Access control systems are crucial for all commercial properties. They are convenient to use and protect your employees, business assets, and sensitive information you may have in your building. Here’s how these systems work. 

What They Are

An access control system is designed to regulate entry into a specific area. It can be as simple as a password, key, or card that your team uses to get into the building. However, systems have gotten more complex over the years as technological advancements have made new features possible. For example, these systems now allow you to give certain people access to different parts of a building. Plus, you can monitor who comes and goes.

Common types of authentication in modern systems include a password entered into a keypad, biometrics—such as fingerprints or eye scanning—and mobile apps. The most common type used is the key fob or access card.

The Components of a Card System

A control system using access cards that consist of four components. The first is the card itself, which is given to each employee. It’s programmed with their information and access limits. You can change their permissions at any time, and those changes will become active immediately. The second is the card reader. It’s installed next to the door and allows employees to swipe or tap the card. This is connected to the hardware in the door itself.

Once the reader confirms the employee is allowed access, it unlocks the door and automatically relocks it once it’s closed. The access control field panels are installed in each building and connect to the other components of the system. They process any activity. The server computer may be onsite or remote and is the brain of the entire system. It’s where you can monitor and control activity.

Herrick’s Security Service is a trusted security system contractor in Lincoln, NE. Their state-of-the-art commercial security systems are from the top brands on the market, such as Honeywell® and Speco®. Their comprehensive services include access control systems, surveillance, and security alarms. Learn more on their website or by calling (402) 730-4373.