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Commercial security is one of the biggest challenges facing businesses today. It’s essential for businesses to protect themselves by using the latest advancements in the field of security like a key fob office entry system—this allows you to control who enters your building, and when, with much more precision than a metal key. 

Key FOB vs Key Card for Office Access Control Systems

Key fobs are a form of keyless security. Instead of relying on traditional keys to open doors, you can use fobs to open doors electronically. Fobs are easy and convenient to use and can upgrade the security of a business

Key fobs interact with readers, which lock and unlock doors. Keys and readers communicate with each other using radio-frequency identification (RFID).  They contain antennas and microchips that allow them to share their unique IDs with the reader, and when the reader recognizes that ID, it unlocks the door.

Because key fobs use radio signals, RFID is exceptionally difficult to hack, making it one of the most secure ways to lock a door.

Key card access control systems are another option for security aside from traditional keys. Most modern key cards use RFID, just like fobs, because they are more secure than magnetic key cards. 

Magnetic key cards are often seen in hotels, and they work by storing data in the magnetic strip. This type of key card is easy to copy and can be damaged by magnets or wear and tear. Credit cards use this technology, though many are switching to chips because they’re more secure.

Both key cards and fobs are secure options for access control systems, but they provide that security in different formats.

Types of Key Fobs

There are two primary types of key fobs, the passive and the active. Each one functions differently.

Passive key fobs are the most affordable option. They tend to be small, and they don’t need to have batteries. They are activated by the presence of an RFID reader, which sends a request to them. They’re also read-only, meaning you cannot write over or edit the data they contain. 

They tend to have a very limited range, meaning you can only open doors with them when you are in close proximity. Some fobs are semi-passive, containing a battery that lets them function with a wider range. 

Active fobs, on the other hand, are the higher-end, more expensive option. These contain a battery that allows them to work across distances up to 100 feet. 

These fobs can be written over with new information when necessary. Their increased functionality means they’re also larger, but they can still fit on a key ring.

Types of Key Cards

There are a few main options when it comes to key cards.

The first kind of key card is a swipe card. You’ve likely encountered this kind of entry card at hotels. They have the same black magnetic strip as credit cards, allowing them to hold a lot of data. 

These key cards are popular at hotels because they can be overwritten with new information when necessary. This keeps hotel rooms safe even if someone loses or keeps a key—they can change the ID needed to get into a room.

Smart cards are another type of key card. These use RFID just like key fobs, and they allow you to open doors with your proximity. They’re able to open doors within small proximity, often just a few inches. Still, they are more convenient than traditional keys.

Benefits of Key Fob and Card Access

Key fobs and cards are two similar forms of technology, but they have different advantages in different situations.

Both of these systems limit unauthorized entries into a building, which is a major win for commercial security. The most modern version of both of these uses RFID, a very secure form of electronic lock. 

Key fobs are simple and low-profile, which is perfect for certain work environments. They’re also easy to order and don’t require custom printing like some key cards might. They’re easy to replace because they don’t need to be custom printed.

Key cards, on the other hand, can display printed information in a way that fobs cannot. You can have a name, photo, and more printed on a key card, which is useful if employees need to display an ID at the door or scan an ID barcode for any reason. 

Disadvantages of Key Card and Fob Access

No system is perfect, and keys and fobs have their own share of disadvantages. Some business owners may find this system a good fit for their needs, but others may not want to take the leap. 

Key cards unfortunately can’t provide remote access. Instead, they must be held up directly to the reader or inserted, depending on the type of key card. Most commercial key fob door entry systems have a wider range than key cards, however.

One of the biggest drawbacks of using a key card or fob to access buildings is the possibility of losing the credential. This is easily replaceable, but there is a cost to this. The lost fob can be deactivated in the access control system. 

Should You Get a Key Card or Key Fob Access Control System?

Offices are always looking for ways to improve security and safety, and access control systems are one of the best ways to do that. If you’re considering a key card or key fob system, here are some things to consider.

Either one of these access control systems allows you to track people’s entries into the building, providing you with valuable data. This data is especially helpful in the case of any suspicious or criminal activity.

Key cards are useful because they can contain printed information, like photo identification or a scannable barcode. Fobs are a bit more limited because they are small and designed to open doors via RFID, but they are more discreet.

Ultimately, the best choice for your business will likely depend on the company culture, whether the company needs better security and convenience options.

Takeaways

Key cards and key fobs are both great, secure ways to access a building. They allow businesses a high degree of control over who can enter parts of a building, and they monitor the use of entryways. 

Key cards can double as work identification and can be stored easily in a wallet. Key fobs are simple and have a wide range, and they’re often the most convenient to use.

Whatever you choose, we can help you find the best cloud access control system for your individual needs, contact us at Action 1st Loss Prevention today.

Seamless entry into a place of business can make things far more convenient for all the staff and employees in a building. A key fob office entry system gives you the benefits of quick entry with the security and precision of modern technology.

How to Use Key FOB Entry Systems for Your Business

A key fob entry system is one way to give your business a high-tech security boost and a closer method of tracking entries into the building.

Key fobs allow you to open doors electronically using proximity-based technology. The fob reacts to a reader that recognizes each key’s signature and unlocks the door. 

The system’s readers use radio-frequency identification (RFID), to recognize a key fob. Inside each key fob, there’s a radio antenna that transmits and receives data, as well as a microchip that contains that fob’s unique ID. These two features allow each fob to communicate with the RFID readers and unlock doors. 

Transitioning to a fob entry system involves installing RFID receivers at important entryways to make sure only authorized individuals can get through. You can use them to restrict access to certain areas of a building, just like with traditional keys.

For example, a retail store might need a reader at the office door, but not the front door where customers enter. An office building might install readers at each door leading to the outside, and a few important rooms as well. 

Modern key fobs are very difficult to replicate, and they’re also easy to overwrite or deactivate. Instead of going through the expensive and inconvenient process of changing out locks, you can update the locks electronically instead.

Benefits of Key Fob System

A key fob system has several unique advantages over a traditional system with physical keys for each door. It offers practicality, advanced technology, and convenience. 

Traditional key sets can be unwieldy and frustrating to use as well as easy to duplicate. A different key is needed for each locked door, potentially leading to a crowded key ring for some staff members. By contrast, a key fob system gives you unique control over employee’s access to an office building. 

Imagine a keyless security system at your place of work. The issue with traditional keys is the security risk they pose where a lock can be picked, and all it takes is a trip to the hardware store to copy most keys. 

Key fob systems, on the other hand, have a security advantage. Modern key fobs are much harder to copy than a traditional key, ensuring that only authorized individuals are able to get into your building.

There’s no way to pick an electronic lock, so this security system helps deter crimes of opportunity. In addition, the RFID format is virtually inaccessible to hackers, as well. 

A fob system works across a large range of scales, from small businesses to large ones. Key fobs are relatively affordable, and the difficulty in copying them keeps your building safer. Instead of worrying about each misplaced fob, you can simply deactivate fobs that you no longer want or need to use.

Applications

Key fob systems are a logical choice for public buildings of all kinds, from offices to apartment complexes. If you find traditional keys to be inconvenient and expensive, consider updating your building to use fobs instead.

For Commercial Spaces, Offices and Businesses

In commercial spaces, it’s vital to stay on top of security advances and learn about new technology. Here are some of the best reasons to use commercial key fob door entry systems in an office or other business facilities. 

In a large commercial building, you may need to make entryways accessible to a wide range of people, from managers to janitors. Among such a large cast of staff, there are bound to be lost keys or occasional employee turnover. 

Fobs are programmable and the locks can be updated electronically, so you have much less chance of former employees entering buildings. 

Since each person has their own key fob, it’s possible to closely monitor and record entries into the building. Some entry systems will even send notifications to alert you about unusual activity. 

For Residential Buildings and Apartments

Some apartment and residential buildings are experimenting with using key fobs instead of traditional keys.

One major benefit of this security system is that this kind of key is much harder to copy than traditional keys. That adds to the security and diminishes the chances of unauthorized keys floating around among friends and family. 

In rentals and apartment buildings, tenants may come and go. There’s ample time for them to make copies of traditional keys, which can pose a problem when they move out. 

With key fobs, you can simply deactivate former tenants’ fobs and lock them out of buildings they are no longer allowed to access. The process is simple and far less time-consuming than changing physical locks.

Apartment buildings can use a key fob system to protect areas like leasing offices, maintenance rooms, and more. They’re also helpful for restricting the amenities in an apartment complex, such as the laundry room, pool, or gym. 

Takeaways

Key fob systems provide advantages over traditional lock-and-key systems because they use technology to keep buildings safe. They’re easier to manage and update than physical locks, and increased control means improved security. 

Fobs are a reliable and convenient replacement for keys, and they use technology that’s difficult to hack. This option is a security upgrade because it gives you more control over who can open doors in your business, and allows you to update the locks whenever you need to.

Electronic access systems are sophisticated but easy to use. We can connect you to cloud-based access control systems that will transform security in your commercial building, contact us at Action 1st Loss Prevention today.

Action 1st Loss Prevention offers Key FOB entry systems for Commercial Buildings, Offices, Warehouses, Schools, Health Facilities, Multi Family Homes, Apartment Buildings and Gyms. We install fob door locks which is similar to key card door locks for convenience and security.

When you have set up a business through your own efforts, you have to make shttps://www.action1st.com/key-fob-access-controlure that your buildings are properly protected. You can find a number of different types of  security systems which will allow you increasing control over your entry points. But if you want something modern and interesting, then you would do well to try a smart device such as a key fob office entry system, which offers you the benefit of extra security while still allowing people to come and go in your home.

When you come to Action 1st, you can get help with every stage of the process, from finding high-quality locking systems like key FOB door lock that serves the right purpose, to finding brand new entry card codes which will allow you to give access to everyone that needs it.

Understanding Your Keyless Locking Systems and Door Locks for Security

A keyless system is very different to the traditional lock. Rather than relying upon a locking system which requires the right key to be put into the lock in order to gain access, these keyless entry systems allow you to gain access through a simple card, which can be given to your employees so that they can gain access. The card can be easily replaced if lost, and it is much easier to cope with than having to have your lock system re-keyed to prevent access by unwanted people. You can also make use of the ability to quickly change the cards to alter permissions - so for example if you have a sudden need to make parts of your building restricted access, then you can do this easily, rather than having to change all of the locks.

Finding the Right Keyless Entry System for Commercial Facilities

The type of keyless system that you need will depend very much upon what you are looking for from your access points. You might want to have locks which allow a large number of people through - for example at the entrance to your building, but also need a number of secure entry points that restrict people. Do you want to have the effort of updating all of the locks, or do you only intend to have a few systems in place at key points? You should also consider the type of security system that you need, whether that is a card access, a keypad, or even access through smartphone codes.

Talk to Key FOB Experts for Remote Keyless Entry System!

When you need help with all manner of smart locks, you should be talking to the experts at Action 1st. We can help you to work out exactly what type of locking system will be best for you and your staff.

We can assist you with finding a key fob office entry system that will match with the needs of your business, preventing intrusion but also not delaying access to those who want to be there. If you need help with putting keyless systems into your Orange County business, then we can help you. Simply contact us online, or call us at (949) 828-3008 today.

Frequently Asked Questions on Key FOBs?

What Are Key Fobs?

A key fob is a compact, programmable hardware device that allows you to access a physical item. Key fobs, also known as hardware tokens, can be used to give one-factor authentication to things like doors and autos on-device.

Key fob access control systems can also be used as an authentication factor for items like computers that require two-factor or multifactor authentication. Smart cards, proximity cards, and biometric keyless entry fobs are all examples of physical security tokens, as are key fobs.

Hardware tokens are typically small enough to fit on a key ring, in a wallet, or in a pocket. When a key fob is stolen or misplaced, it is more likely to be noticed than when a password is compromised.

Why Are Key FOBs Used?

Key fobs are used with a wide range of access control systems and provide a simple way for small enterprises to regulate access to their facilities. They're becoming more popular because of their ease of use and customizability, which allows business owners to regulate who has access to which doors, view entry and exit records, and adjust access when their workforce changes.

Where Are Key FOBs Used?

For gated and apartment communities, hotels, parking garages, businesses with numerous employees, or buildings with limited areas, such as a stockroom, technical space, or a laboratory, key fobs can be a handy and secure solution. Commercial key fob door entry systems are extensively used to allow access to gym clients, neighbors with a shared pool facility, and students on campus.

Is a Key FOB Access Control Considered Keyless Entry?

Yes, key fobs are considered keyless entry.

When the key fob is in close proximity to the access device reader, the commercial key fob door lock system unlocks the door or gate, allowing only authorized individuals to enter. The access system can be set to limit or block entry at any moment, and each credential device has a personal identifying number.

Key fobs will not unlock the door unless the user has been granted the appropriate access permissions via a security application that has been programmed.

How Do You Unlock a Door with a Key Fob?

A keyless door lock functions similarly to a traditional key lock; the locking mechanism rotates inwards or outwards depending on whether the door is locked or unlocked. You'll have to utilize different methods to lock or unlock the door depending on the sort of keyless door lock you have.

A key fob is a rather straightforward device. The device will contain a mechanism that will link to the fob's mechanism. The door will unlock when the fob is placed on the gadget.

What are the Costs of a Key Fob Door Lock System?

The installation cost of key fob systems for business is similar to that of a key card: $1,500-3,500 per door. However, the more doors that a building has on access control, the cost per door typically reduces..

The total cost is determined on the technology that powers your key fob system as well as the number of doors you want to lock. It's usually advisable to receive a quote for a more precise estimate.

Can I Program a Key FOB to My Phone?

Some fob readers have Bluetooth technology built into it. This allows for the use of a mobile credential. There are a wide variety of mobile ready readers for an access control system. Contact Action 1st to discuss these options further.

Can a Key FOB Door Lock be Tracked?

The access control system can display a report called an audit trail. This audit trail can show you all the information of who accessed any given door at a particular time. This can be filtered by door, person, fob number, date, and time. Tracking who entered the apartment complex can be an important step to setting up your security.

Are Key Fobs Secure?

When it comes to current security locks, traditional keys are easy to misplace, copy, and are plain archaic. Every authorized user of door fob entry systems must have a unique credential that grants them entrance to the building. This minimizes the odds of an intruder getting access by stealing or copying a traditional key. There are various security levels of fobs.

Contact Action 1st to discuss the different security levels of fobs.

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