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Does My Business Need an Access Control System?

Before determining whether your business could benefit from an access control system, let’s go over the different types and their capabilities. In short, an access control system is a type of security system that lets you control who, where, and when someone can enter or exit your building. There are also four unique ways that access control systems can be managed:

• Key fob or access card
• Mobile phone access
• Pin code or password
• Biometric

These are the most basic and widely used versions of an access control system. These devices typically connect to a key chain or can be stored in a wallet. These handy devices have authentication data built in, and business owners can install door readers at every access point they wish. Access levels can even be personalized by card or fob.

With the ever-expanding possibilities of modern mobile phones, some businesses are shifting to mobile access control systems. Some versions of this access control system use a combination of a smartphone app and your phone’s Bluetooth so that employees can easily enter and exit. Not only can you control physical access, but this can also be used to control access to sensitive data.

This access control system uses a “keyless” approach by placing an alphanumeric keypad at each access point. Employees use assigned unique pins or passwords to either gain access to the building externally or to specific rooms internally, depending on their level of clearance.

The use of biometric data within access control systems is the most advanced and the most foolproof. These types of systems use things like fingerprints, facial recognition, and retinal scanners to grant access. Companies that require high levels of security might engage this type of access control system or use it in conjunction with another form as two-factor authentication.

What are the Benefits of an Access Control System?

Aside from the obvious benefit of restricting entry of unauthorized personnel, there are several secondary benefits that can make your life and your employees’ lives easier. Check out our list below.

• Allows for contactless entry: businesses are choosing to limit direct contact with both employees and visitors to help prevent the unnecessary spread of germs.
• Access can be personalized: each employee or visitor can have personalized levels of access. Employee profiles can easily be edited as permissions are granted or removed.
• Eradicate key issues: businesses aren’t left to rekey their doors as employees leave the company. Since there is no door key associated with access, businesses can instantly deactivate a key fob or access card profile and they don’t have to worry about an employee potentially making a copy.
• Activity logs: with employees having personalized access, businesses can determine entry and exit of each employee. If an incident occurs, a business will know exactly who was there.
• Automated and remote access: specific access can be programmed remotely and can be set for limited access across each level. This can come in handy if vendors need access to your building while you’re away.

Openpath: A Trusted Access Control Partner

FSS Technologies is a premier partner with Openpath, one of the nation’s leaders in commercial access control systems. Customers are consistently choosing Openpath for their modern, high-tech features like integrated video and audio, cloud-based remote management, and a number of other security technology integrations.

If your business is ready to take the next step toward an access control system, FSS Technologies can easily provide a commitment-free estimate and outfit your commercial property with the best in access control system security.