Complete guide to biometric access control

Increasing security threats means traditional access control methods are becoming obsolete. 

Today your unique biological features act as your personal security key!

This blog will help you understand how this revolutionary technology works and its benefits. 

Biometric access control systems use advanced technology to verify your identity based on your unique physical characteristics, such as fingerprints, facial recognition, or iris scans, providing unparalleled security and convenience.

Our comprehensive guide unfolds all there is to know about the different types of biometric access control systems, their benefits, and how they can be implemented in your organization.

Let’s start with the basics.

What is biometric access?

Biometric access refers to using unique biological traits (such as fingerprints, voice, or iris patterns) for authentication and identification, allowing authorized entry to systems, facilities, or devices.

It means biometric access ensures that only the registered or intended individual can access secure areas or information.

Biometric traits are unique and difficult to forge, reducing the risks of unauthorized access. Plus, there is no need for passwords, cards, or PINs, which can be lost, forgotten, or stolen.

Biometric access control system:

A biometric access control system is an advanced mechanism that uses biometric authentication (such as facial recognition or fingerprints) to manage entry to restricted spaces or systems.

The primary aim of the access control system is to grant or deny entry. These systems replace traditional authentication methods like passwords or key cards.

When to use a biometric access control system: 

• When high security is needed: Areas with sensitive data or assets require robust access control.
  
• When a high volume of individuals needs to be managed efficiently: Systems like airports and corporate offices benefit from automated biometric controls to reduce waiting times.
  
• When other security methods are insufficient: If passwords or keycards present security gaps, biometrics offer a stronger solution. These biometric access control systems can be used to confine access to the organization as a whole at the entry and exit of data centers or sensitive facilities.
  
• When compliance mandates require it: Some industries, such as healthcare and finance, require strict identity verification for regulatory compliance.

Biometric access control devices:

Fingerprint access control:

If you have decided to implement a biometric door access control system and plan to use a fingerprint access control reader, you will need to choose from the following three types of fingerprint scanners:

• Optical Scanners to capture a 2D image of the fingerprint using light.
• Capacitive Scanners to use electrical signals to detect the ridges and valleys of the fingerprint.
• Ultrasonic Scanners that emit ultrasonic waves to capture 3D fingerprint patterns, providing higher accuracy and security.

A biometric door access control system using fingerprint readers ensures enhanced security by verifying the unique ridge and valley patterns on a person’s fingertip to identify or verify their identity.

These scanners are commonly used in access control, attendance tracking, and personal device authentication.

Some fingerprint access controls support most RFID card standards with a single device, including MIFARE, HID iCLASS, DESFire, and HID Prox, in addition to fingerprint credentials.

Face recognition access control:

The outdoor face recognition reader allows you to store 50,000 face templates and can scan in 0.3 seconds!

The system scans the individual’s face via its camera. It extracts facial features and converts them into a unique biometric template. 

For authentication, the template is compared with stored records. If the match is successful, the terminal grants access or marks attendance.

Users can interact with the 8-inch screen to input credentials, view notifications, or configure settings.

Iris /retina scanning access control:

An iris recognition reader is a biometric device that scans the unique patterns in a person’s iris to authenticate or verify their identity.

The iris, located in the coloured part of the eye, contains distinct patterns that remain stable over time, making it a reliable biometric marker.

Iris patterns are unique to individuals, even between identical twins, making it highly accurate. The best thing is that they are highly ideal for hygienic environments, as users don’t need to touch the device.

It is more spoofed compared to other biometrics like fingerprints.

How Does it Work?

The reader uses an infrared camera to take a high-resolution image of the iris. Then the system identifies the unique patterns in the captured iris image.

These features are converted into a digital template for comparison. The captured iris template is compared with stored records to verify identity.

If the match is successful, the system grants access or completes the intended process.

Voice recognition access control system: 

A voice recognition access control system uses voice patterns to authenticate and grant or deny access to a secured area, system, or service. It matches the user’s voice to pre-registered voiceprints stored in a database.

Users don’t have to carry keys, cards, or remember complex passwords. Their voice becomes the password.

Palm Vein Scanner & Hand Geometry Scanner: 

A palm vein scanner is a biometric device that uses near-infrared light to scan the unique vein patterns in a person’s hand.

Because each person’s vein structure is unique, this data serves as a reliable and secure way to verify identity. The technology works by recognizing the pattern of blood vessels inside the palm..

A hand geometry scanner is similar to a vein scanner but differs in key aspects. Vein scanners use near-infrared light to detect vein patterns beneath the skin, while hand geometry scanners measure the shape and size of the hand, including finger length and palm width.

Vein scanners are completely contactless, whereas hand geometry scanners require the hand to be placed on a surface or guide for measurement

How to Choose a Biometric Access Control System That Delivers?

Step #1: Define needs.

First, identify which biometric access control system best aligns with the organization’s needs. This decision is usually based on several factors, such as the organization’s size, the levels of security required, and the location where the system will be deployed.

Step #2: Choose an appropriate system based on requirements.

There are two main options:

Multi-Factor Biometric with RFID: This combines biometric identification, such as facial recognition, with RFID cards, both increasing security and convenience.

API-Integrated Contactless System: This advanced solution offers features like attendance tracking and body temperature monitoring. Notably, it seamlessly integrates with existing systems via APIs.

Step #3: Evaluate user experience.

An easy experience is vital to adoption. The selected solution must prove intuitive to both administrators and end-users, including employees. Thus, it must avoid complexity at any stage and avoid extensive technical support.

Step #4: Consider budget constraints.

Once a suitable system has been identified, budgetary constraints must be balanced, and the best possible procurement option must be determined.

5 top benefits of biometric access control systems:

• More secure, more reliable.
• No need for key and password administration. 
• Audit trails and accountability.
• Faster access for authorized individuals. 
• Scalable and customizable solutions.

More secure, more reliable:

Biometric access control systems, such as fingerprint entry systems or biometric door entry systems, guarantee high security. A biometric system can uniquely identify any individual.

It is hard to forge or duplicate biometric data like fingerprints since, unlike most fraudulent keycards, they can’t be repainted, and unlike passwords, they are not forgotten so easily.

That way, only the right people can access any critical area in a commercial or residential space.

No need for key and password administration:

Installing biometric access control frees businesses from the tedium of managing physical keys or remembering passwords.

This simplifies operations and reduces the chances of losing keys or forgetting passwords, leading to increased efficiency. 

Fingerprint access control systems make entry automatic, ensuring smooth access and reduced administrative burden.

Audit trails and accountability:

A biometric building access control system tracks intricate logs of all entries, tracing who accessed certain areas and at what time.

The audit feature is crucial for organizations with strict monitoring and compliance requirements where sensitive data needs to be managed.

Faster access to authorized individuals: 

Biometric entry systems also offer fast and convenient access, especially in large-volume commercial biometric access control installations. 

Employees can quickly access rooms using fingerprint or other biometric identification, eliminating the need to search for keys or dig through wallets for access cards. This efficiency enhances productivity and reduces congestion points at the access points.

Scalable and customizable solutions:

Modern access control biometric solutions are not only scalable but also adaptable to various environments, ranging from small offices to the largest corporate buildings.

Moreover, biometric access controls can seamlessly integrate with other systems, such as time management software or security alarms. In addition, custom installations ensure that every biometric control setup aligns precisely with the unique business requirements.

Best access control system in 2024:

The best biometric access control is the one that fits your security needs and verifies identity through unique biological traits like fingerprints, facial features, or iris patterns. 

However, the future of secure perimeter management goes beyond standalone systems. Remote gate control and biometric access systems ensure seamless, efficient, and safe entry and exit management.

How remote gate control works with biometric access systems?

Remote gate access control offers an innovative solution that integrates biometric and remote monitoring technologies.

Operators can remotely manage gate access using real-time unidirectional video and bidirectional audio communication with visitors, ensuring only authorized individuals enter the premises. 

This system eliminates the need for manual intervention, making it particularly useful for high-security sites, commercial properties, and residential communities.

Use case: Biometrics and remote gate control integration.

• Biometric identification (e.g., fingerprint or face recognition) confirms the visitor’s identity.
• The remote operator verifies credentials via live video or audio communication.
• Upon successful identification, the gate is opened remotely based on predefined workflows designed for the organization.
• All entry and exit activities are logged for audit trails, ensuring full accountability.

Conclusion: 

Tired of managing lost keys, forgotten passwords, or unauthorized access? Biometric access control is your solution. It’s secure, fast, and almost impossible to forge.

Here’s a pro tip: Combine biometrics with multi-factor authentication for an extra layer of security—perfect for high-risk areas. 

With biometric systems in place, say goodbye to entry headaches and hello to peace of mind. Ready to upgrade?

Contact us today for a customized security solution for your business!!