If you’re a movie fan, you’ve probably seen a spy or two overcome the difficulties of a fingerprint scanner or steal a keycard to sneak into a building. Those systems never quite work in the movies, but, in reality, they’re highly effective and technologically advanced systems that many businesses and organizations rely on to keep high-security information and areas safe.

Keycards and fingerprint scanners are just a few forms of what’s known as “access control,” a type of security system designed to limit access to sensitive information and spaces to only authorized personnel. Champion Lock & Safe Company’s locksmiths have installed numerous access control systems over the years and will share with you here the different types of access control, the benefits of this type of system, and some of its most important uses.

What Is Access Control?

Access control is a type of security system implemented in several different commercial settings. Essentially, it’s any system that regulates who can enter or access a specific area, building, or resource at a given time. There are many different reasons to implement this system and many different ways to do so.

The Different Types of Access Control

First, we need to distinguish between two different ways of classifying types of access control. Some classifications describe the conditions that grant a user access, and others describe the technology of the security system itself.

The types of access granting include:

  • Discretionary access control (DAC): The owner of the restricted area determines who can access the restricted zone. DAC is the most common for small businesses.
  • Mandatory access control (MAC): Access permissions are controlled by a central authority with multiple levels of security access. This type was originally intended for military and government organizations, but some high-security businesses also use it.
  • Role-based access control (RBAC): Access is granted to individuals who hold a certain role within the business or organization.
  • Rule-based access control: Access is granted provided certain rules have been followed, such as the room can only be accessed at a particular time of day.

Let’s now take a closer look at the different technologies available for access control.

Biometric Access Control

Biometric access control is perhaps the most secure technology. It requires an authorized user to provide proof of their identity through a biometric identifier, such as a fingerprint, voice recognition, facial scan, or retina scan. Due to the level of security and technology, biometric access control is generally used only in high-security settings, such as restricted government facilities, laboratories, and data centers.

Keycard or Proximity Card Access Control

This type of access control requires authorized users to present a keycard or proximity card that is swiped or tapped near a reader. The card contains a code that tells the reader that the holder has been granted permission to access the area. Cards are vulnerable to theft, but a good system will allow a card to be deactivated if it goes missing. There are also smartphone apps that can serve the same function as keycards.

Keypad Systems

Keypad systems require an authorized user to enter a code, which, if correct, opens the door. More basic forms of keypad systems use a single code given to authorized employees. On the other hand, higher-security versions might involve every employee having their own code and access being granted or revoked for certain codes.

Multi-Factor Authentication

Multi-factor authentication is any combination of two or more other methods. For example, users might have to swipe a card and then enter a code. For high security, biometric information might be paired with a unique employee code.

Cloud-Based Access Control

Cloud-based access control refers to a system where employee information and access rights are stored and managed in the cloud. This system allows permissions to be revoked and access to be monitored anytime from a remote location. Cloud-based systems are especially advantageous for businesses with many different locations and employees who move between them.

Benefits of Access Control

No matter the method, access control can prove advantageous for many reasons, including the following:

  • Improved security: Access control reduces the possibility of unauthorized access to areas or systems and lowers the risk of security breaches.
  • Increased accountability: Access control systems can tell you who accessed a room and when allowing you to pinpoint who might know about or be responsible for an issue.
  • Scalable security: Access control can easily be scaled up with the growth of your business by adding new doors or simply allowing access to more employees.
  • Cost savings: While access control is more expensive to install than traditional locks, it can save you money by reducing your need for security personnel.
  • Convenience and flexibility: Access control systems mean you and your employees don’t have to keep track of keys and constantly check whether a door is locked or not.

Who Can Use Access Control?

Access control is integral to the security operations of various facilities across many industries. In some industries, including healthcare, these systems can help comply with enforced security regulations.

Some businesses that can use access control include:

  • Healthcare facilities: Many healthcare facilities, such as doctor’s offices and pharmacies, need to comply with strict regulations governing the security of patient information. Access control regulates who can enter spaces where this information is stored and can also keep medicine and medical equipment safe.
  • Financial institutions: These likewise must follow regulations around sensitive financial and client information. Access control protects this information and can also limit access to vaults.
  • Airports and other transportation centers: These sites use access control to keep passengers out of dangerous locations, such as runways, and to prevent interference with operations and expensive equipment.
  • Retail stores: Many retail stores can use access control to keep their inventory safe in a backroom or to prevent unauthorized access after hours.
  • Educational institutions: These may also face regulations governing the security of student information. Valuable equipment and the need to keep dangerous items away from children are other reasons educational facilities can benefit from access control.

These are just a few of the facilities that can benefit, but any business that stores sensitive information or expensive equipment can improve its security with access control.

Upgrade Your Business’ Security Now

If you’d like to enhance your business’ security and keep your information and equipment safe, contact the locksmiths at Champion Lock & Safe Company. We’ve installed access control systems for all sorts of industries and are skilled at implementing all types of technology, including biometric systems.

Call (210) 590-6033 to book an initial consultation.