Upgrade your business’s security with access control

Access control transforms your security from a static, lock-and-key system into one that’s dynamic and flexible. 

Choosing the right access control system for your business protects your assets, smooths out daily operations, and guarantees accountability. 

What is access control? 

Physical access control refers to security systems and protocols that regulate entry to buildings, rooms and other spaces. 

These systems restrict access by verifying user identity and enforcing strict permission checks. They’re great for protecting employees, clients, valuable assets, and confidential information. 

Why access control is better for your business

Improved security

As with all effective locks, access control keeps intruders out of restricted areas, preventing theft, vandalism, and further security risks. But modern software does more than physically restrict access, it also acts as a deterrent. 

Integrating sensors with smart technology alerts staff if someone has broken into a building in real-time. Intruders will note visible modern software and avoid that building as it presents a higher risk. 

Better safety

There’s less strain on individuals to carry out manual checks. These systems allow for automated checking instead. This adds an extra layer of protection for your employees, workspace, visitors and customers.

Unlike traditional locking mechanisms, physical access control cannot be easily picked, broken or manipulated. 

Software does run the risk of being hacked, but with regular password changes and restricted access to computer systems they can be well maintained. 

Access logging

Access control provides an audit trail. Specialised software generates detailed logs of who enters and exits restricted areas at what time. 

This is particularly useful if the worst should happen and someone does break in or a theft occurs, it’s easier to track down the perpetrator, recover stolen goods and reduce the risk of it happening again. 

Flexible access management 

Access permissions can be easily adjusted for new employees, contractors or visitors when necessary. There’s no need to worry about spare keys, the system can accommodate new individuals, or be updated to disallow ex-employees and those who no longer need access. 

This level of flexibility is ideal for property management firms, construction companies, retail, and healthcare settings. These workspaces require high security whilst needing to allow for high staff and client turnover. 

Cost efficiency

Keys can be costly to replace and easy to duplicate. Access control eliminates the need for traditional keys. While these systems can have higher up-front costs, they’ll save you money in the long run. 

Types of access control 

Physical access control systems can be categorised into four key types: 

Discretionary Access Control (DAC)

The owner of the restricted space decides who to grant access to, and under what conditions. This type of access control usually presents as keycards or codes. 

Discretionary Access Control (DAC) is commonly used in offices and small businesses because it’s easy to implement and modify. 

Its flexibility makes it appealing. But permission to access is granted manually, so this system is more susceptible to human error. 

Mandatory Access Control (MAC)

Unlike DAC, Mandatory Access Control (MAC) restricts entry based on standardised government or organisation wide systems. 

They’re not as flexible as DAC, but they offer optimal security as users cannot modify their access status. This makes them suited for data centres, research labs or government buildings. 

Physical MAC uses biometric scanners and security checkpoints to regulate an individual’s access. 

Role-Based Access Control (RBAC)

Rather than setting permissions individually like MAC, Role-Based Access Control or RBAC (as the name suggests) grants access based on an employee’s job title. For example, only members of the IT department have access to the server room. 

Security management is simplified as access permissions are based on roles. Making this type of access control scalable and streamlined.

However it does require clear definitions of roles and responsibilities. While this is appropriate for large corporations or healthcare centres, it’s not realistic for a retail space or small business, where members of staff may have to do lots of different jobs. 

Attribute-Based Access Control (ABAC)

Attribute-Based Access Control (ABAC) applies dynamic, context-aware authorization to rooms and spaces rather than individuals. 

While this offers high security, it’s complex to configure and maintain. 

ABAC systems are perfect for buildings where access isn’t just dependent on an employee’s job role. For example, allowing cleaning staff to access rooms after business hours, or contractors into a building on certain days. 

Final thoughts 

Whether your security requirements have changed or you’re just looking to update your business's safety, consider a high-tech lock replacement.

Implementing access control is more secure, records more data, is flexible and cost-efficient.