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Choosing the Right Access Control for Your Business

Explore the Advantages and Challenges of Popular Options

Choosing the Right Access Control for Your Business

Businesses can’t be too careful when it comes to on-premises security. Carefully monitoring who enters, exits, and has access to sensitive areas where data is stored is necessary to protect the business's physical and data safety. Employees generally feel safer working in a large corporation when the building is protected with access control systems. However, choosing the right type of system is important when securing your commercial property. Many options are available, each with advantages and challenges to explore. Continue reading to learn about system options and how each can meet your Katy, TX, business needs.

SEE ALSO: Why Choose an Access Control System That Integrates with Other Security Products? 

Keycard Systems

Keycard systems are popular because they are cost-effective, simple, and scalable. 

A keycard is easy enough for employees to carry from place to place by attaching it to their clothing with a clip, carrying it in a pocket, or placing it in a wallet or purse. Lost cards can be deactivated quickly and are easily replaced. For a growing business with many new employees, the ease of issuing new cards provides businesses with accessible, easy security. 

The drawback of keycard systems is that cards are easily lost, stolen, or even cloned, creating a security risk for the organization. More importantly, if businesses brand their keycards or include the employee’s photo, that provides valuable information to a potential intruder who may try to impersonate the employee. If using a keycard system, keeping the cards basic white is best to avoid this threat.

Biometric Systems

Biometric systems used to be exclusively used in businesses and financial institutions with very sensitive security needs. However, features like fingerprint reading and facial recognition have become more mainstream since being incorporated into popular consumer technology like iPhones. 

Even though the concept of biometric systems is less daunting today, the installation and startup cost of a biometric system remains high among access control options, making it out of reach for some small businesses with limited budgets.

PIN Code Systems

PIN code systems don’t require physical credentials, so they can be a very convenient option for business security. Employees simply need to remember a code to gain entry. These systems may be more affordable than other options, making them work well for smaller businesses.

The downside of PIN codes is that they can be shared or guessed, creating a potential security issue. Regularly changing codes is necessary to maintain security. If your organization has high employee turnover, a PIN code system might not be an effective option.

Mobile-Based Systems

Today's emerging access control option is a mobile-based system that relies on smartphones for entry. Similar to a tap-to-pay system, a phone chip can communicate a signal granting access to the facility or secure areas. Businesses can manage access remotely through an app, making adding or removing permissions easy.

The major hurdle with a mobile-based system is ensuring that employees have a charged smartphone to use with it. If the company relies on smartphone access, it may need to supply phones to employees.

Finding the Right Access Control for Your Business

When selecting an access control system, consider factors like the size of your business, the level of security required, and your budget. A trusted security expert from ASAP Security Services can help assess your needs and recommend the best solution for your Katy, TX, business. Contact us to schedule your no-cost consultation today.

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