Access Control Systems in Portland Oregon has never been more critical. Organizations of all types face risks ranging from the spread of COVID-19 to theft to mass shootings. The civil unrest that swept Portland is bound to recur with little or no warning. Companies have a responsibility to protect their property, employees, contractors, and customers.
Access control systems keep people and goods safe. They prevent unauthorized persons from entering private areas, create records of who accesses specific spaces and restrict vehicle traffic. Without access control, many people feel unsafe. By providing security systems, organizations foster a safe environment where workers can stay focused, and customers enjoy visiting.
Modern access control systems run as standalone systems (no connectivity) and on the web or IoT. Standalone systems are less expensive but lack the many advantages of the cloud, such as system management by smartphone or computer. With either of the “”connected” options, four management styles exist: mandatory access control (MAC), discretionary access control(DAC), rules-based access control (RAC), and role-based access control (RBAC).
Types of Access Control Systems
Many types of access control devices are available in the marketplace. They range from standalone door gates to cloud-based, multi-unit, interconnected systems that manage heavy foot- and vehicle traffic. Focus Security Group’s safety consultants offer free site evaluations that determine all vulnerable points and recommend cost-effective solutions.
These are some of the access control systems currently available:
Stand alone
Web-Based Access Control
IoT-Based Access Control
Standalone
Stand alone access control gates are an inexpensive option. They provide some security, but are not connected to the web. For example, standalone security gates are used in many businesses to restrict pedestrian traffic. Standalone access control devices require a key card, security code, or biometric marker, such as a fingerprint.
Web-Based Access Control
With web-based access control, managers can send “unlock codes” to a cloud server from WiFi or a cellular phone. In addition, the ability to open and close access control gates comes in handy for letting in delivery or maintenance people.
Many large institutions opt for web-based access control systems. Web-based access control comes with remote smartphone access, making them the best choice for large buildings, corporate campuses, and multiple locations. Permissions are stored on the cloud, allowing them to be updated from offsite. Also, managers can run analytics reports from a smartphone or computer.
Web-based access control allows users to manage 100% of security functions from a smartphone.
IoT Based Access Control
The Internet of Things (IoT) does more than create home conveniences. It also serves to modernize commercial access control. With an IoT system, the controllers and readers are linked via the internet. In addition, firmware updates are automated, so the system is always current with security patches.
IoT architectures also block unapproved devices from the network. This security feature stops hackers from gaining access to a building through technical malfeasance.
Mandatory Access Control
Military installations, law enforcement stations, and other locations requiring strict security opt for mandatory access control. This type of access control covers all doors in a facility, with a system administrator controlling the settings and permissions. Users cannot alter the system and permissions. If your business needs tight security, MAC is the most secure option, though it is also one of the most costly.
Discretionary Access Control
Most commercial access control systems are discretionary. Discretionary systems allow managers to make their own decisions about granting access. In addition, they can choose different levels of access for teams and single employees.
Role-Based Access Control
Also called non-discretionary access control, RBAC grants entry to users based on their role within the organization. This allows you to assign permissions based on job titles effortlessly. For example, if the company promotes an employee and hires another to take his or her place, you can reassign a keycard in a flash.
Rule-Based Access Control
RACs differ from role-based systems. Like DAC, a system administrator controls RAC systems. Unlike a DAC, RACs create rules that govern access at certain times. These systems work well for large employers, such as factories, that run shifts at specific times.
Access Control for Small- and Medium-Sized Businesses
Smaller businesses often choose discretionary access control. It is a more cost-effective option and it gives direct control to management. For most companies, web-based or IoT provides the most convenience, allowing them to manage access from offsite.
Your Phone As Key
Old-fashioned keys have caused smaller businesses a great deal of trouble. They frequently disappear, and former employees retain access to sensitive areas. By installing web-based access control, small businesses can remove unauthorized devices from the network with the click of a few buttons.
Access Control for Large Businesses
Enterprise businesses need enterprise-level commercial security. Because large companies employ so many people, they have a more considerable security risk. A web-based MAC system provides the tightest form of access control in the market and is well-suited for big companies.
To ensure the tightest security, large businesses should pair robust access control systems with video monitoring. With all access points under the watchful eye of security pros, there is little opportunity for trespassing or other criminal activities.
Factories and Plants
Anywhere there is heavy machinery, accidents happen with unfortunate regularity. Factory and plant managers have a responsibility to protect their workforce and anyone who visits. Access control gates create restricted zones. By using a web-based system, the company can set permissions so that only trained personnel can gain proximity to dangerous equipment. By tossing out old-fashioned keys and using smartphones for entry, the plant or factory can prevent accidents.
MAC systems are an option for big manufacturing facilities, but some factories and plants have no budget for military-level security. A web or IoT- based RAC is a great alternative for workplaces that need to control access to certain parts of a facility based on job title.
Schools and Government Buildings
Riots in Pacific Northwest cities have businesses on edge. The amount of property destruction and violence aimed at government facilities makes the need for tight security clear. As with large companies, schools and government facilities see a lot of faces, and it’s impossible to know everyone. By deploying a web-based or IoT MAC system combined with video surveillance, institutions can both control- and monitor access.
Organizations face the risk of unauthorized people trespassing or committing other crimes, making access control systems a necessity. Companies have a responsibility to protect the people who work or visit the premises. To be productive, employees must know they are safe.
By providing web-based or IoT security systems, organizations can manage permissions remotely and turn off device access when necessary. Paired with video surveillance, access control creates a hard target and discourages malfeasance.