Access Control Systems
Access Control Security Systems
We can offer the most comprehensive security solution for your home or business. We can install and set up access systems for major businesses looking to upgrade their security. If you’re a business looking to monitor the access of your employees, we can help. We are aware that dealing with access control systems can be somewhat intimidating. This is because there are quite a few technical terms to consider and understand. Since everyone in the organization must know how the access control system works, it’s necessary to train them on how to use them properly. It is also necessary to make sure the access control system is properly installed in every location where it is necessary.
The first things any organization should know about, even before they begin the installation are the following:
- Components: Everyone, especially installers, should know all the pieces of the access control system and how they work together.
- Who Has Access: Every organization should know why they chose a particular access control system, who has access, and why they have access.
- Costs: Every organization should know how much its access control system costs and know how it fits into its mission.
- Setup and Operation: Organizations should make sure the access control system they choose is working properly and is set up and operated to its greatest benefit.
What is an Access Control System?
Put simply; an access control system is anything that allows an organization to manage, monitor and maintain who has access to various internal systems. The simplest access control system is a deadbolt lock with only those you want to have access receiving a key.
These days, an access control system can control access to almost anything, including certain computer files, or it can restrict access to workstations or printers. Such a system can also control access to certain offices or any secured areas of your building, including conference rooms and storage facilities. The standard form of access control tends to be the use of an “access card,” which takes the place of a key these days. With the access card programmed accordingly, you can restrict, monitor and control access to only those employees who you feel should have access to specific areas. It also allows the organization to control costs, by monitoring who did what when, and for how long. For example, if someone is using the copy machine to copy entire books, you will know who was doing so and when, and how many copies they made.
Solutions to Access Control
It should include the most advanced software; one that combines the newest and most advanced security technologies with the best available networking capabilities. Some organizations immediately call a local security consultant or specialist, but many of the most basic details regarding access can be gotten for free, just from online research. While it is not necessary to learn everything you need to know about access control yourself, knowing most things will save you from ripping your hair out when someone starts talking about access control systems, and they know what they’re talking about, but don’t.
How Does an Access Control System Work?
These days, workers from many walks of life carry some sort of access card or badge, which means they are using an access control system. When they swipe their card, a lot is going on behind the scenes before the door lock is released and the worker can just enter the door.
The fact of the matter is every access control system is connected to a server containing an access database where all of the permissions are stored. When the worker scans their badge or card, the server accepts the data on that card and decides whether or not the card presented has the proper credentials authorized for that door, workstation, printer, or other area or device.
The server isn’t always on site. It can be, of course, but it can also be on a cloud server. Cloud servers have become more popular these days because more and more businesses are operating in multiple locations, and having a server at each location can be difficult to manage and maintain. More than simply accessing existing data, a good access control system also creates new data, including the times and identification of those seeking access and many other types of information. For example, such a system can keep track of time and costs for billing purposes.
Installing an Access Control System
When you decide to have an access control system installed, it may take a few days to confirm the installation and the materials and parts needed to install it, but once they begin the installation, they will do the following;
- First, they will run the cables connecting the internet and power, since you have to do that before you can connect anything.
- Then, they will install the locks, which may be a magnetic, electric strike, or electrified mortise locks. That may mean cutting into the door frame.
- They will then install the access control panel in the IT room, or wherever the server is located. They may also install a backup power supply and other security hardware, depending on the organization’s needs.
- The installers will then install the readers at the door. These are easy; they usually only have to be connected to power and screwed flat against the wall, although many readers have to be connected to the Internet, as well.
- The next step is to test everything after it’s all been set up. This has to happen after everything has been installed, to configure the software correctly and make sure everything has been set up properly.
- After that, installers will urge the organization to run through the processes and set up a door access schedule, so that you know when each person or group is supposed to be where and using which doors or areas of the workplace each worker or group should be at a given time. They will also have to set up rules for the access control software and test them to see if they work.
If you are looking to install an access control system or hire a security guard to monitor the access to your commercial space then give us a call.