Access Control: Out With The Old, In With The New

By John Ringis, National Director Physical Security Global Enterprise (GE) - 24 Mar, 2022
Physical Security
3 Minutes Read

Considering an upgrade to your Access Control system? 

Access control systems have historically been confined to securing doors and gates. However, times and technology are changing toward complete networked access control solutions. Complex, labor-intensive installations have traditionally limited the use of access control to core building infrastructure despite the benefits of improved physical security. Just as we have witnessed with video surveillance over the past ten years, the access control industry is now a flurry of rapid change.

In a recent article by Axis Communications, “Access control is expanding beyond securely providing a passage through an exterior door. Access control systems both simplify and enhance day-to-day activities by expanding their reach beyond the door and connecting to other third-party systems.”  With this expansion, comes further opportunity to secure every aspect of your organization.

Attend any security specific trade show or open any industry focused magazine and you will be met with a long line of access control manufacturers, technologies, and new whiz-bang features. With the adoption of Ethernet-based architecture into access control solutions, the industry has finally stepped into the 21st century, helping to make networked access control accessible for non-traditional applications.

These advancements in technology have fueled manufacturer competition, development of new technologies and feature sets designed around the end user and network-driven access control. Features and offerings like open architecture for simplified integration with other security platforms, A/D integration to aid in user management, wireless locks, locks for cabinets and other non-traditional applications, all-in-one integrated reader/controllers, mobile credentials, and cloud-based solutions are all designed to:

  • Expand the Reach of Traditional Access Control
  • Simplify Installation
  • Improve System Usability
  • Reduce Dependency on User Training
  • Ultimately Lower the Overall Cost of Ownership

Knowing that many of today’s newer access control solutions are designed around secure control through a single network connection, it’s easy to envision doors and gates as nothing more than a starting point for how you can leverage access control.

Access control systems have changed dramatically over the years to accommodate the end-user. Convenience, performance, and security are all expectations of the system, and if these expectations are accomplished the access control system will provide a safe environment for everyone. Picture an environment where you, your assets and your employees are safe.

Examples of Where Access Control Can Improve Safety and Security:

  • Eliminate keys and cores by leveraging access control for your retail store front.
  • Secure cabinets and track access to controlled substances in Pharmacies.
  • Control access to data racks/cabinets.
  • Control access to valuable or sensitive products.
  • Manage access to your entire fleet of vehicles.
  • Active Directory integration to aid in user/credential management.

Now is a great time to re-evaluate the feasibility of leveraging these new and improved access control offerings as a part of your loss physical security protocol.

Check out how New Era’s physical security services provide extensive access control solutions, along with additional resources to deliver a safe and secure environment for your customers, employees, and assets.

Author: John Ringis, National Director Physical Security Global Enterprise (GE)