While year-round security is crucial for protecting your business, employees & assets, the holiday season can leave you especially susceptible to theft. With shorter business hours and holiday breaks, your business may be empty more than usual. This season, gift yourself peace of mind by installing a secure access control for your business. To get you started, here is a brief overview of Access Systems and how they can help keep your assets safe 24/7.

What is an Access System & How Does It work?

Access Systems allow digital control for businesses that uses an electronic device to grant entry into your building without requiring a traditional lock and key. This type of system uses an electronic sensor instead of a typical metal key to manage building entry — requiring users to have an approved credential that authenticates their identity and communicates with the access control locks through proximity.

Whether you’re tired of keeping track of lost or stolen keys, your company has multiple locations, or you have increased security concerns, switching to an Access System will make day-to-day entry operations more convenient for managers and employees alike.

3 Benefits of an Access System

Remote Access
The back-end software integrated with Access Systems allows managers to control settings and unlock security doors from anywhere. This feature is helpful for organizations that manage multiple locations and need to grant users access at various times without having to be on-site to do so.

Remote access also allows businesses to provide temporary access to users, which creates a seamless and secure solution for businesses like hotels that have users, contractors, or visitors coming and going frequently.

1. No Keys to Keep Track Of

   Employees losing their keys can be a huge hassle — often requiring changing all locks to prevent security breaches. An Access Control System makes handling key misplacement and employee turnover significantly more manageable. 

2. Improved Data Insights for Better Security
   Compared to traditional lock-and-key methods, the specialized software of access systems offers much more access control data. For example, many advanced control systems track entry activity in real time.
   
   Managers can also configure notifications to alert them of security breaches or emergencies, enabling quick and efficient reactions to threats. In addition, many electronic door entry systems also use end-to-end encryption to protect user data, making it harder for intruders to hack into data.

Cons of an Access System

1. Installation Costs

   The costs for installing an Access System are always higher than a traditional one due to the required advanced technology features and installation expertise. However, digital access can save you or your business money in the long run by lowering operational costs, maintenance fees, replacement costs, and minimizing theft. 

2. Power Failure or Malfunction

   All electronic hardware devices come with the risk of malfunctioning, and losing power is a situation that could cause the technology to fail. When we install a system, we'll inform new users of the fail-safe measures put into place to ensure you don't get locked out. Having a backup power source and a foolproof plan of action will protect you in the event of a power outage or glitch.

3. Forgetting Your Code

   Forgetting a code happens to the best of us, especially with the many codes and passwords we keep track of in our daily lives. Be sure to write down your code in a secure, accessible place and change your code from time to time in case buttons get worn with frequent use, giving thieves a hint to what your combination might be.

Types of Access Systems

Determining the optimum type of Access System for a company is based on an organization's size, security budget, and desired system features. The most popular commercial access control technologies are proximity key cards, key fobs, keypad entry, mobile credentials, biometrics, or any combination of these.

* Although 125 kHz radio frequency proximity cards are widely used for electronic access, LMC does not recommend the use of them. We’re aware of recent developments that threaten their security status, such as being easily duplicated due to readily available devices for cloning or copying the cards. Contact our offices today to learn more.

Key Fobs

Key fobs are compact, lightweight electronic keys that may be programmed to unlock several doors by employing back-end access control software.

Keypad Entry

With keypad door entry, users simply enter a code or PIN number instead of having a physical credential.

Mobile Credentials

App-based access control is super convenient and often more secure than other keyless door entries for businesses.

Biometrics

Facial recognition, iris scanning, and fingerprint scanning are examples of biometrics. As a form of two-factor authentication for access control, biometric credentials are frequently used in conjunction with a more conventional credential, such as a key card or ID badge.

Contact LMC Today

We understand that you have unique needs and goals for your business. Our team is dedicated to providing the best-tailored solutions to meet those needs. At LMC we strive to provide proactive solutions and customized services that guarantee your safety and security. We’re equipped to install and service a wide range of systems and products, including intrusion detection, access control, and video surveillance, and we will walk you through proper use and protocols. Contact us today to ensure your equipment is functioning properly for your greatest satisfaction.