With the arrival of smartphones in the twenty-first century, computers have essentially been put in everyone’s hands. While the technology may be a distraction to some, smartphones have made things like mobile credentials and cloud-based access control simpler than ever.
Mobile access control, however, isn’t just about smartphones and relies heavily upon another technology called Bluetooth.
In this article, we will discuss exactly what Bluetooth technology is and how it relates to a cloud-based access control system to give you a better understanding of how the technology works. To learn more, continue reading below.
HOW DOES BLUETOOTH ACCESS CONTROL TECHNOLOGY WORK?
Bluetooth, like other short-range wireless access control technologies, can be used effectively as an access control technology.
With the advent of smartphones and modern access control systems, the Bluetooth security system suite has grown at an ever-increasing rate in recent years.
This security system commonly used by cloud-based access control manufacturers to allow individuals attempting to gain access to a particular building or facility to communicate with remote Bluetooth readers using the cell phone credentials on their smartphone.
Bluetooth readers can communicate with a user’s device without the need for manual pairing. They also have enough bandwidth to power a secure connection, allowing workers’ devices to communicate with a remote reader from just a few feet away.
In a typical access control system, you’ll need a proximity reader that can read Bluetooth signals. Then, on a user’s smartphone, a software application is installed, and the application is then profiled for access security purposes.
When the smartphone is close to the proximity of the Bluetooth reader, the software application on the phone communicates with the reader, verifies the user’s credentials, and exchanges the security key to authenticate and unlock the door.
One of the best ways to achieve peace of mind when it comes to protecting your business and the building’s occupants is to use Bluetooth access control systems. Because of its increased security, efficiencies, and lower costs, it is becoming a primary choice for many organizations looking to improve access control.
Let’s take a look at some of the advantages that a Bluetooth access control system provides your business below.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF USING BLUETOOTH IN ACCESS CONTROL?
If you’re considering installing a cloud access control system at your place of business, you may be interested in learning about some of the benefits it can provide.
Here are a few reasons why the change could have a significant impact on your security:
SIMPLE SETUP
It’s simple to set up a Bluetooth connection between two devices. The exact interface for doing so may vary depending on the devices of your staff members, but you essentially must make one device discoverable while the other scans to make a connection between the two devices.
Once the scanning device finds the discoverable device, the user must initiate the connection and enter a Personal Identification Number (PIN) which will be used to authenticate their identity in the future.
That’s it—it’s as simple as that. Once the devices have been paired, there should be no need to reconnect them ever again.
LOW POWER CONSUMPTION
One of the main benefits of using Bluetooth access control systems is that because Bluetooth operates at low power consumption, the said technology won’t significantly reduce the battery life of the user’s smartphone.
Bluetooth remains in standby mode until a connection is established with a reader, and because the connection is only for a few milliseconds, the connections are short, and users will hardly know the exchange took place.
MORE EFFICIENT
Bluetooth mobile credentials make life much easier for your employees and other users, as they won’t have to fumble with bulky key rings.
Now, all the system manager must do is give employees the access they need within the building by simply updating the permissions associated with their mobile ID.
COST SAVINGS
Using Bluetooth access control systems is much less expensive than using traditional forms of access control.
Previously, system administrators had to create and issue tens of thousands of new cards for each employee of the company.
By eliminating the costs of plastic badges, printers, ink, storage, and handling, your business can shift these costs to more critical operational expenses.
IMPROVED SECURITY
Bluetooth has built-in security on two levels. Unlike a traditional wireless connection, Bluetooth signals are not always broadcasting. When a user wants to connect two Bluetooth devices, the user must make them visible, and they can turn off their visibility once you’ve paired it.
The second level of security is that to connect two devices, users always need to authorize the Bluetooth connection with their PIN, as previously mentioned. This means that even if a user’s smartphone Bluetooth is set to “discoverable,” a stranger will not be able to connect to their smartphone or tablet device unless the authorized user manually approves the connection.
NEED HELP WITH YOUR COMPANY’S ACCESS CONTROL SYSTEM?
One of the best ways to achieve peace of mind when it comes to protecting your business and the building’s occupants is through the use of access control systems. For companies looking to implement mobile credentials, Bluetooth technology provides you with an ideal way to ensure you reap the full benefits of your security solution.
If your commercial business is in need of top-notch security, Action 1st Loss Prevention can help.
We can help you choose the cloud-based access control system that best fits your business’s needs and budget. We can also help with the entire installation process and provide full training to ensure that you and your staff get the most out of your security investment.
Whether your current access control system is out of date or you need a new system entirely, how we can help provide your commercial business with the best cloud option possible.
We have more than 30 years of experience in the commercial security industry and are more than capable of assisting your company or business.
For a free on-site consultation and to learn more about how we can help you find the best access control system for your commercial building, contact our team at Action 1st Loss Prevention today!
