What is access control and how does it work

Access control is a security device that only allows authorized people to enter with a password, identification card or even a face scanner.

In other words, access control protects a place, area or zone from thieves or unauthorized people, thus avoiding possible acts of vandalism. 

There are many types of access controls that authorize the passage thanks to a card, a code or a fingerprint that commands the order to open the electric lock or motor.

Therefore, we are going to have these two components: An access control (of whatever type) and an electric lock or motor connected to the access control.

Facial Recogination

Palm Recognition/ Mask Detection

Fingerprint Recogination

Types of access control

There are three basic types of access control on the market:

– An access control system where the user has a password or PIN that must be entered to access.

– An object that the user has and that allows him to enter, such as a smart card or a key ring.

– Something that the user is, like the fingerprint or the one verified by biometric measurement.

Once this first classification has been made, we will talk about each type one by one.

 

Biometric access control

Biometric access control is one of the safest systems that allows you to identify the user more quickly and easily. There are different “types”, but today fingerprint readers and facial recognition stand out.

Facial recognition to control access is now a reality. Today, we can see it integrated into some smartphones that are coming on the market and that allow you to unlock your mobile phone without having to type a password or touch the touch screen, simply by scanning your face.

 

Access control with password

The password is a common means of verifying the identity of a person and giving him access to information or allowing him to enter the place.

But these systems have become somewhat obsolete because they are no longer secure, since anyone who knew the password could enter. That is why other options are chosen, such as fingerprint recognition, as we have talked about before, or the use of objects. (Access control by proximity).

 

Access control by proximity. (keys, cards)

Proximity access control allows entry or access thanks to a key ring or identification card. These objects have a chip that usually works thanks to wireless technologies such as RFID or NFC (Near Field Communication or near field communication).

When we bring this chip closer to the system, it recognizes it and sends the order to open and allow the passage.

This system is widely used in airport or train station ticket offices.

How to choose an access control system.

Depending on the use that you are going to give your access control.
If you are going to use it to control employee access, we recommend a biometric fingerprint control system, as this will ensure that no one else can access your company.
If that access is not always for the same person, for example, locker locks in sports centers, saunas, resorts, universities, or hospitals, the ideal for you are RFID electronic locks or proximity access controls.
If you are looking for a security system for your home, the biometric with fingerprint sensor and card is still a good option.

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