Top 5 Access Control Problems for Businesses

January 24, 2022

No doubt you want your business to be secure. But, as with any technology, access control systems can have some issues. Certain systems require complex hardware, others require an extensive amount of system knowledge, some may not be secure enough! Access control systems can also be improperly managed or set up, which can cause a wide variety of issues and lower security. In this piece, we’ll take a look at some of the problems plaguing access control systems for businesses.

Complex Hardware

A door is a door, right? Maybe not. Doors look simple, but they can be complex to control properly and safely. Integrating access means interfacing with complex components like locks that can be exceedingly frustrating and costly if not expected. This is especially true on a retrofit, should you want to keep existing doors in place. Furthermore, making modifications and maintaining high levels of workmanship can be a challenge for even experienced installers.

Operator Knowledge

Access control systems are complex, and it can be a challenge to make sure everyone properly understands the features, operation, and potential of access systems. If you have an incomplete picture of how the system can be used, there’s a good chance it’s not being used to its full potential. We’ve had customers call us to service an issue only to discover their system had a solution already in place.

It can be difficult to know who should be the internal “gatekeeper” for this type of information. If your industry is one with a high level of turnover, it can be even more challenging. It’s on the integrator to fully educate the end-users so they can firmly establish which features are important. However, it’s also important to have in-house resources available for individuals who need more detail on your system.

Security Concerns

The majority of access control problems stem from outdated equipment, misplaced keycards, or access falling into the wrong hands. Without proper setup, a business’ access control system can have a wide range of vulnerabilities. From easily compromised passwords to poor management and even the use of keycards, businesses can fall short in providing the most secure and optimized access control system.

Keycards

To some degree, any keycard system has at least one inherent weakness: you simply don’t know that the person swiping the card is the actual person that the card belongs to. Keycards can also easily end up in the wrong person’s pocket, whether it be intentional or accidental. While biometrics is where the industry is heading, fingerprint and retinal scanner technology are still relatively expensive.

[mkb-tip]Keycard authorization can be used in tandem with other methods of authorization, like PIN numbers or user IDs. That way if someone forgets their keycard, they can use a code on the keypad instead.[/mkb-tip]

Old Accounts

If someone leaves your business, disable their user account. Period. There is no reason for accounts to exist on access control systems for people who no longer need to use them. If you are in any doubt as to who can access what, carry out an access control audit. It might take a short while, but it’s the only way to work out who has access to what.

Make sure there are clear channels to ensure that once people leave, their credentials are disabled – same day. You can also put a mop-up process in place that looks for any accounts that have been inactive for more than 30 days.

Improper Installation

A business can run into a whole host of problems when an access control system isn’t set up properly. Analyzing your specific needs, making the right choices, and designing the best system for you takes time and expertise. Plus, it should seamlessly integrate with your other business technologies.

When it comes to keeping your building or area safe, don’t take it lightly. Working with a consultant helps you make the right choices when there are so many you need to make. From choosing the right equipment to designing the system to be easy to use for your purposes, a knowledgeable partner is a key to avoiding improper setup and setting yourself up for success.

System Management

To use access control systems properly, businesses need someone who is dedicated to being the manager. This role should be established the moment the system is implemented, as they will play an important role in keeping track of visitors in the building or area, managing the roles and levels of access to employees and vendors, managing lost password/identification, managing data, and more.

Additionally, access control systems require regular maintenance and check-ups. If a system or technology is not up-to-date, it can cause issues with the system function — which then compromises security. Having someone in charge of overseeing the day-to-day details of your system will help make sure everything stays updated and running smooth.

Let’s Get Started

Getting access control right can be a laborious task – but don’t take shortcuts! All users should be securely provisioned, assigned privileges according to their role or function, and given information on a need-to-know basis. It’s vital that an access control system is set up properly to avoid issues down the road.