Commercial Security: How to Choose the Best Access Control System

October 30, 2022 by Anas Mustafa

When it comes to choosing the right access control system and security for your business needs, you may be wondering what factors you need to consider.

Essentially, an access control system ensures that only those that have the proper credentials are allowed access and entry into your property or business. It restricts those with unauthorized access from entering and posing a potential risk.

There are many different types of access control systems such but newer cloud based systems are preferred. There are also many different types of card readers that can accept key fobs, access cards, smartphones, and more to gain access to a building. Most businesses usually benefit from a combination of these different methods. If you are unsure which of these approaches will work for your business, keep reading to find out what you should be considering when it comes to access control.

What is access control?

Basically, access control refers to the security systems in place to restrict entry to certain rooms or areas for unauthorized individuals. This is important if you are running a business with employees, guests, and other workers who need access to certain areas during the day.

Perhaps you need to allow them access to specific rooms while restricting entry to these same areas for others and the general public. Access control can be in the form of security guards standing watch at the doors or a key fob entry system. Many businesses also use access control systems to ensure they have a history of who came into the building as each access card is associated with an individual. Either way, access control is a type of security that restricts and allows access, all based on your business and safety needs.

Assess Your Property

Before you can determine what type of access control you will need, it is best to assess your property and identify any weaknesses in security. This way, you can get a good idea of what type of security (and how much of it) you actually need.

For example, if your commercial property has several doors that need securing and you have many employees, your access control system will be more complex. In contrast, a building that only has a couple of doors and not many employees will require less complicated monitoring.

Consider Your Location

Another question to ask is whether your building is located in an area with high traffic or frequent crime. If so, you may have to tighten up more on security, especially if you know that your building could be a target of theft or criminal activity.

However, even if your location isn’t known for crime, it’s still a good idea to have security measures in place. After all, you never know when or where crime can occur, and the peace of mind from being properly secured is often well worth the price.

Choose Cloud-Based Software

As opposed to on-site software that requires installation, management fees and a dedicated computer and/or server, cloud-based software is quickly gaining popularity for being convenient and customizable. Cloud-based access control systems are a great option, particularly if your business has multiple locations. With cloud based systems you don’t need an IT professional to make changes to your locking/unlocking schedules or add/delete access cards from the system. Many cloud based systems have a user friendly app that allows you to make changes very easily and even unlock/lock the door remotely. Also some of the best access control systems can even integrate with your alarm system and your security cameras.

Consider Having Multiple Ways To Gain Access

All in all, it’s best to layer up when it comes to security. Don’t just rely on one security system or method to keep things in check. Most organizations use a combination of badges, fobs, mobile credentials, and biometrics (such as fingerprint or facial recognition). Some of these security systems can be paired with mobile devices to make them more convenient, and to offer even more security.

Adding additional layers to your security also means that you and your employees have a failsafe should someone forget their key fob or passcode. When you can rely on multiple ways to gain access like unlocking the door remotely from your smartphone, it makes your business run a whole lot smoother.

What Factors to Look For

Ultimately, there are some key points that you should look out for when choosing an access control system. These things include touchless capabilities, integration with existing alarms and cameras, remote access, and real-time notifications.

You also want to make sure the systems you choose are customizable and not difficult to use or navigate. Your access control system should work for you and not the other way around! When choosing an access control system for your business, the type of technology and usability matter.

When it comes to your commercial security systems, make sure to choose a security company that you trust. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and investigate further on the different types of access control systems available. The safety and security of your business should be a top priority, and your security systems should reflect that.

For more information on access control and commercial security systems in Ontario and the GTA, please call Canadian Security Professionals at 1-877-494-9911 or contact us here. We are the security professionals that you can trust. Contact us today for more information on our services, and check out our testimonials here.

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