Safeguarding your employees and business assets is of utmost importance, as is maintaining oversight of who enters and exits your premises, and at what times. By assigning unique credentials to each employee, an access control system can effectively protect your personnel, resources, and data. But what exactly are access control systems, and how do they operate?
An access control system is a type of physical security mechanism that regulates entry points to your business or specific areas within a building. These systems function as gatekeepers, physically preventing unauthorized individuals from entering while allowing access to authorized personnel.
Let’s delve deeper into the key elements of an access control system and their functionality.
Access control credentials utilize RFID (radio frequency identification) technology to interact with the access control panel. Each credential contains a distinct encrypted identification number. While it’s possible to issue the same type of tag to all employees, you can configure one to allow entry and another to restrict access to specific areas within the building.
The system administrator has the flexibility to adjust access settings at any time, eliminating the need to physically retrieve and exchange tags. If a tag is lost, it can be permanently disabled remotely.
The tag reader is positioned on either one or both sides of the door, depending on whether the system controls only entry or both entry and exit. It features an antenna that connects to and receives power from the access control panel.
When someone attempts to access the building using their access control tag, the reader’s antenna captures its encrypted identification number.
The controller serves as the central hub of the system. It retains the authorization details set by the system administrator. When it receives the encrypted tag number from the reader, the controller decodes this information and checks it against the stored ID numbers in the system. If a match is found and the user has the necessary permissions, the door will unlock.
The access control panel, also known as the controller, manages the operation of the electrical door lock. When a user is granted access, the door will automatically unlock, allowing entry.
Access control software is a critical component of any access control system, serving as the backbone that enables seamless management of user credentials and access permissions. This software allows system administrators to configure and monitor access rules, ensuring that only authorized users can gain access to specific areas within a building. By providing a user-friendly interface, access control software simplifies the process of adding or removing users, setting access schedules, and generating detailed audit reports. Moreover, it can integrate with other security and building management systems, offering a comprehensive solution for enhanced security and operational efficiency. With the right access control software, businesses can effectively manage their security infrastructure, reduce security risks, and ensure that access control systems work optimally to protect their assets and personnel.
The first step is the authentication of a credential. When a user presents their credential to the reader, the system verifies the data to determine if the credential is recognized.
Subsequently, the reader determines if the user is authorized to access the entry point. For authorization, the reader must confirm:
Upon successful authorization, the reader signals the door hardware to unlock the entry point. If the door unlocks, the system records the user’s action.
Managing an access control system entails adding and removing users, overseeing activity, and configuring schedules or alerts. Most access control systems utilize software that automatically synchronizes with the controller and reader.
Numerous access control systems include an audit capability, allowing administrators to produce detailed reports. These reports assist in meeting compliance standards and verifying system performance.
In an access control system, credentials can be something known, carried, or possessed by the authorized person. This includes a PIN code, an access card, or biometric data. Most access control systems utilize card-based credentials, which are either swiped or presented to an electronic reader. Biometric systems may serve as the sole means of verification or be used alongside a card reader to enhance security.
Access control systems are not limited to controlling entry; they also monitor alarms, such as door alarms, duress buttons, or environmental situations like temperature changes. Furthermore, these systems can integrate with other building systems, such as fire safety and energy management systems, ensuring a comprehensive security solution.
The main computer in an access control system can vary in complexity. For smaller setups, a simple desktop computer may suffice, while larger systems might require a redundant server to ensure reliability and performance. This flexibility allows the system to scale according to the needs of the business or institution.
By understanding these components and functionalities, businesses can make informed decisions about implementing the right access control system to meet their security needs.
An access control system is an essential part of your building’s security framework, offering an extra layer of protection to regulate and oversee access to your business premises.
Castle Security specializes in designing and installing access control systems across a range of sectors, including Healthcare, Corporate, Education, and Government. Our expertise extends to various facilities such as Acute, Long-Term and Residential Care, Assisted Living, Municipalities, Condominium complexes, Distribution facilities, businesses of all sizes, as well as Colleges and Universities.
We collaborate with three industry-leading companies renowned for developing innovative access control systems. These advanced security systems are adaptable, scalable, and versatile, ensuring high functionality while providing excellent value for your investment. Ultimately, they assist in effectively controlling entry to your business or institution.
Learn how Castle Security can help you design the perfect access control system. Reach out to us today for further details!
