You may have been introduced to access control systems in one of the following common ways: 1) You work for a company with a high level of security that uses such a system or 2) You have lived in a residential community that has an access control system. Another way that you may have been introduced to access control systems is if you work at a school and it has an access control system installed.
A trusted local locksmith has the knowledge and skills needed to implement access control for your business or home.
If you have never used an access control system in any of these scenarios, you may be wondering, “what is an access control system?” Continue reading, and you will learn more about what an access control system is, how it works, and whether you should get one installed.
What is an Access Control System?
An access control system is a security mechanism for controlling who can enter in and out of a building. Such systems are usually more common in commercial buildings that are highly secured, like banks, government buildings, or any other building where the general public is not allowed to roam freely through private areas.
How Does an Access Control System Work?
Access control systems work by allowing authorized people to enter a secured area. Usually, access is triggered by some entry mechanism in the form of a card or by typing a security code into a keypad.
Normal Use
With a card system, a person will wave the card over a pad that reads the information embedded in the card, and this reader will read the card and grant the user access. Typically, a user will hear the door unlock, and they will have a specific time frame to open the door or gate and get into the building, entrance, or home. If you wait too long, the door or gate will close, and you will have to regain access.
With a combination number system, you may will have to type in a series of numbers to gain entry. This system is very similar to the card system and unlocks the door once the correct buttons are pushed.
Some access control systems use biometrics to allow entry. This is a much more intricate system than the above systems because the user gains entrance by using their fingerprint, eye, or other body part to enter a facility.
One more type of access system that exists is one in which there is someone who sits at the other end of the access system and grants you access. Typically, you will state who you are through a speaker or maybe even look at a camera, and the person who grants access will let you in if they recognize you.
Scheduled Activities
Sometimes access control systems can work using schedules. For instance, users may be granted access to the facility if they arrive at a specific time. Such a system may be helpful in places like schools that allow large groups to come in early in the morning. These systems are scheduled to remain open until a certain time. After the morning rush is done, the door is set back to regular passcode, card, or biometric access.
Who Needs an Access Control System?
Any home or any business that wants or needs to mitigate risk or establish a higher sense of security. Access control systems are typically used by facilities or individuals who need a high level of security. For example, private companies or office buildings have it to keep things safe and monitored on off hours or the weekend.
Even high-caliber individuals such as celebrities may have them in order to protect their property from unauthorized access by paparazzi or fans. But these systems aren’t limited to such people.
Residents
If you are a homeowner and you want to add a layer of security to your home, you may install such a system on your entry door. You can also install a gated access system to allow certain people in your home.
Business Owners
You may not have to be a government or bank facility to have controlled access. For example, you can install this system if you are a business owner who wants to limit the general public from entering your facility without authorization. Or if you have a large number of employees coming and going and need to keep sensitive information safe.
You can also install such a system if you want to control access at certain times of the day. For instance, you may be a twenty-four-hour facility but want to ensure that those who enter the business after hours are authorized to enter by installing such a system.
Access control systems can also limit who has access to certain areas. For instance, there can be general access granted to everyone who works in the business. Still, for more restricted areas, only those who have a particular type of card such as upper management, security, or maintenance may have access to those specific areas of the building.
If you believe that you need such a system for your home or business, these systems will certainly add a higher level of security. It’s also great for landlords or property managers who want to deter burglars from entering apartments or duplexes that you rent. While there are some access systems that you can install yourself, it is not recommended. It’s a good idea to contact a local locksmith that specializes in control access systems to install your system.
Commercial and residential security solutions begin with having the right doors and lock systems to mitigate risk and provide peace of mind. Action Locksmith can help. As a family-owned locksmith business, we have been serving the residents of Michigan with pride and extensive skill, keeping them safe and secure for more than 30 years. Whether you need your locks re-keyed, your doors repaired or replaced, a new camera system or have a lock emergency, we will be there. Questions? Call and speak with a specialist today!