Access Control Technology: A Look at Door Entry Systems and Available Options

Door entry systems or access control systems are meant to guarantee restricted access to specific areas. They also provide enhanced security regarding the entry into premises. They can range from manual locks and electronic keypads to biometric security systems that require identity verifications before granting access. The door entry systems can also be used as tools that help to manage movement in a facility. As such, they ease the management of access authorization taking away the need to replace lost keys or repose the keys used by terminated staff as well as the manual control of access to specified sections of a building.
 
Speak to a specialist locksmith, Edinburgh and find out what will work for you.
 

The Purpose of a Door Entry System

Overall, businesses or premises benefit significantly from having quality, robust, door entry systems. Appreciating such benefits comes from understanding how the systems are of help, their primary role being to keep out anyone who does not have authorized access. The entry systems can be fitted in the doors of data storage rooms, the main entrance and other designated doors, the parking garage and any other entry point to sensitive areas in a building.
 
In this modern age, the most basic of entry security systems use a swipe or keypad feature. However, other higher systems use advanced security features that request multiple authentications (for instance, a key and voice-activated authentication).
 
When deciding on which system to install, it is essential that you take into account the redundancy levels you find suitable for your business. As such, you will need to delve deeper into the various technologies available to know how each works and its benefits.
 

Types of Door Access Control Systems

1. Stand-Alone Locks

The stand-alone locks are a common choice for controlled access on single doors. The locks are electronic and are powered by replaceable batteries and can be locked and unlocked using a card, keypad or a combination of the two. The simplicity in fitting and function that allows them to be operational immediately after installation is one of the top benefits of stand-alone locks. The market has some versions that have readers that can extract data from the lock for auditing. Such locks work best for managed access to areas with highly sensitive data but will suffice when used in a broader network.
 

2. Proximity Readers

Most commercial buildings today prefer these door entry systems. They have sensors that scan a person for the access keys or card and open automatically when an individual is but a few inches from the door. Card replacement for the system is not complicated, and the same applies to the deactivation or the cards. The technology employs different features include photo IDs. People that have the authorized entry do not need to push or pull the door than to the sensors. Moreover, the systems are relatively cheap to install and easy to manage.
 

3. Biometric Systems

With the biometric systems, the technology is designed to scan or read the physical characteristics of an individual to identify their authentication for entry. They can read handprints, facial features, fingerprints, and facial features. The biometric entry control systems are by far the most secure option, but they are also the most expensive access control methods. Some people and organizations opt not to use the biometric systems because they find them invasive. The biometric door entry systems are an ideal choice for places with minimal human traffic.