Electronic access control can be an integral part of the overall security system of an organisation and be used to keep the property and people safe. Generally, authorised users have access via fobs, passcodes or touchless methods, while door access systems will allow visitors to enter once they are given permission to do so.
Access control systems are used in a wide range of settings including residential blocks, office buildings, hospital wards, schools and universities. The benefits are primarily: the management of access so there is less of a danger of lost or stolen keys, and that you can view access activity.
The main features of an electronic access control system that can help an organisation include:
- the ability to monitor real time activity, on site and remotely off site
- staff time keeping logs
- emergency evacuation call list logs
- secure room access activity logs
- the ability to unlock doors remotely or via schedule
- to reduce your costs and increase service levels to staff / visitors
- provide occupancy levels
How Electronic Access Control Works and How to Manage it
- Authorisation: The access control system administrator specifies individual users’ access rights to areas or resources. For example, employees are authorised to enter a building, but may not have permission to access all areas depending on their job role. Access can be via PIN codes, swipe cards, fobs or proximity key cards; via an app on their mobile device or a biometric solution in the case of buildings requiring stronger security arrangements.
- Authentication: The system or an individual validates an entry request such as the identity of a person or the credentials they present. For example, a resident checks a video image of a visitor before granting access, or the system validates credentials against a database of authorised users. Depending on the access system solution chosen the correct keypad, card, fob readers, smart door lock or biometric readers will need to be installed for the authorisation and authentication to work. For visitors you can have intercom or video door readers to verify their identity.
- Access: When the system has authenticated a request, it grants access by opening a locked door. The controllers and access control boards act as the link between the door reader and the user database.
- Management: Security administrators manage the access control database by adding or removing authorised users so that the access control devices only validate requests based on current information. The software for access control systems is a vital tool for managing the database of authorised users. The database holds the details of the network of access-controlled doors and authorised users together with their access levels. There are now two options for hosting access control software: on-site in servers or hosted in the cloud accessible via the Internet. The advantage of a cloud system is its scalability and the ease of remote management if its required.
- Audit and review: Regular reviews and audits minimise the risk of users retaining access rights they no longer require. Audits also provide essential records for compliance.
Considerations for Installation
Data networks and cabling: Dedicated cabling has traditionally been used to connect security access components but this is expensive and lacks flexibility if an access control system needs to be changed. Data networks offer a more flexible alternative for IP-based systems and they can be connected to existing networks wirelessly or using Power over Ethernet (POE) systems.
Power supply: We are frequently asked about power failure and how it can affect the electronic access control. Where possible we install Power over Ethernet (POE) systems to give you a reliable data and power connection and can install uninterruptible power supply (UPS) appliances. A UPS would support the required number of access points with the correctly calculated power demand to cover your business needs and give you peace of mind.
How we can support you
We are a Platinum Partner of UK manufacturer and developer, Paxton Access, which offers net-worked and standalone access control solutions, which includes the option for mobile apps and remote management of sites. We are also an Avigilon Premier Partner. The North American manufacturer, Avigilon, part of Motorola Solutions, offers both on-premise and cloud access control solutions under its Avigilon Unity and Avigilon Alta brands.
With our long-standing experience we can assess your site and develop a modern bespoke access control system that will work for your property and organisation size. Contact us for more information.