Need extra safety and security from unauthorized entry into your building or house? Access control system security is the best solution for you to have a higher level of security as it is a very safe and convenient security system for everyone out there.

It provides increased safety and regulates entry to a building or specific areas. There are different types of access control in security for locks and keys that are suitable for different doors and cars that you can choose according to your preference and purpose.

In this article, you will better understand which one is suitable for you and what access control system security is. So, without any delay, let’s get into it.

Access Control System security: Meaning and Importance

Access control system security is the security system that implements various measures to prevent any risks related to unauthorized access and protect sensitive areas within a building or facility. It includes electronic locks, keycards, biometric scanners, or keypads.

It is important as it provides security and only allows authorized individuals to have access to the authentication method. This helps protect the people, assets, and sensitive information. That is why we should switch the traditional locks and keys to a more secure electronic system.

Components of Access Control System security

1) Authentication

The first component is authentication which helps identify the users who attempt to get access to the system. It includes various methods such as biometrics, passwords, smart cards, tokens, etc.

The authentication can also depend on the different types of keys and locks so that the user can unlock the door after it is authenticated by the access control system.

2) Authorization

After authentication, another component is authorization. It provides an extra layer of security and permits the user to access the system based on the resources or actions they want access to.

The access is granted based on the key or lock authorization as it is associated with predefined permissions.

3) Access enforcement

The third component is access enforcement which implements access control policies so that unauthorized access is prevented.  After the authorization only the system will grant or deny access by keeping the door unlocked or locked respectively.

It includes firewalls, gateways, encryption, and other security measures. It verifies and identifies the user, and then grants access to them.

4) Auditing and monitoring

The fourth component of the access control system security is auditing and monitoring. It maintains detailed logs of access attempts in case of security breaches. The monitoring helps to identify any suspicious activity.

Different types of Access Control System security

There are 4 types of access control in security systems that help organizations protect their data and users.

1) Biometric access control system

For granting access to your door, the biometric data is taken and analyzed by the biometric readers. A biometric access control system is a type of security system that makes its users authenticated that are based on their fingerprints, iris patterns, or facial features. Then, the locks will grant you access.

This system provides high security as the biometric data cannot be forged and this can also be not shared. It is suitable for environments that require high security and where strict authentication is essential.

2) Discretionary Access Control (DAC)

Discretionary access control is a flexible and high-effort system type of access control. This system gives control to resource owners for giving access to the users. They allow access permission based on their discretion.

Though it is usually used for computer security, it is also applicable for doors, locks, and keys to provide more security to you. The design, implementation, and evaluation of this system security are designed for securing you in various environment settings.

The grant will be permitted to those whose keys will be recognized by the locks on the door. The lock's owner will decide who will be able to open it. So, access will be given to those who will have the permission set by the owner.

3) Key-Based

Nowadays, many prefer electronic locks that have an access control system security to the traditional locks which are opened by the physical keys. It provides maximum security by preventing the lock from opening as it can be opened with the correct key only.

4) Mandatory Access Control (MAC)

Mandatory access control system gives control to system administrators to allow access. This system is highly secure and has strict access control policies.

In this system, the hardware components such as smart card readers, biometric scanners, and electronic locks are integrated with software modules that are responsible for label assignment, access decision-making, and audit trail generation.

MAC system puts restrictions based on two things, security labels and clearance levels that are assigned to users and resources. Access to the locks and doors will given based on security labels assigned to them.

Other types of Access Control System

Other types of access control in security systems also help to provide security, and you can use it according to your preference.

1) Keypad or PIN type:

The other way that the access control system provides security to you is by using a keypad or PIN system for the doors. Users are provided with a unique PIN, and access can only be granted by using this PIN.

So, to have permission to enter, users will have to use the code for access. This type of access control is suitable for doors with digital keypads or any electronic locks that accept codes.

2) Card-Based:

Card-based access control system is a security system that provides enhanced security as the smart cards have microprocessors. This system contains a magnetic stripe that has the encoded information through which access is granted to the users.

It also uses RFID (radio frequency identification) so that you can enjoy the privilege of contactless access. It is suitable for locks that can read the magnetic strips and RFID.

3) Mobile-Based:

Mobile-based access control system security is very convenient and flexible for you as you can use it for mobile devices to unlock doors.

Smartphones allow contactless access to users through Bluetooth or NFC technology.

4) Bluetooth :

With the Bluetooth system, the users are authenticated based on their Bluetooth-enabled devices. For producing communication between the user’s device and the access control system, Bluetooth technology is utilized.

Access control technologies

Following are various access control technologies that are used to provide enhanced security to you and your loved ones:

1) Biometric technologies

Biometric technology uses physiological and behavioral characteristics for authentication. It includes fingerprints, facial recognition, and iris patterns.

2) Radio-frequency identification (RFID)

Radio-frequency identification uses electromagnetic fields to identify tags that are attached to the locks and keys. They can permit access or deny access after capturing the electromagnetic waves that were generated to read the information.

3) Bluetooth access control

It utilizes Bluetooth-enabled devices in which the data transferred between two devices spreads through a radio interface.

4) Mobile access control

In this, mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets are used to access resources.

5) Internet of things

For establishing the communication between the components of access control, the internet is used for it.

Conclusion

As people want security for their doors, locks, and keys, the access control system provides them with high security. There are different types of security systems so which one is suitable for you and what purpose you want it for depends on your preferences and the level of security you want.

It helps to monitor and manage who can have access and when and for what reasons. Traditional methods are being replaced by these effective control systems which are more efficient, flexible, and convenient.

So, have more security with these access control systems and prevent unauthorized access and potential security threats.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1 Which 3 elements are needed for access control?

Ans 3 elements that are needed for access control are identification, authentication, and authorization.

Q2 Are smart locks access control?

Ans Yes, smart locks are access control as they allow users to lock or unlock the door.

Q3 How does access control work?

Ans Access control works by identifying users through unique PINs, usernames, passwords, biometrics, and other forms of identification.