Access control is becoming the digital security solution of choice for many sorts of enterprises, including office buildings and hotels, in order to protect the building and premises, workers and visitors, and precious assets. For many businesses, the question of whether or not to establish an access control system is irrelevant. It is more about what sort of system is optimal and what questions people should ask before purchasing.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Is your building code-compliant for the installation of access control?

 

Remember that various states in the United States have distinct rules and compliance criteria for security systems such as access control. For example, the majority of states have limits on where access control systems may be put, such as on fire escape doors. There are also a number of regulations regarding the usage of locking mechanisms and electrical connections. Ensure you investigate your state’s legislation and discuss compliance with your provider.

 

 

 

Integrate with Enterprise System

 

Which kind of integrations might be beneficial for your organization?

 

Access control systems may now be combined with other technology platforms, like as time and attendance systems, payroll administration software, and even video surveillance systems, thanks to technological advancements. Numerous access control systems are mobile-compatible, meaning they may be handled remotely or online. Before contacting access control vendors, consider the back-end systems you may want to integrate with your access control system. Thus, you may inquire with providers about their integration choices.

 

 

 

Do you need an open API (application programming interface)?

 

Some organizations choose to implement a system with an open application programming interface (API). This provides them with flexibility in how their staff may access various entrances. For example, an API may enable workers to access various places via a swipe card, mobile app, or another method. This might offer an element of ease to the security system of the organization. However, not every vendor provides API-capable systems. If interested, be sure to inquire about the option when requesting a quotation.

 

 

 

7. Do you have a backup strategy for electronic data?

 

Do you intend to maintain electronic logs of access control activity? While this may not be a priority for some firms, it is essential for others. For example, if you use your access control system to track staff shifts, you will likely need to maintain electronic records. If you are merely utilizing the system to enable entrance, electronic records may not be necessary.

 

 

 

If you want to use electronic records, you must interface your system with an electronic platform and discover a mechanism to schedule data backups. Your vendor or IT department will likely have further information on this electronic backup procedure.

 

 

 

 

 

Monitor and Maintain Forward Progress

 

Who is authorized to administer the system?

 

Access control systems, like the vast majority of software, are intended to accommodate users as opposed to administrators. Users are able to make frequent use of the system, but they are unable to modify preferences, meaning they have no control over who gets access when and where. Nonetheless, administrative users have the ability to modify access permissions. Administrators may modify the system settings as often as seldom as they choose. In addition, administrators often oversee tools such as analytics and employee reports, unsuccessful access attempts, and more. You may choose to assign the same administrators to each location, or you may wish to assign administrators based on location. It depends on your requirements.

 

 

 

Do you need any time or date restrictions?

 

It makes logical for certain businesses to allow access just during specific hours and days, while limiting access during other times and days. Additionally, their “operating timetable” may vary by regulated location.

 

 

 

Do you want to limit entry to your building on the weekends, when your personnel are not present? Or you may choose to limit entrance to the premises after 6 p.m., when the last employee has left for the day. In hotels, restaurants, and other service sectors, some owners choose to restrict guest access to particular sections, such as the gym, pool, or bar, to certain hours.

 

 

 

When administrators restrict access to certain places, they may specify which dates, hours, and/or holidays are inaccessible. Additionally, they might restrict access to certain individuals during particular hours.

 

 

 

Do you prefer on-premise systems or cloud-based solutions?

 

Additionally, businesses must decide between on-premise and cloud-based access control solutions. Your decision between the two will affect the system’s day-to-day administration.

 

 

 

On-premises access control entails hosting the data center at your location. The server is then administered by your IT personnel or another security management team. This option provides companies with more control over the system, but requires them to update and administer it themselves. It also demands a bigger initial capital expenditure.

 

 

 

In contrast, cloud-based access control systems often store and handle their data in the location of the service provider. The supplier will execute upgrades and maintenance, relieving you of this responsibility. However, there is less direct control over day-to-day change management, which for certain businesses may not be a concern.

 

 

 

The advantages of cloud-based systems include cost savings, superior security, and mobile adaptability. A cloud-based solution is often less expensive than an on-premises one. In addition, they are harder to hack and provide many input methods, including mobile applications.

 

 

 

Do you have a strategy for system maintenance and updates?

 

As with any technology that is essential to the functioning of your organization, you will need to undertake routine maintenance and upgrades to ensure the system’s performance. Numerous providers include maintenance and repair plans in their contracts. Others may need you to do maintenance alone.

 

 

 

If you have an IT department and use an on-premises system, your IT department can likely manage maintenance. If you do not have an IT staff capable of handling maintenance, you will need to inquire with your vendor about their maintenance alternatives. Then, pick whether you want to add a maintenance plan with the provider or if you want to locate a maintenance plan independently.

 

 

 

Have you established a method for blocking user access?

 

When an employee is dismissed or leaves your organization, you should have a structure in place. You must delete their account and access keys and provide a method for activating new accounts and turnover keys. Your administrator will likely be in charge of these responsibilities, so develop and adhere to a consistent procedure for deactivating employee access.

 

 

 

To ensure that all of your business’s security requirements are met, investigate why companies need security cameras and access control. If you want to begin comparing pricing for access control systems, our free tool that allows you to evaluate choices is here to assist!

 

NJ Access Control

 

Access control systems are used by businesses all over the globe to ensure adequate security on their facilities. As access control technology advances, an increasing number of vendors provide strong cloud-based access control systems and other solutions to enterprises.

 

 

 

Industry-specific door access control and security systems are unavoidably developed by various vendors. It might be difficult to choose the best access control manufacturer for your industry and company requirements. Here, for your convenience, we have compiled a list of the top five access control manufacturers in the commercial sector, along with the industry to which each serves primarily.

 

 

 

1. Honeywell

 

Leading Supplier for Healthcare

 

 

 

Honeywell is an industry leader in access control technology and an ideal choice for healthcare institutions. One of the reasons Honeywell is so effective in the healthcare industry is because they are not only focused on access control. In addition, they provide other technologies, such security systems and others, that healthcare organizations may connect with their access control system to create a simplified technological solution. Using intuitive software, Honeywell access control systems may be administered remotely by healthcare personnel. Access control systems may be integrated with other healthcare technologies, such as visitor management, video surveillance, and ventilation control.

 

 

 

Advantages of Access Control Options for Healthcare Facilities

 

Contactless electronic cards

 

The use of proximity cards

 

App with many door reader choices

 

Integration of security and video surveillance

 

Visitor management system

 

Data security

 

Flow management integration

 

2. Salto Systems

 

Outstanding Supplier for Hotels and Hospitality

 

 

 

Salto Systems is a leading producer of access control systems for over 6,000 hotels and resorts worldwide. They specialize in security systems for hotels, but are also qualified to assist other businesses, including commercial, government, and healthcare, among others. Salto is a cutting-edge access control system that provides hotels and other companies with a variety of alternatives for credentials and door scanners. In addition, Salto’s solution may be linked with back-end time and attendance systems, making it a great option for hotels and hospitality organizations.

 

 

 

Access Control Advantages for Hotels

 

Mobile app

 

Keychains

 

RFID cards

 

RFID bracelets

 

24/7 access through contactless key wristbands

 

Mobile solutions

 

Instant re-rooming

 

Group registration

 

Individual key programming

 

Optional credentials for visitors

 

Compatibility with third-party systems

 

Security Key

 

Superior Producer of Fitness Centers

 

 

 

SecuraKey is a producer of access control systems that specializes in multi-door systems for gyms and fitness facilities. They consist of control panels, software, card access readers, keytags, and accessories for use in conjunction with access control systems. Even if just one door in your fitness center needs access control, SecuraKey can supply you with a keyless entry solution for a single door. Securakey, a market leader in RFID technology, enables fitness facilities to generate customized membership cards.

 

 

 

Advantages of Access Control Options for Fitness Centers

 

ISO codes

 

Key tags

 

Stick-on labels Personalized, customized key cards

 

Smartcards, proximity scanners, keypads, and more options are available.

 

Multi-door solution

 

4. Genetec

 

Best Supplier for Schools

 

 

 

 

 

Genetec is a market leader in the production of security systems, such as access control. Their access control systems are among the most popular options for schools, colleges, and other educational institutions. Genetec assists schools and other educational institutions in maintaining a high level of security by enhancing situational awareness, facilitating efficient parking management using license plate recognition, and securing whole campuses. Their access control systems may be readily combined with other security technologies, such as video surveillance. This enables schools to quickly expand their security coverage to include a variety of entrances and regions within the building and grounds.

 

 

 

Advantages of Access Control Options for Schools

 

Keypads

 

Card keys

 

Plus integrated security systems

 

Scalable video management

 

Convenient, secure access control

 

License plate recognition

 

Incident management

 

5. HID Global

 

Best Supplier for Offices

 

 

 

HID is the world’s top producer of access control systems for companies, delivering one of the most complete, all-inclusive commercial systems available. They provide access control services such as different authentication methods, citizen identification, ID card production, access management, RFID identification, and more. HID is a configurable solution for a wide variety of commercial sectors, enabling companies to choose their door reader types, authentication methods, software, and more to meet their specific demands. This makes them one of the greatest options for business workplaces, such as banks, financial institutions, legal companies, and government organizations.