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How To Choose The Right Access Control System For Your Business

Writer's picture: KCS ProjectsKCS Projects


Safety and security are critical considerations for businesses of all sizes.


Ensuring that your premises remain accessible only to authorised personnel, potential customers, and scheduled visitors is essential to protecting your assets against risks such as theft and vandalism, and to maintaining a safe work environment for everyone on site.


Access control systems are an ideal solution for the effective management and control of entry points in a business premises. But with a wide variety of options available, how do you choose the right one for your business?


Let’s look at a process that will help you find the perfect access control system for your needs.



Step 1: Identify Your Requirements


To choose the right access control system for your premises, you must be able to understand your business’ security requirements.


Evaluate your premises' layout, the number of entry points, and the level of security you require. For instance, are you looking for a system that can easily integrate with your existing security systems? And does your business hold stock, or sell high-value items?


Understanding your needs will lay the foundation for your security strategy.



Step 2: Assess Potential Risks And Vulnerabilities


Simply knowing your needs is not enough; you must also identify potential security risks and vulnerabilities. Conduct a thorough risk assessment to identify areas that require enhanced security measures - like for example, offices containing sensitive information or valuables.


This assessment will help you to decide which areas need enhanced security and determine the level of security needed in these locations.



Step 3: Explore Your Access Control Options


Access control systems are highly flexible, and are available to serve a wide variety of security needs.


There are three types to consider: Role-Based Access Control (RBAC), Discretionary Access Control (DAC), and Mandatory Access Control (MAC):


• RBAC grants or denies access based on an individual's job role, offering a practical solution for managing different access levels within your organisation


• DAC monitors access at individual entry points, making it an excellent choice for businesses with multiple departments, or for when several companies share the same premises


• MAC is the most secure option, allowing you to set strict rules for entry into sensitive areas while maintaining high security



Step 4: Choose Between Traditional vs. IP/Cloud-Based Systems


Now that you understand the type of access control type you require, you need to choose between a traditional or IP/cloud-based system.


Traditional systems are hardwired, making them reliable and less susceptible to hacking. However, they may be more expensive and less flexible for integration with other security systems.


IP/cloud-based systems, on the other hand, operate over the internet, offering remote access management and greater cost-effectiveness.


While these systems are more budget-friendly and convenient, they may be more susceptible to hacking in the event of a data breach.



Step 5: Prioritise Scalability And Future-Proofing


As your business grows, your access control system should be able to grow with it.


Choose a solution which is scalable and that can adapt to your future needs. Whether you're expanding to new locations or planning for business growth, having a flexible system will prevent issues from arising in the future.



Step 6: Have A User-Friendly Interface


Managing access control shouldn't be complicated! Look for a system with an intuitive and user-friendly interface that simplifies access management for your team.


Having a user-friendly system means that you can focus on your core business while delegating security responsibilities to your staff.



Step 7: Ensure There Is Adequate Data Security And Privacy


For IP/cloud-based systems, data security and privacy are critical considerations.


Ensure that the system you choose adheres to industry-standard encryption protocols and complies with relevant data privacy regulations. Protecting your data is not only essential for your business' security but also for maintaining trust with your customers and employees.



Accessing The Right Solutions


Choosing the right access control system for your business is an investment in the safety of your assets and your staff. Plus, by having the right access control system in place, you can focus on running your business while delegating day-to-day security management to a responsible member of your team.


To find the ideal solution for your security requirements, ensure that you understand your business needs, assess potential risks, and explore your options. Then, whether you choose RBAC, DAC, or MAC access control systems – and whether you use traditional or IP/cloud-based configurations - make sure you prioritise scalability, user-friendliness, and data security.


If this all seems overwhelming and like an information overload, know that we are always available to answer any questions you may have regarding the security needs of your business.


Contact us today on 01234 230690 to speak to a member of our friendly team!


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