In recent times, we have seen that the standards for physical security have extensively risen, including those for office access control systems. The Covid-19 pandemic has created a completely new factor that has been added into consideration where security access is of major concern. Business officials, now, not only have to face the challenge of keeping the workforce healthy but also protecting them from potential security threats. As a result, access control has taken on even greater importance and has become the most popular and widely used security system in the world today.
With the technological advances in the world, security systems have also been upgraded with time. The blog post will go over the basics of access control systems, how it works, and why it’s a vital part of the company’s IT security infrastructure. In other words, how security systems will keep your staff, your property, and your assets safe and secure.
What is Access Control?
Access control is a security measure that determines who can access a resource, such as a computer system, building, or file. There are 3 prominent types of access controls –
Physical Access Control – Limits access to a resource to authorized personnel only. This can be done through the use of locks, fences, guards, and other physical barriers. There are several types of physical access control systems, each with its technical specifications. But the 5 main steps that generally apply to all such systems are – Authorization, Authentication, Access, Managing/Monitoring, and Auditing/Reporting.
Logical Access Control – Limits access to a resource to authorized personnel only. This can be done through the use of passwords, user IDs, encryption, and other technological means.
Administrative Access Control – Sets the rules and policies for who can access a resource and what they are allowed to do with it. This can be done through the use of permissions, roles, and groups.
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Types of Access Control Systems
There are several types of access control systems available to business owners, each with its own set of benefits and drawbacks.
The most common and widely popular type of system is the Badge Reader, which uses an employee’s badge to grant or deny access to specific areas. Badge readers are typically used in conjunction with door locks and can be programmed to allow or restrict access based on the time of day or other factors.
Another type of access control system is the Keycard System, which uses a card that is swiped or inserted into a reader to unlock doors. Like badge readers, keycard systems can be programmed to allow or deny access based on the time of day or other factors. Keycard systems have the added benefit of being able to track when and where each card is used, making them ideal for businesses that need to closely monitor employee activity.
Biometric Systems are another type of access control system that uses fingerprint scanners, iris scanners, or other physical characteristics to grant or deny access. Biometric systems are often used in high-security environments where it is important to ensure that only authorized personnel have access.
No matter what type of access control system you choose, it is important to make sure that it is properly installed and maintained. Access control systems should be regularly tested and updated to ensure that they are working correctly and that all employees know how to use them.
Why Is It Important To Invest In An Access Control System?
It is no secret that as your business grows bigger, so does the need for security. You may have installed a security system when you first opened your doors, but as time goes on and your company expands, that system may no longer be adequate. That’s why it’s important to reassess your security needs regularly and upgrade your system as necessary.
In some sectors like government, defense, chemical, pharmaceutical, oil & gas and other utilities, manufacturing, finance, logistics, aviation, healthcare, and data, access control is a necessity due to more complex security needs.
Access Control Systems - Find the Best Solution for You!
There are many different types of access control systems available on the market, so it’s important to choose one that will meet the specific needs of your business. The following factors need to be considered when selecting an access control system:
- Size Of Your Facility: If you have a large facility, you’ll need an access control system that can accommodate a high volume of traffic.
- Type Of Business You Operate: The access control system you choose should be appropriate for the type of business you operate. For example, if you run a retail store, you’ll need a different system than if you operate a manufacturing plant.
- Your Budget: Access control systems can range in price from affordable to
- Enhanced Visitor Experiences: Ease of accessing the premises, personalized ‘welcome’ received upon arrival, ability to gain access to the locations or people, ability to arrive and leave promptly – without waiting time, and sense of safety and security provided.
Costs for Access Control Systems
The cost of access control systems can vary depending on the features and functionality you require. However, as a general rule, commercial access control systems start at around $500 – $1,000 for a basic system.
If you need something more sophisticated, then the costs can increase to several thousand dollars. For example, a high-end access control system that includes biometric authentication could cost upwards of $10,000.
Of course, the cost of your access control system will also depend on the number of doors and users you need to accommodate. A small business with just a few employees may only need a single door controller, whereas a large business with hundreds of employees will need multiple door controllers and possibly even an enterprise-grade access control system.
Major Benefits Of A Professionally Installed Access Control System
There are many benefits of access control systems, upgrading an outdated control system or implementing a software-based access control system for businesses. With a professionally installed access control system in place –
- Businesses can restrict access to certain areas of the premises
- Superior protection for people, spaces & assets
- Making sure only authorized personnel are provided access to sensitive areas
- Track employee comings and goings
- Integration with CCTV systems to provide a comprehensive security solution.
- Cybersecurity and data protection
- Improvements in costs
- Ease of operation, and overall value.
Secure Access For Your Business – Connect With Bits Secure IT!
The wellness of an organization’s employees, staff, stakeholders, clients, and visitors can quite literally depend on the strength of its access control system. Digitally controlled and cyber-secure forward-thinking companies are leveraging state-of-the-art technology to ensure a more reliable & robust security architecture.
Bits Secure IT Infrastructure LLC is a recognized & trusted partner of access control systems in Dubai UAE. We are dealing with all kinds of advanced solutions for access control like fingerprint scanners, readers, control panels, time and attendance access controllers, USB fingerprint scanners for enrolment, proximity cards and key tags, smart cards, and much more.
If you’re not sure whether your business is ready for a security upgrade, or needs a new security system, contact our support team as it’s always best to consult with a professional to get expert advice.
