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Buying Guide for Access Control Systems
An access control system is designed to admit only authorized personnel into specific areas of your business to keep unauthorized people or consumers out. There are many types of access control systems on the market, including electronic touchpads to secure a single door to large networks that can secure buildings, parking lot gates, and more with various security levels. Depending on your needs, the system can be standardized with a single key that controls all doors in the building or each access point can be individually controlled.
Many types of businesses and organizations have a need for increased security, retail businesses, colleges, and commercial environments. Along with the benefit of improving security, access control systems also streamline building management. There is no need to retrieve keys from terminated employees, replace keys that have been lost, or carefully oversee who has access to which areas of the facility.
Our Buying Guide will help you understand how access control systems work, the types of features available, typical prices, and how to choose the system that is right for your facility.
Locks & Credentials
There are two main components of any access control system: the locks and the credentials that grant access. There are many types of credentials to choose from that grant authorized users access. There is no solution that works best for every facility. Here are the most common types of security credentials:
Card readers.
This style is most common in commercial access control systems as it is very easy to manage and, if any cards are lost, the cards can be deactivated and replaced easily. Photo identification can also be added to increase security.
Keypads.
This type of credential is typically used to secure individual doors and it's one of the most affordable systems. Keypads are very easy to use but they are less secure because employees often write down codes or lend them out. There is also no way to audit entry records unless you want to assign every person their own code.
Key card access.
This style uses RFID technology along with proximity cards. There is no contact between the card reader and the card.
There are also other options to consider: biometric systems offer the greatest security as well as the highest cost. Auto tags allow access into a parking area without an employee leaving their car, and magnetic stripes can save money if your facility already uses them.
The second important component of the system is the locks, which are controlled by the security system. Electric strikes and magnetic locks are the two most common options to choose from. Electric strikes are the most affordable and usually the better choice for free exit doors, whereas magnetic locks work best for glass and aluminum doors or for controlled exit doors.
Software & Features
As you compare security access control systems, the biggest feature that sets them apart is the software they use. The system software allows you to conduct audits on who uses each door and when or set access levels for every entry and user.
Ideally, the software should be very easy to understand. It should also be compatible with your computers' operating system. If you wish to avoid using your own computers, you can also choose a system that uses managed access control (MAC) software, which is hosted by the seller and accessed through a browser. While you can enjoy power backup to ensure the system is always running, you may be unable to make changes if your Internet goes down. There is also a monthly fee for this service.
As you compare access control systems, consider the following important features:
Tracking.
Systems vary in the level of detail you can track. Make sure you understand the types of reports you can generate.
Battery backup.
Do you want to keep your facility safe, even if there is a power failure?
Timing.
Some systems allow you to set times during which doors lock or unlock. This is important if some doors should be open to the public during specific times.
Badge printing.
Does the seller provide a printer to create new cards as needed?
Audits.
Audits give you a time and date stamp for every successful or attempted door unlock.
Swipe cards.
This feature allows you to install proximity readers on turnstiles for keycard access.
Mobile features.
You may appreciate access control at remote locations with features like touchscreens for users to enter how many people are entering a building or room.
Voice control.
Do you want an intercom or telephone entry system?
Pricing
It can be difficult to estimate how much an access control system will cost you as the price will be very specific to your needs and the size of your facility. Still, you can get a general guideline to help you understand the cost.
The most basic card-based or keypad system for a single door will cost between $1,500 and $2,500 installed. You can expect to pay about $1,600 per entryway for the system, although the cost per door will decrease as you add more doors. Access control systems are typically available with 1, 2, 4, 8, or 16 doors for each panel.
Of course, the more features you add, the higher the cost. A complete access control system with biometric readers, full networking, and electronic locks can easily exceed $10,000.
A common mistake many business owners make is purchasing the cheapest system based solely on the price. Doing so may save you in the short-term but the system will likely lack the technology or security you need. While price is an important consideration, ultimately you need a system that is reliable and a good investment.
Requesting quotes from several sellers is important. Make sure you compare apples to apples, however; compare the cost of systems with the same features and technology. Be sure to ask about the warranty and support the seller will provide as well. You can expect a basic manufacturer's warranty although you should have the option to get an extended warranty or a maintenance contract on the system.
Summary & Tips
Choosing the right access control system for your facility may seem a bit overwhelming but it can help to first consider your needs before shopping. Consider not only your current security needs but also what your business will need in the future. It's also important to consider the design of the system and how practical it will be for your facility and it should be scalable, which means you can add additional entryways or features in the future.
Keep the following criteria in mind as you compare systems:
ID.
The system should verify identity and allow access based on different security clearance levels.
Accountability.
The system should record access at specific entry points.
Authorization.
The system should grant authorization to necessary users at doorways.
Regardless of which system you choose, make sure you do your due diligence. Research the software, the manufacturer, and the seller.