Factors To Consider Before You Buy An Access Control System

By Hai Eidson


With an access control system installed in your building or facility, you should be able to properly manage the entry and exits points in it. It can also enable you to control who gains access to specific areas and prevent any unauthorized entry. Not only is it perfect for improving the security of the building or facility but also its privacy as well.

As compared to traditional lock and key system, computerized access control technology is more advanced in terms of keeping restricted areas secure. Since there are no physical keys to be used, locks can't be compromised because of key duplication. And since entry is usually granted by providing a password, passphrase, or PIN, it completely eliminates the problem of having lost keys.

One of the more popular type of technology used in an access control system is biometrics. It is labeled as so because it makes use of distinct features of a person such the fingerprint and retina. And since everyone will have unique patterns for these, it is an accurate way of ensuring that only authorized people are given access to certain areas in the building or facility.

An access control system also helps to minimize the use of additional manpower for guarding entrance and exit points in buildings or facilities. It can also be used to track the work hours and activities of employees more accurately. The likelihood of fraud can significantly be minimized this way since there is less manual work involved.

An access control system is primarily made up with three main components and they are the physical barrier, the access controller/reader, and the credentials. It is the physical barrier that actually prevents access to a specific area or entry/exit point. Many facilities today have doors with electronic locks while main entry/exit points are secured with a turnstile, all of which are managed by the access controller.

Access controllers are usually either stand-alone or network-based systems. Stand-alone units have all the data and necessary components to be used by itself, while networked-based systems have a user database so that the credentials of people can be checked accordingly. The credentials used to gain access can be a keycard, key fob, password/passphrase, or unique personal features such as fingerprints.

There are also some possible security risks that an access control system can encounter and one of them is tailgating. This is when an intruder follows authorized personnel in entering a restricted area. Other risks include door levering, lock spoofing, and hacking. It is important to take these risks into consideration and ensure that they are properly and timely addressed.

A good way of leveling up the security of your establishment or facility is by combining your access control system with an advanced surveillance system. This way you'll also be able to keep a close watch over all your operations and not have to worry about whether or not your personnel are doing their job properly or not. It's a critical area of internal control you should not overlook.




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