What Makes Access Control Systems Such Reliable Security Technology?
By Roland Heikes
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.
The most common components of an access control system are the physical barrier, the access controller/reader, and the credentials. The physical barrier is very important because it is what actually secures the door or gate. Electronic locks are pretty much common these days, especially in hotels and banks. In bus or train terminals, turnstiles are a common feature in the entrance gates.
An access controller can be a stand-alone system in which all the important information and credentials are stored within the unit itself. Networked access controllers make use of a database system to verify the credentials of a person requesting access. Credentials can be a key card, password/passphrase, key fob, or a distinct personal feature such as a fingerprint or retina.
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.
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.
The most common components of an access control system are the physical barrier, the access controller/reader, and the credentials. The physical barrier is very important because it is what actually secures the door or gate. Electronic locks are pretty much common these days, especially in hotels and banks. In bus or train terminals, turnstiles are a common feature in the entrance gates.
An access controller can be a stand-alone system in which all the important information and credentials are stored within the unit itself. Networked access controllers make use of a database system to verify the credentials of a person requesting access. Credentials can be a key card, password/passphrase, key fob, or a distinct personal feature such as a fingerprint or retina.
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.
About the Author:
Choosing the right security alarm and surveillance system may not always be easy for a homeowner. Add in an access control system and it becomes more complicated. Need help with your choices? Visit http://www.secom.com.sg and get free access to our comprehensive guides.