Businesses are embracing emerging technology more than ever these days. Companies have benefitted in so many ways from the technology – like precise data analysis, marketing, accounting, project management, etc. But one often overlooked area where technology has helped businesses is property security, primarily through door access system solutions.
New door access systems use technology to control who opens and closes these doors, making business properties far more secure. This has certainly contributed to the steady decline in property theft in the US.
A door access control system not only deters burglary; it helps to protect businesses from internal threats like employee theft. It also creates a digital paper trail to see who accessed an area in case anything happens, which is beneficial for police reports and insurance claims if a crime occurs.
There are three primary types of door access systems that can control who is allowed to enter a door and be used to set parameters (such as times when access is denied). These are digital ID badges, mobile credentials, and visual verification for door access systems.
But which is the best for your business? Let’s find out.
Digital ID Badges for Door Access Systems
Traditional physical ID badges have been used for a long time for door access control. But digital ID badges are accessed through a smartphone, so employees have them on-hand more readily.
There are many benefits to opting for digital ID badges compared to photo IDs. First, photo IDs can be duplicated – and there is the risk of losing the card or having it stolen. Digital ID cards have multiple layers of security as offered through the phone, such as Face ID or lock code to access the card. These are very easy to use, distribute, and are a fairly inexpensive option compared to printing physical cards.
Most digital IDs are provided through an app. So, it can also be used to issue push notifications, such as announcements, safety issues, or other types of alerts. Admin can easily revoke access to digital cards instantly.
Now, there are some downsides to this type of door access control system. For one, if the employee’s phone is not working or the battery dies, they won’t have access to their digital card. And again, there is the possibility of people circumventing the security by hacking the phone or account – but with a good security provider, this will be nearly impossible.
Mobile Credentials Door Access Verification
Now, mobile credentials are not to be confused with digital ID cards, even though they both use phones to operate. This door access system is similar to using key fobs. This option uses Bluetooth or over WiFi to open a door when a smartphone is in the vicinity.
When the phone is in the vicinity of the door reader, it will automatically unlock. Most businesses opt for a shorter distance range of 5 feet, but this distance can be extended if necessary. Added security features may also be used to trigger the door access system, such as biometrics (i.e. the phone has to be unlocked with a thumbprint).
One of the greatest benefits of this door access solution is convenience. This is a hands-free option that allows personnel to access entry points quickly and easily, especially if their hands are full. These systems can also collect access data from multiple sources, such as if two people are nearby the entry point.
Mobile credentialing systems also have added encryption for digital security. Not only is the mobile device encrypted, but the reader also adds another encryption layer as it transmits the data. This helps to protect against cyber-security threats, which are very prevalent for businesses these days.
There are potential weak points with this system, however, such as if the employee’s phone is off or not working correctly. Further, if the access range is too long, unauthorized personnel can open the door – which was unlocked by someone else’s phone.
Visual Verification for Door Access System
The final option is visual verification for the door access system. Cameras will capture an image or video of the person at the entry point – and security can then let them in. These images are transmitted in real-time. Access is granted once the identification is confirmed.
Video or visual verification for door access system can also be used as a backup security option when an alarm is triggered. For instance, say that a person has entered in a passcode several times incorrectly. The first line of defense may be to use visual verification to see if there is a threat before a full-system alarm goes off.
Visual verification combines the power of technology with human intelligence for added security. This type of door access control system ensures that only one person can be given access at a time – and their credentials cannot be compromised. Images can be stored for reference and footage can be shared instantly with authorities if necessary.
The real downside to visual verification is the added manpower needed to keep this system running. If a company has a security team on-site, at least one person will need to monitor the door access camera feeds at all times. Virtual guard services can manage this off-site, but they will need a full list of images for authorized personnel.
There is also going to be a slight delay in access when using this approach. It may take several seconds for the visual ID to be approved. There are also potential issues, such as if people are wearing facemasks.
The Wrap
Keeping your business safe and secure should be a top priority, no matter your company’s size, location, or industry. Having any type of door access verification system is essential for keeping your business property safe at all times. Each type is designed to benefit and improve entry point security. The real question is which one is going to be best for your business, specifically.
If you have any further questions and want to learn more about each type of door access control system, please contact 2Krew or call 724-543-0274. We specialize in both commercial and residential security and surveillance solutions and we’d be more than happy to help you decide which type of door access verification system is the best fit.
