THOUGHT CENTER > Blog > Access Controls
September 27, 2023
Too busy to read? Here’s a summary:
Badge and ID card access control systems are some of the most effective and budget-friendly mechanisms available for the protection of people and assets.
But what are badge/ID access control systems? How do they work, and why are so many businesses and organizations implementing them?
Let's find out right now!
Access control systems have been around for a while, but the integration of badges and ID cards has raised expectations. Badge and ID systems today are not just about restricting access; they're about managing and monitoring it.
An access control system is a mechanism that allows or denies entry to a specific area based on predefined criteria, such as a match between data on a card and site authorizations.
There are several types of access control systems, from simple pin-based systems to advanced biometric ones.
Badge and ID card systems fall somewhere in between those two extremes, offering a balance of security and convenience.
Badges and ID cards serve as personal identifiers.
They tell the access control system which a person is so that the system can determine what site permissions a person has.
(You can think of badges and ID cards as digital keys that open specific authorized doors.)
Not all badge and ID card systems are created equal. Here's what you need to consider:
Size of the Facility: A larger facility might require a more robust system. Different types of access credentials and readers may be needed in different areas if a large site contains areas with different levels of security.
Number of Users: More users might necessitate a system with faster processing times. For example, Bluetooth “badge” systems may be ideal for high-traffic parking entrances because their data can be quickly processed by access control systems. By transmitting signals for entry over relatively large distances, they can reduce bottlenecks at busy access points.
Integration Needs: Some systems can integrate with other security measures like CCTV and fire detection.
Open-source access control systems are recommended because they’re compatible with other open-source security systems. This means they can be paired with other open-source systems regardless of the system’s manufacturer or particular use (i.e., video surveillance, intrusion detection, etc.).
Budget: Your budget is an essential factor when considering new security systems (or any other purchase). Badge and ID card systems are significantly less expensive than most biometric access control systems, which require tools like fingerprint and iris scanners to identify users. Badge and ID systems are also quicker and less intrusive than biometric systems.
Badge and ID card systems have become the go-to choice for many organizations across all business and institutional sectors. This is because badge and ID card access systems provide a middle ground between passcode access control and biometric access control.
Enhanced Security: Badge and ID card systems ensure that only authorized individuals can enter a facility.
Easy Management: Administrators can easily add, modify, or remove user permissions associated with badge and card identities.
Audit Trails: Administrators and security teams automate the process of tracking who enters a controlled space and when. This information provides valuable data in case of security breaches and can help to meet compliance requirements in many sectors.
Cost-Effectiveness: Compared to other systems, badge/ID card systems are inexpensive.
Every system has its challenges, including badge and ID access control systems. Here's what could go wrong and how to tackle it:
Immediately deactivate the lost or stolen badge or card. Then, check the audit trail to make sure the credential hasn’t been used in the time since it went missing.
Use turnstiles or mantraps to prevent unauthorized entry, or use cameras with artificial intelligence to recognize tailgating and draw the attention of personnel.
Regular maintenance and backups can prevent most issues. By working with experienced local access control dealer installers, you can receive timely service if the system malfunctions.
The world of access control is always evolving. Here are two trends to watch out for:
Access control systems are increasingly using Bluetooth-enabled smartphones as badges. Bluetooth signals are significantly more secure and resistant to hackers than the standard NFC and RFID signals in most cards and badges.
Bluetooth technology enables heightened security because it supports a secure, two-way communication channel between paired devices. With two-way authentication, hackers are left in the cold.
The term "cloud" in a digital context refers to a system of servers that store data and applications for use over the Internet (rather than on individual computers or on-site servers).
By shifting access control software to the cloud, businesses can manage permissions remotely, receive real-time updates, and seamlessly integrate their access control system with other cloud services.
And by shifting to cloud-based data storage, all data—from entry logs to user profiles—is stored securely off-site. In this way, cloud-based storage protects sensitive information from local hardware failures and on-site bad actors.
Badge and ID card access control systems offer a perfect blend of security, convenience, and affordability. Whether you’re managing a corporate office, a government building, an apartment complex, or a retail organization, there's a system out there that's right for you.
For assistance selecting and implementing the ideal access control for your site, reach out to the professionals at Mammoth Security.
Our team knows all about access control–as well as video surveillance, fire safety, intrusion detection, and structured cabling for voice and data. Just fill out the simple form below, and we’ll reach out to schedule your free site survey and consultation.
You’ll discover our intimate approach to customized security, and you’ll find out why the Mammoth team is Connecticut’s one-stop shop for all things commercial-grade security.
NOT COMPLETELY SURE?
860-748-4292Badge and ID card systems are better than traditional locks because they offer more control, are harder to bypass, and provide valuable audit trails.
Yes, many access control systems can integrate with CCTV, alarms, HVAC systems, and more. For the most convenient integrations, consider security systems and devices that operate using open-source software.
It's a good idea to review and update your system annually or whenever there are significant changes to your facility or staff.
Most systems have backup power sources to ensure continued operations in the event of a power outage.
Between biometric and badge/card systems, the best option depends on your needs. Biometric systems offer higher security than badge and ID card systems, but they are more expensive, more invasive, and slower than standard badge and card systems.
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