It’s more than likely a bobby pin could open a locked door. The major concern here is: did your access control system catch it? Access control systems come in handy in multiple environments, specifically business environments, where you need to ensure that only authorized personnel have access to certain areas.
However, an access control system is only as good as the data it provides.
Not only is the system restricting access to given rooms, but it also needs to give you information such as:
● Who entered the room
● What time did the person enter the room
● What time did the person exit the room
● Did the door close when the person entered and exited the room
Although it seems simple, an access control system needs to remain updated to provide you with the most accurate information. That means if Michael enters the secured room at 8:07 a.m., it should be logged as exactly that, not an approximation.
So, how do you know if your business’s access control system is outdated?
1. The timings for entering and exiting controlled rooms are off.
If knowing the exact moment a room was entered wasn’t needed, you wouldn’t have an access control system. But because your business needs this information, your system can’t run on approximations. Sometimes, outdated systems have glitches that record a room’s entry or exit differently than what actually occurred.
So, if the recorded entry and exit times seem to be drifting away from reality, it’s a sign it’s time to update the system.
2. The system is having issues registering the user who entered or left the room.
Similar to recording incorrect times, outdated systems can have issues registering who entered and left the room. Often, this will appear as if the user is known instead of assigned a different name. However, this defeats the purpose of knowing who is entering and exiting the restricted area.
Outdated systems that fail to record the names of those accessing the room expose the business to security threats. That’s not to say one of your employees is up to no good—you just never know who else is in the building.
3. Your company’s technologies are upgrading, but the system isn’t.
In the midst of AI, companies and small businesses are leaping to keep up with advanced technology and its benefits. And with new technologies come new updates…
Just like an iPhone 2 won’t update to the latest iOS 17.4, access control systems reach a limit in their upgrades. Which means you may have to change systems to ensure your entire business operations integrate seamlessly.
4. People are running into issues accessing the rooms with their keycards.
This is a no-brainer. If the key doesn’t work, you can’t get in. But what if it isn’t your fault? Issues like programming errors, technology incompatibility during updates, and reader malfunctions all contribute to keycard dilemmas and make it very difficult to work.
If more than one person’s keycard is giving them trouble, it’s time to examine the system.
5. The system seems to be slowing down.
We want to avoid hindrances as much as possible, and slow response times are the greatest hindrance of all. When using an access control system, we want to scan our card, hear the beep, and hear the lock, all within a matter of seconds. It’s what it’s supposed to do.
No, we’re not spoiled. Access control systems are meant to be quick and easy, given that you’re accessing a doorway. If the process of scanning a card and unlocking a door takes more than the system’s allocated timeframe, there could be a malfunction that could interfere with the security data collected.
The moment it takes an extra five seconds to enter or exit the room, it’s fair to start asking questions to see if the system is working properly.
Systems required a little TLC, too.
Sometimes, people think once they’ve upgraded to a new system, they no longer need to upkeep it. However, like anything we use, maintenance is required. And your access control system deserves proper maintenance for the security it provides your business.
So, if you notice these five red flags in your access control system, it may be time for an update. Contact a trusted local locksmith for help with your access control system.
Mitigate Risk with Locksmith Services
Although it might be tempting to install or service your access control system, it’s best to connect with a locksmith that specializes in commercial locksmith solutions like Action Locksmith. Our Michigan locksmith company can help with all your commercial and residential lock and security needs including access control and master key systems.
We have been serving the residents and businesses of Michigan with pride and extensive skill, keeping them safe and secure for more than two generations. 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. Reach out to us anytime!