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What are Access Control Systems?

When you’re choosing electronic access control for your facility, it’s important to know how different systems work and how they’re best used. Access control systems combine badging software with time and attendance tools to monitor incoming and outgoing traffic, providing constant security 365 days a year.

Access control systems typically operate through the following steps:

  • An individual presents credentials to a reader
  • The reader sends information from the credentials to a control panel
  • The control panel reads the number on said credential and checks to make sure it matches a number on the access control list
  • The control panel grants access or rejects the request based on whether or not the credentials match
  • A transaction log is sent to a database

However, in cases where someone could give their credentials to another, you can also implement two-factor authorization. If you choose to do this, an individual will still present credentials to instigate the steps above. They will then need to enter a second form of identification such as a PIN number, access card, or fingerprint before being able to enter the property or certain restricted areas in a building.

Benefits of Access Control

There are many benefits to installing access control in your building. Access control systems can:

  • Provide managers with real-time information regarding employee hours and attendance
  • Help track inventory and purchase decisions
  • Limit access to certain restricted areas
  • Be easily customized
  • Reduce lock problems and eliminate costs associated with lock changing
  • Be integrated with video surveillance
  • And more!
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