Security is a basic human need. In fact, in Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, security occupies the second level of the pyramid. This just shows how important it is for humans to secure their lives, their loved ones, and their livelihood.
The lock and key are one of mankind’s greatest achievements in the realm of security. It is the best way to control who can and cannot access a property or information. Innovations in security solutions technology have improved on the traditional lock and key, though. Today, commercial access control systems are the most efficient and effective way to protect your commercial property.
Commercial access control systems: what is it?
Secure access control systems are a necessary addition to any commercial establishment. And while it does not mean that you would not need door and window locks, these nifty security solutions add an extra layer of security throughout your entire property.
A controlled access system is a security solution that allows you to select, restrict, and manage who can enter or exit a particular area in your property. Essentially, they are designed to let authorized persons in and keep unauthorized people out; minimizing security risks. This is the first line of defense to help you prevent thieves, intruders, and even employee misconduct.
Choosing the right commercial access control system is vital to your day to day operations. They come in different types and a wide range of features.
Types of commercial access control systems
Access control technology has continually evolved over the years to keep up with the increased security needs of businesses. Many businesses have switched from security guards, mechanical keys, sign-in sheets to electronic controlled access systems using computers and other advanced tech to control and monitor facility access more effectively.
- Electronic Access Control Systems. This type can be used to secure different access points in the property. To be allowed entry, the individual must present a card, a key fob, a chip, or a smartphone with the correct credentials to a reader. They could also key in a password using a keypad. A reader is the device that electronically reads the credentials presented. If the credentials check out, the reader will send a signal, unlocking the door. Card access systems are the most common type of electronic control system.
Electronic access systems can be standalone (used for single or a small number of access points like an electronic door access control system) or IP Networked (wired and connected to a host system and more efficient for tracking, auditing, and user management like a whole office access control system).
- Biometric Access Control Systems. Biometric security solutions read a person’s unique physiological feature in order to verify their identity. The scanner can read the features of a person’s face, fingerprint, retina, etc. The system then matches these features using AI and machine learning to confirm whether or not to give access to an entry point. Biometric access is said to be the future of commercial access control systems although a lot of businesses are investing heavily on it.
- Physical access barriers are still, arguably, the best access control system especially for heavy traffic or vulnerable areas. This access control system can include sensor barriers, turnstiles, security revolving doors, speed gates, security interlocks, etc. Parking access control systems are an example of this.
- Keyscan Access Control Systems. This new innovation is designed to make access control as easy as possible. It identifies all the individuals moving within a controlled area in the facility. It authenticates each individual’s identity, sends the data to the software, and compares the permissions or accesses assigned to that person. It also grants or denies access based on an individual’s credentials. The best part about the keyscan system is that it can lock down a facility, if necessary, and can be hooked up with other security solutions including motion detectors, panic buttons, etc.
The benefits of commercial access control systems
One of the greatest advantages of today’s access control systems is that they can also be “integrated” into a company’s existing IT infrastructure.That means instead of a huge investment in separate hardware and servers to run and monitor the access system, everything is web-based. Security administrators can access, monitor and control the system simply by logging onto any computer with a network or internet connection. However such convenience does not come without its share of challenges
Even a web-based access control system requires ongoing administrative tasks such as adding and deleting users, changing access permissions, providing reports, etc. But since the system can be cloud based and accessed remotely, that also means that it is far more cost effective than it has ever been to assign such tasks to an outside company. When you let qualified professionals handle everything from installing to operating and monitoring your integrated service, you can also be sure that all privacy and homeland security issues are always complied with.
But this may be the best part. While the pros are doing their jobs and ensuring that your premises are secure and your people are safe – you still have access to the system 24/7 anywhere you have an internet connection, not to mention you can receive email alerts, or live video direct to your desktop or smartphone. Which means you receive all the advantages of powerful access to and control of your system without any expensive IT infrastructure or racks full of on-site equipment, while all operation, maintenance, and upgrades are professionally managed over the web by your security provider. That is a proposition that should make any business owner feel a little more secure.
Commercial access control systems minimize the risks in your office or commercial establishment. This is because it allows you to grant or deny access to certain people. This protects your assets, data, and employees.
- Physical Security. Ensuring that only authorized personnel can enter your facility prevents theft, vandalism, and other untoward attacks toward your staff. An access control system that is integrated with alarms, video surveillance, PA system, etc. is also useful for emergencies.
- Data Security. A company’s propriety data is just as valuable as its physical assets. Firewalls and other data security features are also extremely important but they are vulnerable, especially if the attacker can simply waltz in and physically take your hardware. Commercial access control systems protect your sensitive information, computers, smartphones, or file storage devices from being accessed by an attacker.
- Efficient Business Operations. A commercial access control system is not only useful for security. It can also serve to optimize your day to day business operations, drive down costs, and improve productivity. You can:
- Track customer traffic to improve staff scheduling;
- Monitor patterns that affect customer service;
- Track and audit employee attendance and movement;
- Monitor foot traffic for better inventory;
- Grant access remotely, and many more.
How to choose a commercial access control system
Choosing the best access control system can be a daunting task, especially for those who have limited experience with security solutions. The most important thing you must consider when choosing your own commercial access control system is the security solutions provider.
Ideally, you should choose a provider that is reputable and has a significant experience with the type of access control system you want for your business. Ask about:
- Credentials and certifications;
- Previous clients and/or projects;
- Reviews and recommendations of the access control brands and products;
- Project management (including timeframes, insurances, testing, training, etc.)
Securing your commercial property and making sure your staff and customers are safe is a top priority. Making sure you have effective commercial access control systems is vital to protecting your people, your property, and proprietary information. We hope this guide helped you in making the best possible decision about your own commercial access control systems.
How does the access control system work?
Commercial access control systems minimize the risks in your organization or commercial place of business. The entry control system allows you to grant or deny access to certain people. This protects your assets, data, and employees. You can restrict access for an area or the whole building.
How do you implement access control?
After assessing the needs of the organization, we install an access station based on the type of application needed.
For a basic installation, an electric strike is wired into the access station, and the access station is wired into the power supply with battery backup (plug in power supply optional).
What is the first step of access control?
To get into the area, by a door reader with a credential (key, card, fob, touchless system smart device, keypad, and/or biometrics.)
What is the best access control system?
The best access control system will not only be useful for security, it will also optimize your day to day business operations, drive down costs, and improve productivity.
What is the main purpose of access control?
The main purpose of access control is to control the point of entry to a property building, room or device.
