Access control systems are an integral component of any commercial business. By utilizing the latest access control technology, you can help keep your building and employees safe and ensure the protection of valuable company information.
Access control technology has come a long way over the years, and in this article, we will take a look at some of its most significant developments and how your organization can utilize the latest access control technology to keep your business safe.
WHAT IS ACCESS CONTROL AND WHY IS IT IMPORTANT?
Access control is a critical security mechanism that allows businesses to control access to certain parts of a building or facility. Additionally, access control can also be used to ensure predetermined procedures are in place to protect sensitive information, such as consumer and employee data.
Having the ability to monitor who enters your building throughout the day or has access to confidential company information is vital to the safety, security, and well-being of those who work or spend time in the facility during any given day.
While some companies have policies in place that restrict access to company networks, files, and confidential data, access control technology provides commercial businesses an added layer of protection to minimize the possibility of unauthorized access to physical and digital infrastructures.
Whether it’s used to keep buildings and outdoor spaces secure or to limit access to sensitive company information, access control solutions should offer the following functionalities.
- Authentication Validating the identity of the user or device attempting to gain access.
- Authorization Determining the access rights or privileges of specific users.
- Access Once the user or device is authorized, they are granted access.
- Manage The ability to grant or revoke access privileges of users or devices.
- Audit The ability to edit the roles of users and revoke access if they no longer need it.
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INNOVATIONS IN ACCESS CONTROL OVER THE YEARS
As with all technology, access control has evolved over the years. Although access cards and card readers still play a critical role in the access control industry, the implementation of new technology, like mobile credentials, is revolutionizing the way access control is being used.
Let’s take a look at some of the significant innovations in access control over the years.
Mobile Access Control
Mobile access control enables mobile phones, laptops, tablets, and wearable devices to serve as a user’s credentials to enter offices or other business facilities.
In most instances, the mobile access control device is Bluetooth-enabled, allowing the mobile device to communicate with the access control reader and authorize user access from several feet away.
We have found that our customers love our Brivo cloud-based mobile access control solutions. Facility Managers, Property Managers, and business owners are able to get rid of metal keys, key cards, and key fobs.
No more wasted time keeping inventory and tracking down metal keys, plastic cards, and fobs. With Watchmen Security’s Brivo access control system authorized users can open any door from their mobile device from anywhere.
Cloud-Based Access Control
Cloud-based access control essentially transfers a company’s server from its own premises to a cloud-based data center. This allows any major equipment to be hosted off-site, while key fobs and keycard readers remain on-site.
Whether it is managing access to a single door or an entire facility, cloud-based systems enable security dealers and monitoring companies to provide cost-effective, fully-functional security solutions to their users.
Multi-Factor Authentication
Multi-factor authentication access control requires users to provide two or more verification factors to gain access to a location or resource.
The key advantage of multi-factor authentication is that it improves an organization’s security protocols by requiring users to identify themselves with more than just a username and a password (i.e., 4-8-digit codes that are typically sent via email, SMS, or mobile app).
Biometric Access Control
Biometric access control is a type of access control that uses pattern recognition to collect a specific type of biometric data from a user. It then compares the data to a preset group of attributes to determine authorization.
There are a number of characteristics that can be used for biometric access control, such as fingerprints, irises, hand geometries, or voice patterns.
THE MAIN TYPES OF ACCESS CONTROL SYSTEMS
There are four main types of access control solutions that can be used to manage access to specific areas within your business.
- Discretionary access control
- Mandatory access control
- Role-based access control
- Rule-based access control
Discretionary Access Control
Discretionary access control (DAC) is the least restrictive type of access control. It allows the system administrator to have full control over who has access and permissions across the system.
The main advantage of discretionary access control is that the system administrator can easily configure permissions and determine who is granted access based on how they see fit.
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Mandatory Access Control
Mandatory access control (MAC) is the securest and most restrictive form of access control, as well as the most rigid.
Instead of having an access list for each individual entry point, mandatory access control systems operate by classifying all users and allowing them access to areas based on the programming of the system.
If your company has 200 employees, the system administrator will need to create 200 separate user permissions.
Role-Based Access Control
Role-based access control is one of the most commonly used types of access control. It assigns user permissions based on the role of a user within the organization.
If a user is designated as a “project engineer,” they will automatically obtain the permissions that all project engineers have within the system. The main advantage of role-based access control is that it makes it very easy for system administrators to set up and use.
Rule-Based Access Control
Rule-based access control is another commonly used type of access control that allows system administrators to create rules and restrictions. For example, they can limit access at certain times of the day or restrict access based on the location of a user.
The main advantage of rule-based access control is that it provides a simple way to maintain transparency and control over your business and allows for dynamic sets of user permissions. Rule-based access control is also great for buildings or facilities with multi-door access.
KEEP YOUR BUSINESS SECURE WITH WATCHMEN SECURITY!
The security industry is evolving, and so too is access control technology. With the latest access control technology, you can ensure that your employees and visitors, as well as company data, are safe and secure 24/7.
At Watchmen Security, we understand you have a responsibility to ensuring the protection of your employees, visitors, and data. With our cloud-based commercial access control technology with suppliers like Brivo, you can ensure the safety and security of your commercial building and protect your investments around the clock.
In addition to access control technology, we also offer other types of physical security systems, including video surveillance that allows you to monitor your property in real-time, video analytics, remote management systems, and fire alarms.
If you choose to partner with us, our team will ensure that your company can anticipate and defend against security threats and have the utmost confidence that only authorized users will have access to your facility and data at all times.
Ready for Reliable Security?
Don't deal with the stress of not knowing who is coming in and out of your building, wondering if your cameras work or not, or wait until your system fails to prevent crime. Get in contact with Watchmen Security today for a free quote.