Access control systems are a vital part of ensuring the security of your business. These systems allow you to determine who is allowed entry to certain sensitive areas of your premises, so that you can keep unauthorized individuals out. In order to help you determine which one will best meet your needs, here is a brief overview of the types of systems available in the market.
Stand-alone systems are essentially high-tech door locks. They usually consist of a terminal that is controlled by a keypad or remote. A person authorized to enter keys in an access code on the keypad or uses the remote to unlock the door or gate.
These basic systems are usually installed in residential homes, since the level of security they provide is very rudimentary. For instance, you cannot program the keypad to restrict access at certain hours. As the name implies, you also cannot network access points so that you can control them from a particular location.
A variation of stand-alone systems is telephone entry systems. These systems provide the option for a guest to call up to a resident so that they can remotely open the door for them. These types of systems are generally found in apartment buildings and they effectively act as an automated doorman who screens guests and determines who is allowed in or not.
Networked systems, on the other hand, are connected using a software application that is managed from a central point. This allows security personnel to not only restrict access but also monitor who entered a particular access point and when they did so. These systems usually provide authorized personnel with a keycard that not only allows them access to a particular location but also allows monitoring of when they entered or exited there. An individual’s access can also be remotely deactivated so that when they use the keycard to try and gain entry, an alert is sent.
These systems can also be combined with other security technologies to provide even higher levels of security. For instance, you can integrate networked systems with CCTV surveillance so that you can monitor exactly who is entering and exiting a particular access point.
In choosing which access control systems are the best for your organization, start by determining what your security requirements are. You want to install the system that meets your needs in order to avoid having to pay for features that you will not use. If you’re unsure as to how to assess your security requirements, you can consult with experts who will inspect your premises and make recommendations.