4 Types of Access Controls

In this short article, we’ll give you a quick breakdown of the four types of access control systems and their standout features. But, before that, there are a few questions that need answering.

What are access control systems?

To some, the answer to this question is obvious, but to those that have never heard the term access controls, here’s the simple explanation - an access control system is an automatic, preconfigured door locking system that provides enhanced control over the access to a property.

Aren’t metal keys access control systems?

In a sense, yes, metal keys are a type of door access control system, i.e. a key will only allow the keyholder entry to a property, therefore it does control access. But, keys get lost or stolen, and if an ex-employee still holds a key and doesn’t return it, you then have the expense and hassle of getting the locks changed to ensure ongoing security.

There is another way

As a better solution to old-fashioned keys, modern commercial and domestic properties often have state-of-the-art access control systems installed as standard. These systems not only control who enters a property, they can also control when someone enters, how many people enter at a given time, plus, if a key fob is lost or stolen, the system can quickly be reconfigured to maintain security levels.

Types of access control

Although all access controls have the same basic purpose of controlling access, there are various different types designed to suit different needs. To help you decide which access control system to choose, we’ve listed the main types, including a short description of each.

The four main types of access control systems include:

1 - Fob access

Key fobs and key card access control systems are often used in multiple-occupancy residential properties, to manage tenant access in and out of the building. A key fob access control system is a relatively simple device, consisting of three key components, including:

• A key fob – A key fob or key card is a small device or card containing an electronic chip loaded with the credentials of the holder.
• An access reader – An access reader is the device that reads the key fob or card, to verify the person wishing to enter
• An automatic door lock – Locks for this type of access control system are either electric or magnetic, and are designed to read the signal from the access reader to determine whether to allow access or not.

2 - Access control keypad

An access control keypad is an access control system that allows entry into a building or a room after entering a pre-set PIN. Operated via a touchscreen interface, this type of access control system benefits by not relying on authorised users or tenants to carry a physical item, such as a key fob or card.

3 - Phone entry systems

A phone entry access control system is a way for you to communicate with visitors prior to them entering your property. This type of device is ideal when used at multi-user gated entrances, especially if security is a predominant factor. Another benefit to modern phone entry systems is that some are compatible with card readers, transponders and proximity sensors.

4 - Biometric access control

Biometric access control is an advanced access control system that reads a person’s unique physical attributes before allowing access.

Some of the most common biometric access control systems use fingerprints, facial recognition and iris scanning to allow access. Due to these devices requiring a physical presence to authenticate, biometric access control systems are considered some of the most secure systems available, and are often used in high-security environments, such as airports, prison facilities and government offices.

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Reactive Doors is a leading automatic door specialist supplying high-quality automatic doors and access control systems to businesses throughout Milton Keynes and much further afield.