Security is a top priority for all businesses. If you work with confidential information or expensive equipment, it is essential to protect your business’s resources for success. That’s why using access control solutions can help secure your resources.
These solutions allow or block access to a building, a room, or another area. It is an electronically powered form of physical security that manages entry/exit to a location at a particular time.
That’s why the best access control system works by identifying users through:
- Unique PINs
- Usernames
- Passwords
- Fingerprints
- Other forms of identification.
This system grants access based on the credentials programmed into the system.
Mainly, there are four types of access control solutions. Each of these models determines the level of access that will be permitted to the user.
The models are as follows:
1. Mandatory access control
It is the most restrictive control model. The system owner will only have this level of access. It is used for organizations that require maximum security with credentials limited to a sole, high-level operator.
2. Role-based access control
It is the most popular control model. It provides access based on the position of the employee. For example, in a research organization, only the top scientists will have access to restricted parts of the facility and so on.
3. Discretionary access control
It is the least restrictive control model. Each user is provided with the same level of control after granting access.
4. Attribute-based access control
This assigns or denies access to users based on a set of rules and limitations that have been defined by the owner or system administrator.
The freedom of modification is what makes this method such a popular choice. That’s why you can consider this system to be the best access control system model.
Components of access control solutions
Some major parts of access control solutions are:
1. Control panel
It acts as the brains of the system, making decisions on access based on the credentials presented to the reader.
Control panels can be a physical device or cloud-based software that you can manage with internet access.
2. Reader
It is installed at the entrance of the area. It scans the access credentials of a user and sends the encrypted information to the control panel. After that, it lets the user enter.
3. Credentials
This comes in many forms depending on the type of access control solutions.
Some manufacturers support several types of credentials, such as:
- Mobile apps
- Key fobs or cards
- PIN codes.
All types of credentials carry user identification information and access permission data.
4. Release mechanism
It is the physical device that secures the entrance. This mechanism takes many different forms, like
- Electronic or magnetic lock
- An elevator
- A gate opener
If the user included with the credential is allowed access to the system, the control panel sends a signal to the release mechanism to allow them access.
People using access control solutions
This system simplifies security in many ways. Anyone with security needs benefits from an access control system. Various industries can gain from access control solutions as seen below:
1. Healthcare
This industry uses access control solutions to follow HIPPA regulations for health data confidentiality.
These solutions can protect IT rooms or equipment racks from unauthorized access, helping keep digital data secure. It also safeguards physical files, examination rooms, and equipment like MRI machines.
2. Government
Security is a top priority for local and state governments. Government buildings are subject to homeland security regulations that may mean restricting entry.
Access control solutions can verify employees and limit access to departments, confidential information, and more.
3. Enterprise
Any business that accepts and operates credit cards must meet PCI credit card data regulations. Access control systems can also control the entry and exit to IT rooms and servers.
They can track who accesses certain data and when protecting the information.
4. Education
Schools and universities have multiple security needs. Access control solutions make managing secure locations like laboratories, etc. a breeze.
If you have lab equipment or expensive computers, the access control systems are programmed to ensure only those registered for corresponding courses can access these areas.
5. Small and medium-sized business
Key cards and access control solutions are for more than big corporations with thousands of employees. Small and medium-sized businesses can accumulate the benefits of using an access control system.
Benefits of access control solutions
The most significant advantages are as follows:
- Increases ease of access for employees
- Gets rid of traditional keys
- Saves energy and money
- Keeps track of who comes and goes
- Protects against unwanted visitors
- Provides employees the freedom to work when they need
- Prevents data breaches
- Creates a safe work environment
- Reduces theft and accidents
- Provides access to multiple buildings and locations
Wrapping Up
Now that you understand what an access control system is along with its benefits, why not purchase the best access control system?
Additionally, do remember to research the types of access control solutions before you make a purchase.
Visit our home-page for more information
