No matter the type of building, every site needs a way to control access. As a property owner, developer, facilities manager, or security professional, you need to make sure your building has a reliable way to move tenants, employees, and visitors through the building while keeping unauthorized people out. In other words, you need an access control entry system.
Access control is the process of granting or denying access to specific areas or resources based on predefined rules and policies. It is a vital component of any modern security system as it helps you protect your physical and digital assets, streamline your operations, and comply with regulatory standards.
But how do access control entry systems work, what are the different types of systems available, and why should you upgrade? In this article, we will answer these questions and explain the importance of these systems as well as their key components.
The Importance of Access Control Entry
Access control systems offer a comprehensive and flexible solution to meet the diverse needs of businesses and communities as security threats, technological innovations, and working environments evolve.
The primary importance of access control entry lies in its ability to regulate who can enter, exit, or use certain areas or resources within a physical or digital space. It ensures that only authorized and authenticated individuals can access the places or information they need, while reducing the risk of unauthorized access, theft, and other security breaches. This is particularly crucial in sensitive environments such as government buildings, healthcare facilities, and high-tech research and development centers, where valuable assets and confidential information need the highest forms of protection.
Beyond security, access control entry also plays a crucial role in enhancing efficiency and productivity as well as employee and tenant experiences. This is especially beneficial in large-scale environments such as office complexes, universities, and commercial properties.
To implement an effective access control system, it is important to understand the different types of access control and how they work. Depending on the level of security and flexibility required, different access control models can be adopted or combined to suit various scenarios and environments.
Types of Access Control
There are four types of access control:
- Discretionary access control (DAC)
- Mandatory access control (MAC)
- Role-based access control (RBAC)
- Attribute-based access control (ABAC)
Discretionary access control (DAC)
A discretionary access control system (DAC) is a type of security that allows users to control who has access to certain areas or resources. In this type of security, access is given based on permissions or lists and is usually controlled by the owner of a company.
Mandatory access control (MAC)
Within a mandatory access control (MAC) system, people are assigned a label that determines their level of access to areas and resources. In this type of access control, typically one person is given authority to establish access permissions for the entire organization, such as a Chief Security Officer.
Role-based access control (RBAC)
A role-based access control (RBAC) model works by assigning roles to users and then regulating what information those users can see or areas they can access based on their role. In RBAC systems, access is assigned by the system administrator.
Attribute-based access control (ABAC)
Attribute-based access control (ABAC) is a method of controlling access to resources, data, or areas of a building based on attributes of a user such as their job title, location, or department in which they work. ABAC is typically the most flexible of the access control types and is increasingly being adopted by organizations.
These types of access control systems can be applied to both physical and logical access control.
What is the difference between physical and logical access control?
Physical access control refers to the control of entry and exit points of a building or a facility such as doors, gates, or turnstiles.
Logical access control refers to the control of access to networks, systems, applications, or data such as passwords, tokens, or biometrics.
What are the different types of Access Control Entry systems?
There are various types of entry systems based on the method of identification.
These include:
- Card-based systems: Require a user to present a physical card, such as a swipe card or proximity card, to a reader device to gain access to a secured area.
- Key fob systems: Use small, handheld devices that a user can present to a reader unlock doors.
- Pin based systems: Require a user to enter a personal identification number into a reader with a keypad. These are most commonly used as a multi-factor authentication method with another form of identification.
- Biometric systems: Rely on unique physical characteristics such as fingerprints, handprints, facial recognition, or eye scans.
- Mobile credentials: These systems are a popular type of keyless entry system that allows users to unlock doors using their smartphones or other mobile devices.
Most access control solutions will support most or all the above entry types to enable their staff and tenants to access buildings. However, authentication is only one aspect of access control. There are other components that work together to form the system.
Key components of Access Control systems
An access control system consists of two main components: hardware and software. Hardware includes the physical components such as access cards, controllers, and readers; software allows you to enroll users, assign rules, and ensure people have correct access to specified areas, as well as reporting and analytics.
A typical access control system uses a combination of hardware devices. At the very basic level, when someone badges their access card or mobile credential over the reader, it sends a message to a controller, which then authenticates the credential using two-factor authentication to verify that the user is authorized to enter. If they are, the controller sends a signal to the door lock instructing it to open.
Access control systems typically use multiple forms of authentication to ensure a person is who they say they are, with the options of something you have (such as a key card, fob, or token), something you know (like a password or PIN number), and something you are (such as a biometric).
Although all access control systems use the above components, not all access control systems are created equal. Some of the older systems that rely on third-party equipment are becoming obsolete and vulnerable to security threats. Therefore, businesses should consider modernizing their aging access control systems with more flexible and scalable solutions that leverage cloud computing and strong cybersecurity controls.
Why should businesses modernize aging Access Control systems?
How secure is your security? Technology changes fast, and so do the challenges and opportunities for your business. Access control systems are no exception and many of them are becoming obsolete, exposing businesses to risk and holding them back from reaping the benefits of modern technology.
Compatibility is one of the main reasons to modernize your ageing access control system. Older systems may not be able to communicate with newer technologies, such as mobile credentials or cloud-based software. This can limit the functionality and security of the system.
Another reason for businesses to modernize their ageing access control systems is obsolescence. Many older systems are no longer supported by their manufacturers, which means that they cannot receive updates, fixes, or replacements for their hardware. These older systems may not be compliant with the latest standards and regulations, exposing businesses to legal and reputational risks as well as increasing the cost of ownership.
A modern access control system is more than a security measure, it's a valuable investment for your business. These systems enhance the security, efficiency, and productivity of your business, saving you money and reducing risks. They offer both on-premise and cloud-hosted solutions, ensuring flexibility to meet various business needs. With continuous cybersecurity enhancements and automated software updates, modern systems keep your premises secure and up-to-date.