A Guide to Access Control Systems

What is the Best Access Control System

Door access control systems are a crucial security addition for many organizations. Schools realize that access control can protect students and teachers, while hospitals are concerned that their facility is secure. Businesses install access control to protect employees, equipment, and the facility.

Implementing an access control system is a strategic move that enhances security, streamlines operations, and ensures organizational compliance.

This article reviews how to select the best access control system for your organization.

What is an Access Control System

Access control systems significantly reinforce security by ensuring only authorized individuals can enter specific areas. The new systems offer a choice of door readers that make them more secure and easier to use. The access control system can control who enters the facility and who enters specific areas, such as engineering, human resources, manufacturing, accounting, and the IT department. It can also control who can use an elevator and what floors they can visit.

Why Do You Want It

There are several reasons for purchasing an access control system. A system can be used for security, meeting insurance requirements, and keeping records of where and when a person entered an area. They can be used in various settings, including offices, apartment complexes, hospitals, and educational institutions.

Things to consider include the type of door readers, where the controller is located, installation, the type of electric door lock, local compliance and regulations, and User management. You can also consider the ease of installation, the ease of expansion, and if there is a need for extended capability, such as elevator control – integration with IP camera systems or integration with Visitor Management Systems.  

To learn more, please read our article Access Control Considerations and How to Determine the Best Door Access Control System.

Understanding Access Control Systems

Several components make up an access control system. In general, Access Control Systems determine who enters a building or a specific area within a building. The key elements include:

• Door Readers: These are placed at entryways and read the credentials. They are used to control elevators, gates, or barriers. To learn more, read Door Readers for Everyone.
• Access Credentials: Cards, fobs, keypads, mobile apps, biometrics, etc., are used to identify a person. Please read our article, What are Door Access Control Credentials to learn more.
• Control Panel/Reader: This device receives the ID from the door reader and matches the ID to the user database. See our article, Access Controller Comparison.
• Access Control Management Software: This software controls the system and manages the users, permissions, and login data. To learn more, read our article, “Comparison of Access Control Software.”

To learn more, read our article, How Access Control Works.

What’s the Best Access Control System for You

The best system is the one that meets your objectives. Not all Door Access Control Systems are alike. Some are designed for a small number of doors and have limited features, and more complex systems include sophisticated functions. Here are some questions to ask.

1. What Access Control features and functions do you need?
2. What type of security do you require?
3. What type of hardware would you like?
4. What installation is required?
5. What type of credentials do you prefer?
6. What Access Control Management Software do you want?
7. The total cost of ownership

To learn more, read our article How to Choose the Best Access Control System.

Summary of the Guide to Access Control Systems

Selecting the right access control system is a strategic decision that impacts security, user experience, type of door reader and door lock, installation cost and time, integration with other security systems, and ease of operation. By carefully considering these factors, you can ensure your system meets your current needs while remaining flexible for future challenges.

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If you need help selecting the best Access Control System, please call us at 1-800-431-1658 in the USA or 914-944-3425 worldwide or use our contact form.