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Writer's pictureAshley Gerthoffer

Understanding Access Control Systems


Access Control

In a commercial environment, there are many different aspects of security. You want to keep your business safe from theft, and that includes who has access to your property as well as your computer files. A Sonitrol access control system can regulate who has access to both of these things.

Access control is broken down to two different types; physical and logical.

Physical access control refers to who has access to the actual company location, i.e. business buildings and offices.

Logical access control regulates who has access to the actual computer data. Access control can provide authorization identification, access approval, accountability of PINs and passwords, biometric scans and physical or electronic keys.

Access control can also be broken down into four different categories:

Mandatory Access Control: This is where only the administrator manages the access control. He or she defines the usage and access policies and this can not be modified by any other user. Mandatory Access Control is usually used in systems where confidentiality is key.

Discretionary Access Control: This is access control on more of a ‘need to know’ basis. It requires permission to those who need access at that time.

Role Based Access Control: Access here is limited and is contingent on the role of the individual within the company. The roles defined, and the access the individuals are granted can depend on job competency, authority and their responsibility in the company.

Rule Based Access Control: In rule based access control, access may change as the rules of the business change. This is a workable system as long as the changes that dictate the rule based access control system are relatively small.

When looking at an access control system, there are some features that you should consider.

What medium are you going to use for access in your control system? A key card is probably the most common type of device by which a user can gain access. However, key cards can be transferred or stolen. A PIN code or biometric reading may be favorable to avoid situations like these.

How Complex Should Your Access Control System Be? Consider how many doors your building has and how many employees will have access to your business. This will help you determine how complex your system will need to be as well as some of the other features you will be needing.

Some other features you might want to consider include activity reporting which will notify you if anyone tries to access unauthorized areas. Access control can a very important part of keeping your company safe. If you are thinking of installing an access system, it’s important to understand what options are available to you. With some key general knowledge, finding the right access control system for your business can be a lot easier. Call us today for more inforamition about access control and how Sonitrol can help your company! 704-423-1111

815 Wood Ridge Center Drive

Charlotte, NC 28217

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