In this month’s issue of Champion Lock & Safe Company’s blog on current trends in the locksmith industry, we’re talking about a subject that’s on the mind of most small business owners in the greater San Antonio area, no matter what sector they work in: access control.

Fundamental to the continued success and prosperity of your business is ensuring that access control is maintained over your business’s physical (and digital) locations at all times. While keeping your company’s data secure is a subject for another day, but today we’ll be talking about how to navigate the wealth of options that a small business owner faces when looking at access control systems.

The fact is that in today’s world, a deadbolt and key no longer meets the needs of the vast majority of small business owners. Protecting your business from theft and corporate espionage is essential. Here’s how to know which access control solution is right for your small business.

A Comparison of Access Control Methods for Small Businesses

Today’s small business owner is faced with an overwhelming number of access control methods to secure their properties and to allow them and their employees to come and go as they please. Champion Lock & Safe Company examines the pros and cons of each here. Take a look—and feel free to call us if you have any questions.

Biometric Locks: Pros and Cons

Biometric locks are the most sophisticated technological solution on this list, and also the most expensive. These solutions can run upwards of $2,000 to $3,000 a door—but they offer absolute control over who goes in and out of your property.

Biometric locks use a reading of you and your employees’ biological features to allow instant access––using a fingerprint. Some models even use retinal scans, but these cost too much for the average small business owner.

The verdict: One major con with biometric locks is that setting them up takes a long time. It’s not suitable for businesses that have a high amount of turnover. Also, the level of security they provide is probably overkill for the needs of most.

Access Control Software: Pros and Cons

Access control software such as DormaKaba’s E-Plex Enterprise Software combines encryption with one- or two-factor access. Employees use either a pin or a keycard or both to unlock doors.

You can set access for specific locks during specific hours. Some models can provide access for up to 3,000 unique users per lock!

The verdict: These solutions tend to be more expensive than others, although less than biometric models. These locks are best suited for small businesses with more than 100 employees.

Smart Locks: Pros and Cons

Smart locks usually combine Wi-Fi access via a code with a two-factor element, such as presenting a cellphone with the app installed.

Unfortunately, because most smart locks operate over your business’s Wi-Fi network, they are vulnerable to hacking and digital attacks. To remedy this problem, choose a reputable company known for their security.

The verdict: For the needs of most small business owners with fewer than 50 employees, smart locks are the way to go.

Unparalleled Security Options for Your Small Business

Looking for access control solutions for your small business? Call Champion Lock & Safe Company today and ask about our sophisticated lineup of access control solutions.