Key Considerations When Choosing an Access Control System
Before diving into specific systems, think about these key factors:
Budget
Access control systems range from basic setups to high-security systems for protecting valuable assets. Consider how much you’re willing to invest and what level of security you truly need. Initial installation costs can range from £500 to over £5,000, depending on complexity and the type of system.
Number of People
Are you controlling access for a handful of employees, or managing a constant flow of staff, visitors, and deliveries? The more users you have, the more important ease of access management becomes. Role-Based Access Control (RBAC), which assigns access based on job roles, is particularly efficient for larger organizations. It controls who has access to certain areas or data.
Number of Doors
Are you securing a single entrance, or multiple internal and external doors (one or two doors, or many more)? The scale of your needs directly impacts system complexity and cost. Do you need to limit access to certain zones?
Types of Access Control Systems
Let’s explore some main types of access control:
Key Fob Access Control
These access systems use electronic fobs that communicate with sensors near the door (card reader). They’re quick and easy to use, and you can easily add or remove fobs to control access. You can even program fobs to allow access to specific doors only. However, they can become expensive for businesses with a large number of employees, and lost or stolen fobs pose a security risk (security breaches). RFID Technology is popular in this type of access control.
A common example is the RFID key fob system, often seen in corporate offices where employees tap their fobs against a reader to gain entry. These systems are prevalent in corporate offices, educational institutions, and healthcare facilities, where secure access is a top priority. Installation costs typically range from £350 to £1,000 per door, with each fob costing around £5. For a medium-sized business with 50 employees, this could mean a total cost of £1,500 to £3,000 for both fob issuance and system installation.
Keypad Access
These systems typically use numerical codes for entry (authentication). They’re generally cheaper to install and manage than fob systems because there’s no extra hardware. Changing codes is also quick and easy. The downside is that you can’t track individual users (no individual access logs), and you might need to change codes frequently if staff leave to restrict access.
A typical keypad system requires users to enter a PIN code on a numeric keypad to unlock the door. This type of system is commonly found in gyms, schools, and office buildings where quick access without the need for physical keys is desired. The cost for installing a keypad system generally ranges from £300 to £700 per door. Each user might incur an additional cost of about £1.50 to £3 for issuing PIN codes, but this is a relatively minor expense.
Swipe Card Access
These use cards with magnetic strips (key card), similar to hotel key cards. They are a relatively inexpensive option for installation and they offer a cheaper method of entry. Magnetic Strips can become damaged overtime, which can be frustrating.
Swipe card systems, where users gain entry by swiping a magnetic or proximity card through a reader, are often used in universities, apartment complexes, and offices. These environments often need to monitor attendance or limit access to specific areas. Installation costs for swipe card systems can range from £400 to £900 per door, and the cards themselves typically cost between £2 and £5 each.
Video Door Entry Systems
These systems use CCTV cameras to let you visually identify visitors before granting access permissions. This provides a high level of access control, but it can be more expensive to operate because it often requires someone (security personnel) to monitor the system.
Video door entry systems allow users to see who is at the door via a video feed before granting access, and they often integrate intercom functionality. These systems are widely used in residential buildings, gated communities, and secure commercial premises where visual verification is important. The installation of video door entry systems can vary significantly but generally ranges from £500 to over £1,200, depending on features like video quality and connectivity options.
Wireless Door Entry Systems
These often integrate with intercom and video systems, using WiFi for communication (remote access). They’re cheaper and faster to install than wired systems because there are no cables to run. They’re also easier to reconfigure if your needs change. However, the initial cost of wireless systems can be higher. Biometric systems, including facial recognition, are becoming increasingly popular additions to enhance security.
Wireless door entry systems, which use mobile devices or keyless entry methods (like Bluetooth) for access, are commonly found in modern offices, coworking spaces, and smart homes. Convenience and flexibility are key priorities in these environments. Installation costs for wireless systems typically range from £400 to £900 per door. Additional software or mobile app costs might apply, depending on the specific system used.
Making the Right Choice for Your Business
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Revisit the key considerations – budget, number of people, and number of doors. Think about your specific priorities and how your needs might evolve in the future. Could you need to expand the system or integrate it with other security measures? The best access control system is ideal for your situation.
The UK Electronic Access Control Systems Market was valued at approximately £1.1 billion in 2023, and it’s growing, driven by increasing security concerns. Access control is a vital part of protecting assets and people. Physical access control is crucial for preventing crimes, and it also helps businesses comply with broader regulations like the Health and Safety at Work Act. A significant number of UK businesses, especially in sectors like finance and healthcare, have already adopted these access control types.
Consulting with access control experts is invaluable. They can assess your unique situation (user access needs and access requests) and design a system that’s perfect for you. They can help implement strong access control policies.
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