4 Emerging Trends in Access Control Systems for Businesses

Technology advancements in access control systems have revolutionized how companies manage their physical security. Today, companies no longer rely on key control systems to secure their premises. Robust access control systems provide safety, convenience, and flexibility as many companies alter their work models to accommodate hybrid arrangements. Explore some top access control system trends below.

1. Mobile Access Control

Mobile access control systems have become viable alternatives to key cards and fobs. Your employees will welcome the idea of using mobile devices as security credentials as they take their phones everywhere.

This access control system leverages Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Near Field Communication (NFC) technologies to manage people's movements in a building. When an employee comes close to a door, they place their phone near the access control reader, which picks up the signal, verifies the phone's access credentials, and opens the door. 

Mobile access control systems enhance your building's security since people are less likely to lose their phones than key cards and fobs. In case of loss, an employee notices a missing phone quickly, and you can promptly revoke the device's credentials. Also, most phones have the option to require a password, pattern, or facial or fingerprint recognition to unlock. 

2. Biometric Technology

The major vulnerability with traditional access control systems is bad actors can steal key fobs, key cards, and IDs, or employees can lose these physical tokens. If employees use passwords or PIN codes, they can share this information with unauthorized people. 

Biometric technology eliminates this disadvantage by using physical characteristics like a fingerprint, iris scan, facial recognition, and palm vein. Each biometric has its advantages and disadvantages. 

For instance, many people use fingerprints to operate their phones, making this method familiar and convenient. However, cuts and bruises may affect the scanner's accuracy. Fingerprint readers are also less sanitary than other biometrics like facial recognition and iris scans. 

When you adopt a biometric access control system, pay attention to security, usability, and acceptability. For example, some employees may distrust facial recognition and iris scans but gladly sign up for fingerprint recognition. Select a robust and accurate system that rejects fake biometrics. 

Beyond improved security, biometric technology is convenient to use, as employees don't have to carry cards, fobs, or mobile devices around. Also, you don't have to replace lost physical access tokens, resulting in cost savings. 

3. Cloud-Based Access Control Systems

For a long time, businesses have used on-site access control systems, where you purchase and maintain servers and other hardware. However, many firms are shifting to cloud-based access control systems, which let you remotely grant and monitor access to business locations.

The primary benefit of cloud-based access control systems is managing access to multiple sites from a central hub. For instance, a business with many branches or locations can easily manage access levels across all sites via one platform. With an on-site system, security teams from various branches have to communicate in advance to prepare for the arrival of employees from other locations.

Scalability is another advantage of cloud-based access control systems. If you are a growing firm and often hire seasonal contractors and interns, such a system makes it easy to grant and deny access rights.

4. Multi-Factor Authentication

Modern businesses face various security threats, such as hacking, phishing, and scams. As a result, firms want ultra-secure access control systems to prevent physical and digital threats.

A multi-layered approach to security is a great way to enhance business security. For instance, you can require employees to provide a password and fingerprint at entry areas or tap into a security app on their phone and display their company ID. 

At Dixie Safe & Lock, we stay on top of the industry's trends to protect our clients' assets. Modern access control systems are more secure and convenient than before, including mobile access, biometric technology, and cloud-based access control systems. Contact our security experts today to explore your options for controlled access.