Types of access control system: How to choose?

Feeling frustrated with constantly misplaced keys or unreliable security codes?

There’s a better way to manage access to your home or business. Modern access control systems offer a range of solutions to fit your needs, from keycard entry to fingerprint scanners.

When choosing an access control system consider security level, user numbers, budget, and credential method (keycards, biometrics, etc.). Pick a scalable system and explore integration with alarms or CCTV for a future-proof security solution.

We will also tell you about the various access control systems available, explaining the advantages and disadvantages of each.

With this knowledge, you can confidently select the system that best safeguards your property and provides your desired convenience.

Types of access control: 

These types of access control systems actually help you decide how much access you want to give to your employees to a section of your commercial building, enhancing commercial building security.

You may decide to restrict the access based on their roles in the company e.g seniority or based on whether they are permanent employees or contractors!

Discretionary Access Control (DAC): 

Imagine you’re the boss at a restaurant. You might give the cashier access to the cash register system to process payments, but you wouldn’t give them access to the restaurant’s recipes or bookkeeping software. 

DAC lets you control who can access what on a user-by-user basis. 

This can be especially beneficial for small businesses or environments where access requirements frequently change. Essentially, overly broad access can lead to individuals seeing information they shouldn’t, which is a risk you can avoid.

Role-Based Access Control (RBAC):

Think of it like assigning different keys to different people at a school. Teachers might have keys to all the classrooms, but the janitor might only have a key to the storage closet and the bathroom. 

RBAC makes it simple to manage who can see what because everyone with the same job title gets the same access permissions.

In an office, RBAC works the same way. The accounting team gets a “key” (access permission) to the financial data, like tax files and payroll information.

But the marketing team wouldn’t have that key – they only need access to customer contact information and social media accounts.  

Attribute-Based Access Control System (ABAC):

Imagine you’re the manager at a clothing store. You might give all employees a key to unlock the front door (because they all work there), but only managers would have a key to the cash office (because they have a higher job title).  

ABAC offers an additional layer of detail, which is crucial for businesses requiring stringent control over who can access specific information.

For instance, a sales department employee may be restricted to accessing customer data only during business hours, from a work computer, and solely for customers within their designated region.

What are electronic access control systems:

Keypad access control systems:

These systems require users to enter a personal identification number (PIN) to gain access. Keypad access control systems are a relatively inexpensive and easy-to-use option, but they are not as secure as some other types of systems.

Key fob access control systems:

These systems use key fobs, which are small electronic devices that can be clipped to a keychain or worn on a lanyard.

Key fobs contain a unique code that is read by a reader at the door. Key fob access control systems are more secure than keypad systems, but they can be more expensive.

Proximity card access control systems:

These systems use proximity cards, which are similar to key fobs but do not require physical contact with the reader.

Proximity card access control systems are more convenient than key fob systems, and they can be just as secure.

Biometric access control systems:

These systems use biometric identifiers, such as fingerprints, iris scans, or facial recognition, to identify users.

Biometric access control systems are the most secure type of access control system, but they can be the most expensive.

Mobile access control systems:

These systems use smartphones or other mobile devices to grant access. Mobile access control systems are a convenient option, but they can be less secure than other types of systems.

Smartphone apps provide a convenient and touchless way to control access. Employees can use their smartphones to unlock doors, gates, or barriers, and administrators can manage access permissions remotely. 

Factors to look for while choosing access control:

Assess the number and type of entry points: 

The number and type of entry points you need to secure will significantly impact your access control system choice. Is it just the main entrance, or do you have a sprawling office complex with multiple buildings, floors, and departments?

Perhaps your business includes restricted areas like server rooms, labs, or storage facilities containing sensitive data or expensive equipment. A system that allows for different access levels based on location is crucial. 

For instance, all employees might have access to the main entrance and common areas, while only authorized personnel like IT staff would have access to the server room. 

The level of security required:

The level of security needed will depend on the nature of your business and the type of information or assets you handle.

For businesses dealing with highly sensitive data like financial records, medical information, or intellectual property, a robust access control system is essential.

Biometric scanners like fingerprint readers or iris recognition offer a high level of security, ensuring only authorized personnel can access restricted areas.

Facilities with expensive equipment or inventory, like jewelry stores or electronics retailers, might also benefit from biometric verification to deter theft.

On the other hand, if your business operates in a lower-risk environment, a simpler system might suffice. Retail stores with point-of-sale systems might  use keycard or PIN pad access control to restrict access to cash registers or back office areas.  

Office buildings with shared common areas might implement a basic keycard system for the main entrance, while allowing individual businesses to manage access control within their own office suites.  

Look for a user-friendly system: 

Your employees shouldn’t waste time struggling with a complex access system. Look for a user-friendly system that integrates seamlessly with your existing workflows. Consider a variety of credential options to cater to your team’s preferences. 

For instance, some employees might prefer the convenience of using their smartphones for building access through a dedicated app.

Others might find key fobs or keycards to be more practical for their daily routines. PIN code access offers a simple solution, but make sure the system allows for strong, unique PINs to be created to maintain security.  

A user-friendly system should also offer easy management for adding, removing, or modifying employee access permissions. This ensures your access control system remains efficient as your team grows or personnel roles change.

Is the system scalable? 

Is your business on an upward trajectory? A scalable access control system is essential to keep pace with your growth. Look for a system that can be easily expanded to accommodate new access points, additional buildings, or a growing workforce. 

This ensures your security system stays relevant and effective as your business evolves. A scalable system should also be adaptable to changing security needs.  

For example, the ability to integrate new access control technologies or biometric readers can be crucial for businesses that handle increasingly sensitive data or require stricter access control measures.

Simple to integrate: 

Does your security system work seamlessly with other technologies you already use? It’s important to determine whether your access control system can integrate with existing security cameras and fire alarms.

Integrating these systems can enhance your overall security strategy, enabling comprehensive monitoring of your facility and swift response to any security incidents.

Integrating your access control with alarms and CCTV offers a layered security approach. This lets you visually verify access attempts, trigger alarms for unauthorized entries, and gain a complete picture of security events. It’s a future-proof solution that maximizes security and streamlines monitoring.

Choose The Best Gates For Your Business:

We recommend gates for your organization based on its throughput, required security level, and installation conditions.

The future of access control: 

Multinational organizations are increasingly adopting a modern security solution: remote gate access control. This system replaces traditional methods with an electronic approach, offering greater control and enhanced security.

When a person or vehicle approaches the gate, the system alerts an operator at a remote live monitoring center.

The operator views the visitor through a live camera feed and communicates via two-way audio, following your organization’s established procedures.

These procedures typically include verifying the visitor’s credentials through audio communication and video. Once the visitor is confirmed, the operator grants access and records the interaction for future reference.

This centralized system allows operators to manage access control effectively and maintain the security of your facilities efficiently.

Conclusion: 

No more misplaced keys or unreliable codes! Modern access control systems offer a range of solutions to fit your security needs. This guide explored types of access control system components and factors to consider when choosing a system, from user-friendliness to scalability.

We also reviewed options like keycards and biometrics, highlighting the rise of remote gate access control for enhanced security.

Ready to find the perfect access control solution for your business?  Contact us today for a free consultation!