Managing a business necessitates a distinct set of skills and mindset, as it involves a group of people who must collaborate for a common purpose. As a result, the need for a secure building access control system in every office complex is widely acknowledged.
Security technology is now being used to save lives, property, and other valuable items in today's society of increased facility security awareness. Keyless entry access control devices are essential for securing a facility and keeping workers safe and productive.
What Are Building Access Control Systems?
Building access control is a security technique that governs who or what can view or use resources in a computing environment. It is a fundamental security concept that reduces risk to the business or organization.
To secure a facility, organizations use building security access control systems that track employee access to restricted business locations and proprietary areas, such as data centers, using user credentials, access card readers, auditing, and reports.
Some of these systems include physical access control panels to restrict entry to access points and alarms and lockdown capabilities to prevent unauthorized access or operations.
Why Use Access Control System?
Aside from the convenience of not needing a key to unlock the door, commercial access control systems for commercial office buildings offer several advantages over traditional systems.
Improved Building Security and Employee Safety
Because a commercial access control system requires each user to have their own credential, gaining access without authorized credentials becomes increasingly tricky. Once access has been granted, and the door has been closed, building or facility entrances can be programmed to lock automatically, reducing the risk of unauthorized entry and the theft of valuable equipment.
Easier to Manage
Commercial access control systems are an important investment for any business, large or small. Aside from the convenience of not needing a key to unlock the door, access control systems and cloud-based access control for commercial office buildings offer several advantages over traditional systems.
Flexible
Credentials are set up for each individual who is granted access. This enables customized access based on who holds the credential. As a result, one person may be granted full access while another may be granted restricted access to specific areas and may only enter during a specific time period and day.
Factors to Consider When Installing Access Control System
There are numerous electronic access control systems on the market. So, how do you select the best commercial access control system for your building?
- Ease of Use - Is it easy to manage the user interface? Will users need to be trained on how to use it, or is it simple?
- Integration - Will it integrate with your directory or human resources system? Will it integrate with your existing video surveillance systems and equipment?
- Hardware Compatibility - Is the system compatible with third-party hardware such as cameras, door locks, and so on, or does it require proprietary hardware?
- Mobile Compatibility - Is a mobile app available? Is it possible for authorized users to make changes from anywhere?
- Authentication Types - For access identification, there are numerous authentication options available. Determine which type of authentication is best for you and how secure it must be.
- Reporting Capabilities - What kinds of reports can you generate using the system? Is it easy to create these reports?
- System Scalability - Is it easy to add more hardware if necessary?
- Software Updates - What method will be used to install software updates? Is it an automatic process or one that must be completed by staff?
Purpose of Installation
Physical security requirements are constantly changing. As a result, property managers, building owners, and even small businesses are increasingly using office access control systems and keyless entry.
The basic function of a building access control system is to keep unwanted guests out or, at the very least, to control access. A storage facility can benefit from both a gate entry system and a keyless entry system for individual storage units.
Role-based access control systems and mandatory access control systems can be integrated with other operations and security systems in addition to controlling access to your premises. Additional features to consider include alarm monitoring that will take action if an intruder gets in, as well as software that will track time and attendance for your employees.
The Type of Locking Devices and Systems to Be Used
There are various types of office door access control systems that differ in terms of how they operate, the technologies that power them, and other factors.
Key Card or Key Fob
Users are given a key card or key fob that contains magnetic strips or microchips that contain information about the cardholder's access permissions or restrictions. These are presented to the door reader, who either accepts or rejects entry.
Keypad
To gain access to doors, users enter an assigned code into a keypad. Devices can be reprogrammed if a code is compromised and needs to be changed.
Mobile Access Control
To gain access to a building and its rooms, mobile access control systems use mobile devices such as smartphones, tablets, and smartwatches as a user's credential. To open a gate or door using these types of physical access controls, users simply tap a button in a mobile app or bring their smartphones close to the reader.
Video Access Control
Video access control systems record all entry events and requests on video. These systems include a camera, allowing building staff and tenants to visually confirm a visitor's identity before granting them access.
The Cost of Installation
The average cost of office security systems access control ranges from $1,000 to $4,000 per door. A number of factors influence the overall cost of an access control system and its installation, including:
- Hardware and software requirements
- The number of key fobs or key cards that must be distributed.
- Integration with other systems.
- Motion sensors, visitor management, and other add-on features.
Access Control and Security System Integration
Integrating access control systems for office buildings with other security devices will benefit your business the most, both in terms of return to the office and overall safety. Security systems, fire safety systems, and security cameras, to name a few, can all be integrated with access control.
Secure Your Business with Action 1st
Do you need assistance with installing or looking for the best building access control systems for your business? Contact us today so we can assist you in finding what you're looking for.
Action 1st Loss Prevention carries a variety of access control models and provides high-quality keyless entry system installation. We offer alternatives that can work with your existing system or assist you in selecting an access control upgrade.
Call us today at 800-675-3015 for a free on-site review and learn more about how we can help you select the best access control system for your needs.
