numbers worked by the employee. Previously, the tasks were performed mechanically. However, with advancements being made in the technological field, there has been introduced access control time attendance system to help record working hours. The attendance devices are skillfully used to regulate employee timings in the business institution to monitor their entries and exit timings. Different organizations make use of attendance system, which depends upon the unit size, employee number and affordability factor. Also is present sophisticated and simple attendance system which is used for carrying out desired tasks. Biometric data collection from employees for the purpose of time attendance is regarded to be the latest introduction in the market. Monitoring worker punctuality has become a great necessity to increase the overall productivity of the employees in all working environments. Worker punctuality monitoring will be required due to several issues which might cause unrest at the workplace.

There are readily available fingerprint access control & time attendance system from popular companies. Some effort is being placed to ensure that the best devices when carefully selected can help to maintain employee attendance.

What are the benefits derived from workplace attendance systems?

Biometric attendance machines offering access to employees and recording attendance timings have become popular these days since they offer in numerous benefits. These specialized systems are to be checked out in details to know the basic advantages offered by them.

• Using state of the art and the most innovative and creative technological developments, biometric attendance devices has been using face recognition technology that is considered to be highly efficient and effective.
• A good amount of energy and time is saved through the process. Trying to maintain proper attendance recording system without usage of such devices can become a tough task. Otherwise, there will be required to be employed a good number of manpower to perform a similar task. The advanced attendance devices can complete similar tasks within minutes and without requiring too many staffs to work on it.
• The access control time attendance system does play a crucial role to control time theft which is generally noticed among employees, thus decreasing productivity.
• Using these electronic attendance systems, it is possible to generate automated reports effortlessly. It also provides the facility to offer special notices to employees found to be frequent absentees, errors associated with their attendance and late sign-ins.
• Employee payroll generation is now possible with great speed and precision with the successful integration of attendance devices with the payroll system. This is definitely one of the major benefits to be derived by installing such advance attendance systems in the workplace setting.
• Optimization of employee punctuality becomes possible along with business efficiency. Attendance devices have the ability to ensure that employees adhere to working hours, thereby increasing indirectly business efficiency and productivity.
• More flexibility is offered by this process to those taking care of the company’s payroll. Employee absence in the documentation and accounts section is not likely to cause any significant problem with the company’s payroll structure.

Therefore, time attendance biometric system can be stated to be among the best available access control systems which should be installed without any delay at the workplace.

Whether it is a home, office or some other type of establishment, security happens to be a major concern. With a growth in technologies, crime is also growing alarmingly and it is not uncommon to find cases of burglaries, theft, intrusion, trespassing, terrorism etc happening more now than ever before. New technologies are coming in to combat these activities. These types of situations can be solved only with Biometric Access Control Systems. Find out about biometric access control systems for doors and how these can benefit residential, commercial or industrial establishment owners.

1, What is Biometrics Door Access Control Systems?

Biometrics Door Access Control Systems is the latest technology that depends on the features of humans. This is the ultimate process of identification and is executed on the basis of actual features. For the purpose of identification, various human features can be used. These include:

• DNA
• Voice
• Signature
• The retina of the eyes
• Keystroke

Until a few years ago, this type of system was only the stuff of dreams or James Bond movies or in the homes of the rich and the well-heeled. However, these are now well within the reach of the public. Many organizations, private or public, have begun to use these systems to restrict access to facilities.

Whether it comes to a basic access control system such as one that involves punching a password in, or high-tech biometric systems scanning and allowing the entry of specific individuals, there are plenty of benefits to using these types of security systems. Like fingerprint door access system, and fingerprint access control & time attendance system,

2, What are the Advantages of biometric access control solutions?

Biometric systems gather and store data so as to use the same to verify personal identity. Some of the prime advantages of these systems include:

• Monitoring the punch-out and punch-in times
• Time-based security systems control
• Internal access and restriction levels
• Allows restriction and access to multiple exits and entries
• Lowered need for manpower

3, Different Types of Biometric Door Access Control Systems

Some of the main biometric door access control systems include:

Fingerprint biometric card reader

These systems are able to make out the elevated pattern on your own fingers. Fingerprint access control system card readers help encode patterns that they spot in key data points.  These points are very small, which lowers the entire amount of data that is stored. As there is an encoding of information, you cannot use the data for real fingerprint reconstruction. Some readers are able to read only fingerprints. Some others are multi-biometric and can read finger vein patterns as well as fingerprints. Some read fingerprints as well as offer facial recognition. You can also find multi-modal readers that can heighten reliability but comes at an expense that is much lower than standard fingerprint readers.

Fingerprint-Access-Control-System

These are a combination of Biometrics Identification / Recognition technologies and make use of a lock and capture system for controlling entry to particular data. A person, to get entry to the biometric security system, will have to submit unique traits or characteristics that would be matched to a system database. The locking system, in case of a match, will offer users with access to the data. A fingerprint door access system will get activated and the data of users, who were given access, is recorded.

Finger Vein

It records pictures of the vein patterns existing under the finger’s surface. The pattern of the vascular tissue, in such cases, is spotted with a near-infrared LED. The hemoglobin in blood is detected by the system, offering a prominent pattern.

Multi-Biometric Readers

These can read much-varied biometrics. For instance, these can record finger vein and/or fingerprint, or facial plus fingerprint recognition. Such readers may also use pin numbers and RFID credentials for higher multiple authentications.

You may also find biometric facial recognition systems that are able to spot people in crowds. Such kinds of systems can work very fast and can enhance accuracy.

Console Management Station Software

This is a facial management software program that can run on Windows OS PCs, and let people get alerts, regulate the system on a real-time basis and manage the database of the system. With just one station, many biometric stations can be managed.

Face recognition access control system

The newest facial recognition systems also called face recognition access control & attendance system, happen to be units that are self-contained and can directly attach to the network. Such IP Facial readers can be installed extremely easily. These can connect to the network, followed by identifying the face of an individual from a previously recorded template. Such integrated units have all the smart technologies that allow door control as well as enrolment. These capture coded data instead of a real image of an individual.

Keep in mind that facial recognition systems may even be used for detecting an individual in a crowd. A face recognition door access system is a varied system that makes use of varied technology instead of a biometric door reader.

It is essential for business establishments to have an access control system, which can keep workers as well as clients and customers safe. It is sometimes also needed in buildings as per government contracts. It also makes it easier for establishment owners to manage, as there are no concerns about replacing or losing keys, worrying about not getting keys back from workers, etc. Find out what is a building access control system for business.

What is a Business Building Access Control System?

Building access control systems for businesses are door access control systems that are powered by an advanced system, and allow workers to access the insides of facilities, business establishments, offices, research centers and more. Many advanced systems can issue reports about the activities or movements of workers. These can report further about building security, alarm details, open and close hours for business establishments and more. Many of the advanced systems can prepare reports that are published through smartphone or email, to allow convenient access while on the move.

These authorize workers to move in and out of different areas of business establishments, and can also help keep out people. You may get simple and small things such as a keypad for protecting doors. You can also find larger systems with a network of systems that connect more than one building, also including the gates of parking lots with exits and entries, as well as many security levels for businesses.

Types of Access Control Technologies

These apartment building access control systems have various types of technologies, which include biometric technology that can detect people with fingerprints, retinal scans, etc. These are unique and duplicating them can be very difficult if not impossible. For tighter security, these often use iris recognition scanning rather than fingerprint scanning.

Smartcard technology is famous as well, particularly on logging systems and door entry systems. These are more flexible as compared to a few other types of access control systems. These are not simply restricted to door access control. Smartcard technology allows safe logins to computers and lets people buy goods without spending any money. Security card happens to be the commonest option and carries the information of every staff member. Thus, you can instantly find out who accessed the building, which department they belong to and the time when they leave the establishment. It may be also assistive while restricting access to some areas of buildings, making access possible for only some staffs. This makes sure that only authorized staff members can get access and can easily be monitored at any moment.

These commercial door access control systems are used in some organizations for time-keeping or time-tracking and may be associated to payroll systems or used for monitoring how dependable suppliers are. More commonly, however, this type of technology is associated with CCTV. It is used more for the purpose of security than to monitor suppliers or staffs.

How to Choose Commercial Access Control Systems?

You need to consider quite a few things in order to make the best choice:

Your business requirements

Before you buy such a system, you have to determine its purpose, the amount of security that you would want in the system, whether you would like to connect it to other systems in your establishment and more.

Types of features

You should also check whether these come with enough features, such as:

• Thumbprinting capabilities
• Motion detectors
• Swipe cards
• Keypads
• Payroll purposes

Size

The size, or how large you would like the access control systems to be, is another important factor that you should consider.

Number of doors

You need to think about how many doors you would like to secure. Keep in mind that not every door in your commercial building needs to be controlled by such a system. You may just prefer to lock the rooms that are less sensitive and hand over the keys to appropriate people. In case you need just one of the doors to be locked, a basic keypad will be good enough. There is always the chance to expand the system in the future, in case you plan beforehand while buying a system.

Ease of setup

Installing such a system can take anywhere between a few days to a few weeks, based on how extensive a system you have. You might need to go through a manual, or text or even video instructions – based on how complicated and extensive your system is. Make sure that you get a system that takes less time to be installed unless your establishment needs a lot of security and you do not mind a complex system.

Ask the right questions

It is recommended that you choose a supplier who can offer appropriate responses to your questions – including the software offered along with the system for security management, the after-sales service, the setup process, etc.

Access Control system is an essential part of the total security system of any premises. They are the electronic system that is controlled through a network to which they have access. They recognize an identity, authenticates it and then finally authorizes the entry of the identity. Thus, it provides complete protection from any trespassing or unwanted people at any business premises. Based on the type of situation and the need of the organization there are different types of access control systems. Some of the most important ones are discussed below.

Different types of access control system

As mentioned every organization has their specific security needs. To cater to that need there are various kinds of access control system available in the industry. In organizations where high security is necessary, there is an access control system like the door controllers, biometric, card readers and others. Each and every access point are controlled by using different types of door access control systems. In order to use the access control system, it is necessary that network security is maintained to the utmost.

Biometric Access Control System

The most common if all access control system is the Biometric access control system. It is mainly used for maintaining time attendance which is captured by using the fingerprints of the employees. Through the software, it can capture, track and record the data that are input by the employees as well as visitors.

In a biometric access control system, the data is captured by fingerprints and not by the card system. This is the most important difference between them and the card access control systems. The basic purpose of use of both is almost the same that is to capture the entry and exit timings. They are also used at different confidential places so that the entry to that place is permitted to a privileged few.

Proximity Access Control System

This is another access control system that is used in more confidential places. Whether used at offices, banks or factory they provide a safer environment. They are installed at any place in such a way that a passerby will not able to see them. The proximity cards are handed over to those who have the privilege to enter the premises. When the cards are near the card reader they can read it and the doors open. The user does not have to swipe the card or use their fingerprints. When the cards come in proximity to the system it gives access.

This type of control system is best for high-security areas where the control system should not be disclosed to the passersby.  It is thus a security system that is quite tough to breach.

Door Access Control Systems

There is a door access control system that is compact, standalone and low cost. They are ready to use and can be installed easily. They are mainly used at different places like the Server room, offices, data centers, airports and others.

Based on the type of building they are protecting they can be linked to a standardized location. Then they are administered from a central location. There are different types of door access control systems. Most common ones use card readers for allowing the passersby to pass through while there are others that are more sophisticated and the entry is granted by an administrator.

Security Access Control System

Apart from authorizing someone to enter a building an access control system is also used for security purposes. Thus, there are various kinds of security access control system which are mainly used for maintaining the security of the place. The systems mainly have sensors which are paled at different locations of the premises, be that a personal home or office. When the sensor senses something it activates the alarm. In turn, the alarm will connect to the automatic dialer for informing about the breach of security.

Some of the common types of security access controls system are closed-circuit TVs, card access systems, infra-red automation and security systems, and others. They can be wired or wireless based on the system that is used in the premises where the system is installed for providing security.

Modern access control systems

Technology is gifting mankind with something or other every other day and thus in an access control system so there are wide innovations. There is something more than card access control systems where one can use their smartphones for gaining access to any room. By using the apps of the security access control system it is possible to allow someone enters the premises even when the owner is far away. There is even cloud-based access control system where the total control can be managed from a central location. These are best for security managers who have to manage the security of multiple locations.

In order to meet the various demand of modern offices and other premises access control systems are of great use. They are the techniques that are used for controlling the passage of an individual to and from any area. The simplest form of access control systems are the locks and keys that had been in use since ages.

With year the access control system has been innovated and have become sophisticated. Now they are more than just a lock and key and now they mainly refer to the electronic card access systems that are computer-based. Instead of the brass key, there are ‘access card’ which opens the locked door! The use of the access control system is not only limited to allowing entrance to any building but they can also be used to check the entry of individuals at any secured places. Those who are authorized to enter and pass the door can use their card reader for getting permitted through a building access control systems.

How does an access control system work?

There are different kinds of access control system and they perform differently. However, the basic structure of functioning of all the access control system is almost the same. In case of door access control systems, the access card should be swiped while in case of a proximity access control system the radio waves will read the cards and allow entry.

The total system in which an access control system works is divided into five phases.

Authorization

When the access control system is installed it considered everybody as a stranger. Through the process of authorization, the strangers are converted into members. For doing that it is necessary to define the company policy. The rights of an employee should be determined and that includes that who will be the employees getting access to which door. Like, the main entrance of the building will be open for all but that is not true for others specific places.

It is necessary that every assignee has been provided a role and there should be role-based access control. It is mainly given to the administrator who can control the roles of every employee.

Authentication

After the authorization process is complete the need of authentication arises. Every time a member wants to pass through the access control system need to authenticate themselves. They must present the door reader be it an access card, a badge or a token. After checking the credential at the token the reader will authenticate the user. Based on this process it will be decided that whether the lock will be opened or not.

The process of authentication is simple. After the system captures the code of the access card, whatever type it is, it matches that with the ones stored. There can be different criteria for this match like there may be a system where employees are permitted to enter the premises at any particular time period. They will not be allowed at any other time apart from that particular time period.

Access

After checking the credentials the time comes when the member will be given access. The access toll must ensure that everyone gets at the right door at the right time.

The first step for getting access is to unlock the door. After the card is validated the member can do that. After the request is done the access is triggered and then the door is unlocked. When the door unlocks different events are tracked. Like, the user who is authenticated is recorded along with the time of authentication. The door opens and then the door closes.

Manage

This is not the usual working of an access control system. This step mainly helps the administrator for controlling the whole thing along with adding new members or removing someone. There can be any problem that can troubleshoot by the administrator. If required when the office premises is enlarged new access points may also be added. This is not for the regular members but for the management who wants to control the whole system according to the policy of the business.

Audit

Again this is another function that is not used regularly but can be very useful. Those access control systems that are used for maintaining the incoming and outgoing time of an employee will help in preparation of the payroll of the company, sometimes the payroll software is also installed along with. Apart from that different data can also be collected.

In order to meet the requirement of the business the whole access control system should be audited. It must be ensured that the access control system is working as it should. It is required to be checked that nothing tampers in the meantime. This control must be done at a regular interval or else the utility of the access control system will reduce.