The days of searching through your purse or pockets in search for your keys and thereafter choosing the correct one from that bunch to unlock your day has become a thing of the past. Access control systems, commonly known as keyless entry systems, is a more secure and convenient way to lock and unlock your doors, keeping your premises safe. Access control systems have become quite popular over the years, predominantly within businesses moving away from traditional locking systems to advanced technological locking mechanisms. They provide a higher level of control which is extremely beneficial to high foot traffic areas that require close monitoring of the premises.
One of the key elements of security is restricting unauthorized access which not only protects occupants of the premises but also protects the assets and property from burglary, vandalism, and theft. Access control systems use a range of authentication methods, two of which are access cards and key tags. This article focuses on where they are used, how they work, and how they add value to the security of a property.
Card Systems and Key Tags
Access cards and key tags are the most common authentication techniques used by keyless access control systems. These systems are used on doors utilizing proximity readers that can be unlocked with just a touch or a swipe. These devices provide a higher level of security and are more reliable in comparison to conventional locks that require entering an access code on a keypad. Proximity credentials such as access cards and key tags offer a considerable level of convenience and are both reliable and secure.
These systems can be used in various applications such as offices with several employees, hotels, vaults, apartments, server rooms, storerooms, and laboratories. They can also be successfully integrated in places such as campuses, gyms, and shared pool facilities. Access control systems use programmed one-factor authentication. When the access card or key tag is in close proximity of the reader, the device verifies the credentials and either allows entry based on approval, or declines access based on rejection. Every access card and key tag has a designated identification number or code which is integrated to the system, programmed to allow or reject entry at any time. Entry points will only be unlocked if the user has been granted access permission. In the event of access being rejected, entry points will remain locked.
Access Cards
Access cards are usually the size of a credit card which contains a magnetic strip that has a unique code assigned for each user. When an individual in possession of an access card approaches the reader, the system verifies the credentials which unlocks the door. Access cards can also work when contained in a pocket wallet or purse.
Key Tags
A key tag is a keyless device that permits entry into a specified area or building. Key tags are portable coin-sized security tokens that can be conveniently placed on your key ring or in your pocket.
Access Cards and Key Tag Options
There are numerous access cards and key tag options available in the security market. Despite performing similar functions of restricting unauthorized access, every option works differently and offers varying levels of security. There are factors involved when considering which option to proceed with – the number of doors that require access control and the level of security needed for those entry points, as well as the number of users.
Swipe Key Cards
Swipe access cards have similar characteristics to a classic credit card as they both feature a magnetic strip along the edge of the card which stores important identification data. The verify the user’s credentials, the individual will have to swipe their card through a magnetic reader which will then authenticate and either grant or deny access based on their access permissions. Even though swipe cards have been a part of the access control industry for quite some time, there are a few flaws associated with them.
These systems might not be the ideal choice for high traffic areas as it could result in excessive waiting and bottlenecking due to every individual having to swipe to gain access. It may also be a difficulty utilizing them in car parks as it would be a challenge to swipe the card whilst in the car. Swipe access cards are also inclined to higher risk of wear and tear which requires frequent maintenance and replacement.
RFID Tags, RFID Cards, and Proximity Cards
A common authentication method used in access control systems, cards and tags is Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) which transmits data from the tag or card to a reader on the system. RFID compatible cards and tags have the ability to operate on different frequency ranges with most proximity cards and RFID tags having to be in close range to the system for data to be transmitted.
Key tags are the ideal choice for keyless access control systems in great scale buildings with a large number of users as they allow special permissions and time restrictions for individual users. Key tag entry systems also include two-factor authentication which enable users to enter a security code into a built-in keypad as an additional security feature. Smart access cards are high-frequency RFID authentication methods using Near-Field Communications (NFC) which transmits data to the system. Access cards are a better selection due to large storage capacity and they also include encryption as an added security feature.
Benefits of Using Access Cards and Key Tags
There are many benefits of using access cards and key tags which is the main reason for businesses adopting keyless forms of access control. Some of the main advantages include:
Convenience
The responsibility of managing property keys can be a daunting task, offering the risk and inconvenience of lost and stolen keys. Access cards and key tags eliminate the necessity of keys, along with the responsibility associated with it. Individuals have the privilege of accessing numerous areas that they are permitted to without having to manage keys. The customization features allows system administrators to grant or deny access to numerous users according to their position in the company, time, or even days. Keyless access control systems also allow system administrators the authority to remove access in the event of a card or tag being compromised in any way.
Access Records
Access cards and key tags offers additional security apart from just restricting unauthorized access into the premises – the control automatically captures data of individuals who accessed the system, along with the date and time. This accessible information is not only valuable but also beneficial when tracking employee and visitor data. It also provides valuable insight in the event of an incident such as theft or burglary, allow records to be analyzed to understand who was present at the time of the event.
Security
It is common for every property to have areas that are specified to authorized personnel only. These areas could either be main entry points of a premises or certain areas within the premises, such as a particular room. Access cards and key tags assist in restricting unauthorized access which also reduces the risks of damages, intrusions, and theft.
Multi-Location Access
Access cards and key tags offer a high level of convenience for employees and managers that are required to frequent multiple locations of the business, relieving the stress of having to manage keys for each location. These systems enable system administrators to authorize permissions for various access points per user. This allows users to access multiple entry points at multiple locations from a centralized administration.
Remote Access
Access control systems integrated with cloud technology enables system administrators to monitor, manage, control, and amend card and key tag access permissions remotely. This can be achieved with a smart device and good internet connection. The remote management feature is mainly beneficial for managers responsible for monitoring multi-location facilities, offering the advantage of managing these systems from home or whilst on vacation.
Alternate Authentication Methods
There are various other types of authentication methods which can be used to monitor and control keyless access control systems. Other types include:
Biometrics
Biometric access control systems incorporate biological identifiers such as retina scans, fingerprints, or facial recognition to grant or deny access to entry points. Biometrics is considered one of the most secure authentication methods and is now becoming a popular trend that it is even integrated in smartphones as an unlock feature.
The unique credentials entered into the system are compared to an earlier saved version of the data to create a successful match, allowing the user access to the entry point. In the event of the data not matching, the entry points remain locked, denying access to the user. Biometric access control systems may also auto-disable upon a specified number of failed attempts, and it can also be configured to alert relevant authorities to prevent tampering.
Smart Locks
Smart locks are keyless mechanical or electronic locks which allow you to lock and unlock the door, using either an app on your smartphone or other authentication methods. Users also receive updates and notifications when a door is unlocked, locked, or opened, along with access restrictions to specified times of the day. Furthermore, smart locks give system administrators the liberty of controlling locks from a remote location, allowing them to alter user credentials in just seconds.
Choosing The Best Access Control System For Your Property
If you’re looking to minimize unauthorized access whilst maximizing property security, with the added control and convenience, a keyless access control system is the perfect solution for you. There are a few things that need to be considered when choosing the ideal access control system for your premises. The first step would be conducting a security risk assessment to evaluate which entry points require access control.
Once that has been acknowledged, you need to identify the hardware that is required along with the best suited authentication methods to match your needs. Low traffic and low risk areas would require a basic keypad access control system. High traffic and high-risk areas would require more secure authentication methods such as proximity cards and tags, smart locks, and biometrics.
Access control systems boasts various additional features which make it easier for access management and control of your property. Some of the most useful access control features to look out for are:
- Contactless access – an extremely useful feature in a post-pandemic world
- Detailed reports and audit trails
- Integrations with other security systems
- Lockdown during emergencies
- Real-time data and notifications
- Remote management
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