Have you installed an access control system for the safety and peace of mind? But do you also know that these systems can become outdated?

The outdated system poses a significant risk to you and your safety. The updated one has advanced features and security measures that protect you against modern threats.

Whether business or home, these systems are essential to maintain the security of your premises while restricting unwanted individuals. From malfunctions to complex user experiences, outdated systems cause many problems.

However, what are the signs to learn the access control system is outdated or due for an upgrade? Here are a few signs your system may be past its prime.

What is an Access Control System?

Access control systems are security measures that regulate who can access a particular area or resource. From homes to offices, it is used in various settings.

These systems include card readers, keypads, biometric scanners, and electric locks, which you can choose according to your needs and preferences.

It helps manage user authentication and authorization to prevent any unauthorized access. These systems grant access only after identifying the individuals through ID cards, keys, or biometric data.

Recommended Reads: Exploring the Different Types of Access Control In Security Systems

Signs of an Outdated Access Control System

1) Frequent Malfunctions

Are you experiencing frequent breakdowns? Then, your access control system needs an upgrade. One of the most common signs of an outdated system is frequent malfunctions.

They disrupt your daily operations, lead to unauthorized access, and compromise your safety, whether it is in residential or commercial settings.

You can see that the cards are not reading correctly, the keypads are unresponsive, display errors, etc.

The electric lock failure and system crash or freeze are some of the indications that you should get your system changed immediately. The frequent malfunctions cause inconvenience and hamper your safety.

2) Slow Response Time

If your access control system is processing slowly, that is a clear sign of an outdated system. Efficient systems are crucial because a slow one can lead to frustration and downtime.

It takes a longer time than usual to scan your keycard or enter your passcode. Your business operations can be affected due to the frequent downtime. It can happen when you don’t offer proper maintenance to the system.

If the problem persists, you should take a hint and replace the outdated system because it leads to slow responses to commands and requests.

Even the verification process, like fingerprints or facial recognition, may take excessive time. These problems affect productivity and increase the risk of unauthorized access.

3) Incompatibility with New Technologies

Today, everyone goes hand-in-hand with technology. So, why should the access control system stay behind? These systems easily integrate with the latest technologies. If not, there is something wrong with the system.

You will know your system is outdated when you can’t connect it with smart devices, like cameras, sensors, or alarms.

Smart building’s lighting, heating, and security features are controlled using advanced tech. However, if your system is not syncing properly with these features, your access control system is outdated.

The outdated system can’t integrate with modern security systems, limiting its effectiveness. Other signs include not being able to integrate with Internet of Things (IoT) devices like smart door locks.

It may not be compatible with cloud-based access control platforms. It also struggles to integrate with other security and modern credential technologies. It means it does not support smartphone-based access cards or biometrics.

Recommended Reads: Smart Lock Installation Guide: 7 Simple Steps to Secure Your Door

4) Lack of Modern Features

The access control systems make life easier and security tighter, as they come with an extensive range of modern features. But the system may not work properly if it doesn’t have these features.

Your system should have cloud integration instead of relying on outdated and on-site servers without cloud support. It is because they offer remote access and improved flexibility.

The outdated one also doesn’t allow mobile access and user customization. It should have modern features such as biometric authentication, mobile credential support, cloud-based management, and integration with security technologies.

You should upgrade your system with modern features to enhance your security and convenience of access control operations.

5) Poor Security Performance

The first thought that comes to people's minds while installing an access control system is their security. But your security and operations are at risk if it has weak points.

Older or outdated systems often lead to poor security performance and encryption protocols. They are even vulnerable to cyberattacks, like hacking or tampering. Your system should have advanced encryption to prevent the risk of unauthorized access.

The poor security often can also lead to security breaches, making it vulnerable to attacks. If your system is not offering biometric integration or adequate security, upgrade it with a more modern and secure system.

Recommended Reads: Enhancing Security: IT Access Control Systems for Businesses

6) Limited Scalability

Is your access control system setup rigid and can’t be expanded? It is another clear sign of an outdated system. It usually is a problem for a business that wants to grow it.

They find it difficult to add new users, leading to manual input and excessive effort. It doesn't support the increasing number of users and access points.

Your system will not scale, creating trouble in expanding the business to multiple locations. A limited system is insufficient to accommodate the changing needs of business or home.

7) Expired Hardware and Software

Every technology has an expiration date, and using outdated hardware or software when it reaches the end can have adverse effects. Your system becomes vulnerable to security breaches when its software doesn’t get updated.

It is also the case with the old hardware. It is a common challenge of using the expired hardware and software components. They don’t receive security updates or technical support, making it difficult to resolve the problem.

They are incompatible with newer technologies, and maintaining these outdated components can be expensive. This is because specialized expertise or replacement parts are required to address the issue.

However, it is not good for the long term because it can lead to an increased risk of security breaches and poor system performance.

8) Complex User Experience

The user interface should be simple because it allows users to navigate the system easily. But if your access control system is becoming difficult to navigate, here is another sign of the outdated system.

The complicated user interface causes frustration and a complex user experience. In today’s fast-paced work environment, an easy-to-use system is a must. The confusing one makes it challenging for employees or residents to use it effectively.

The outdated system often doesn’t have an intuitive design, leading to more time and errors. That is why you should upgrade your system with a more user-friendly interface to enhance user satisfaction and productivity.

9) High Maintenance Costs

Are you calling in technicians or locksmiths for repairs and maintenance? Then, it is an excellent idea to consider an upgraded system that integrates with new technologies and systems.

This is because the outdated system often breaks down frequently. Also, your business suffers because your system is down constantly, leading to reduced productivity and excessive downtime costs.

Even the replacement parts are difficult to find and require specialized technicians, leading to increased labour costs. If you are thinking of upgrading it to a more reliable and modern system, then you are making the right and smart choice.

10) Inability to Track and Audit Access

Lastly, an outdated access control system doesn’t have the features required to track and audit access. So, if there is a security incident, this system will make it difficult to identify and investigate such incidents.

Lack of audit trails leads to unauthorized access. It also can’t analyze access patterns due to the limited reporting capabilities of the system.

Replace the outdated system with the new one with the ability to track and audit access. It will help maintain a secure environment and detect and respond to security threats.

How Can Keyenzy Help?

Keyenzy can help with outdated access systems by connecting you with expert locksmiths. They will identify the weaknesses and potential security risks.

After that, they recommend upgrades or replacements to improve the system’s security and performance. The locksmiths also install the access control system based on your needs and preferences.

If you also want to upgrade the system, fill out a form at keyenzy. They will connect you with an experienced and professional access control installer within a few minutes.

Bottom Line

Now, you must know the signs of the outdated access control system and how they impact your home or business security and lead to expensive repair costs.

They cause more disadvantages than doing you any good, like reduced efficiency, frequent malfunctions, missing modern features, or more downtime costs.

So, investing in an upgraded system ensures you are ready to address these challenges. They even allow you to enjoy various benefits, such as enhanced security, improved user experience, and save money.

If you are looking for a locksmith or keymaker near you to install the upgraded access control system, you can visit Keyenzy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1 How often should I upgrade my access control system?

Ans You should consider upgrading your access control system every 5-7 years, depending on the introduction of new technology and your needs.

Q2 What are the best modern features for an access control system?

Ans The best modern features for an access control system include cloud integration, mobile access, biometric authentication, and compatibility with IoT devices.

Q3 Can outdated systems lead to security breaches?

Ans Yes, outdated systems can lead to security breaches because of weak encryption or vulnerabilities.

Q4 What should I look for when upgrading?

Ans You should look for scalability, modern security features like biometrics, cloud access, and easy integration with other smart systems when upgrading your system.