THOUGHT CENTER > Blog > Access Controls
November 10, 2023
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When it comes to the security of your business or organization, opting for fobs over traditional keys is akin to choosing a smartphone over a rotary dialler. Many people resist new technologies, but once you discover what you’ve been missing, there’s no going back.
In this article, we'll run through the benefits of key fobs over traditional keys. Then, we’ll walk through the steps of a successful fob-based access control deployment.
Fob access control systems are a seamless and secure method to control who gets in and out of buildings, rooms, and premises. The top benefits of fob systems over traditional lock-and-key systems include:
Traditional keys can be easily duplicated, and, let's face it, they present a security risk when lost or copied.
Fobs, on the other hand, are well-encrypted to resist duplication. What’s more, they can be remotely deactivated by administrators when stolen or lost.
Every time a fob is used to attempt entry, a connected access control panel logs the activity details alongside the fob holder’s identity. This data is critical during internal reviews, incident investigations, and criminal prosecutions. In sectors like healthcare and finance, event logging via access control even provides automated compliance with what would otherwise be time-consuming regulations.
With a fob access system, entry can be as simple as a tap against a reader (voila! You're in!).
This convenience extends to all personnel, from employees to temporary staff to cleaning crews, each of whom can be granted role-based privileges to access only the areas and resources necessary for their work responsibilities.
Administrators can instantly deactivate access fobs when they’re lost or stolen, as well as when fob-holders are fired or otherwise unwelcome on-premises.
Traditional mechanical key systems, on the other hand, suck up valuable administrative and labor time because traditional keys must be chased down, and locksmiths must be called in to change locks and issue new keys.
The benefits of administrative remote control over privileges extend beyond security to time-saving convenience.
For example, all sites make adjustments to the way they utilize different spaces over time. Rather than needing to give out new keys and collect old ones when site workflows shift, fobs can be remotely adjusted to grant access to newly needed rooms and spaces while revoking access to old sites that can now contain different resources.
While the initial investment in a fob access system might be higher than that of a traditional key-and-locking system, the long-term savings are likely to be substantial.
The costs associated with rekeying locks, making duplicate keys, and managing a cumbersome set of physical keys can add up quickly.
Fob systems, however, are largely maintenance-free and eliminate recurring expenses when keys are lost. Over time, this makes them a more economical choice for businesses looking to manage their security efficiently.
A fact sheet by New South Wales Crime Prevention describes successful crime prevention measures that combine access control deployments with Crime Prevention through Environmental Design (CPTED). The fact sheet demonstrates that fob and other access control systems provide unexpected functionalities when smartly integrated with other security measures.
Deploying a fob access system requires careful planning and competent execution. Here are the steps:
Identify the doors in your facility that should be equipped with fob access. The decisions you make now regarding fob-enabled access points will influence the scope and cost of your key fob access system.
Account for expenses related to hardware, software, and professional installation services. A best practice during budgeting is to consult with respected local security system installers, such as those at Mammoth Security.
The right local experts will make sure you're investing in products that are effective, fairly priced, and suited to your needs.
Consult with respected local security system experts, like those at Mammoth Security, to make sure you invest in useful, cost-effective security products that fit your needs.
When it comes to hardware, you've got options. Brands like ICT, DMP, Honeywell, Brivo, PDQ, Salto, and Avigilon offer a comprehensive variety of fob options.
Here are some crucial factors to consider with your professional installer:
Compatibility: Be sure that any new hardware or software you invest in is compatible with your existing security infrastructure. You don't want to invest in a system that will require an expensive overhaul of your current setup.
Scalability: Choose a system that can grow with your business or organization without requiring a costly overhaul.
Multifactor Identification: While fob-based access control systems may only require a valid fob to authenticate an identity, multifactor identification (also known as two-factor identification) is strongly recommended at high-security access points.
Site preparation sets the stage for a smooth installation process by reducing the likelihood of delays and unexpected challenges. Any existing security hardware that will be replaced or integrated with the new fob system should be identified and assessed.
Designated areas for fob readers and other system components must be clean, free of obstructions, and easily accessible. This involves removing physical barriers that might hinder the installation process, including furniture.
Electrical outlets should be nearby. Check to make sure they’re operational, as they’ll be powering the system.
The hardware installation phase is critical, and it's crucial to have this carried out by certified professionals. They’ll not only follow best practices for installation, but they’ll also conduct preliminary tests to make sure everything is working as it should.
This involves mounting fob readers at identified access points and ensuring they’re positioned at ergonomic heights and are easily accessible for all users.
Wiring must then be carefully routed to connect all fob door readers to a central control system or control panel for easy monitoring and maintenance.
After the hardware is securely in place, the focus shifts to software.
Software is the brain of your fob access system. It makes the ultimate decisions on who gets access to what and when.
The software needs to be configured to recognize authorized fobs that will be distributed to your personnel. This often involves entering unique identification numbers or scanning the fobs into the system.
Once the fobs are recognized, the next step is to set up the audit trails. This feature will log every instance of access or attempted access, capturing details like the time, location, and identity of the person using the fob.
Fob access control software may also provide features like setup for high-security access zones, time-based access control rules, and integration capabilities with other security systems, such as those for video surveillance, intrusion detection, fire safety, and building management.
Before you go live, your installer must rigorously test the system to ensure it's working as desired.
Once satisfied, it's time to distribute fobs to the individuals they’ve been assigned to and enjoy your automated access control system.
Here are best practices to keep your fob access control system operating seamlessly once it has been professionally installed:
Regular Updates: Keep your system's software up-to-date for protection against bad actors in cyberspace.
Regular Audits: Periodically review access logs to monitor for any suspicious activity.
Employee Training: Make sure your staff knows how to use the system properly to avoid any hiccups.
A proper access control deployment always involves employee training. That’s why the team at Mammoth Security provides complimentary staff training for every new access control system we install. If you’re interested in deploying a modern access control solution at your business or institution, click to contact us and fill out the form that appears. We’ll set you up with a 100% free, no-obligation site survey and security assessment. You’ll meet a friendly expert from our team and discover why Mammoth Security is Connecticut’s go-to for security systems and installations that won’t disappoint.
NOT COMPLETELY SURE?
860-748-4292Fob access systems enhance security by using encrypted fobs that are difficult to duplicate. If a fob is lost or stolen, it can be remotely deactivated by administrators, reducing the risk of unauthorized access.
In fob access systems, audit trails play a crucial role by logging every instance of access or attempted access. This data is critical for security audits, investigations, and—in many industries—regulatory compliance.
Fob access systems benefit end-users by providing a simple and convenient method for gaining access to authorized resources. Entry can be as easy as tapping the fob against a reader, and role-based access privileges can be assigned to different personnel.
Fob access systems are cost-effective because they eliminate recurring expenses associated with rekeying locks and making duplicate keys. While the initial investment may be higher, the long-term savings make it a more economical choice.
Compatibility is critically important when choosing hardware components for a fob access system. To avoid needing to choose between an ineffective system and costly overhauls for compatibility, make sure that new hardware can be integrated with your existing security infrastructure.
Multifactor identification, also known as two-factor identification, refers to the requirement that more than one credential type must be presented to prove an identity. This could involve using a fob along with a biometric scan or a password.
Professionals ensure proper installation and configuration of fob access control systems by preparing the site, installing hardware components (like fob readers and control panels), and configuring software to recognize authorized fobs and enforce preprogrammed access control rules.
Best practices for maintaining a fob access system include regular software updates to protect against vulnerabilities, employee training to ensure proper usage and periodic log audits to monitor for suspicious activities.
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