Advancements in Access Control
At DFW Security, we strive to stay on the cutting edge, delivering not only the latest technology but the BEST technology.
Just because something is new, doesn’t mean it is better.
Sometimes when a new product or feature is released it doesn’t quite work as intended. But that doesn’t mean it won’t be great eventually. It’s vital to be strategic in your technology adoption.
Don’t have time to evaluate ever-changing access control technologies? No worries - That’s why DFW Security is here.
We always test new technologies in our own homes and facilities - so we can thoroughly understand how they function, work out all the kinks, and determine that they meet our strict standards before offering them to our customers.
Here’s an example: You may notice we sell pushbutton smart door locks rather than smart locks with touchscreens. While the lock touchscreen looks cool, we’ve discovered they’re prone to quite a few problems being outside. Reliability is important to us, and we’re just not comfortable recommending a product to our customers that they can’t depend on. As new models are released, we’ll keep exploring, but as I said before – not all technology is better just because it’s newer.
Let’s explore some of the latest Advancements in Access Control.
Phones Replace Badges
Now that most people carry their cell phones everywhere, electronic door entry systems have been developed where ID badges and/or key fobs are not needed.
Simply program the user’s credentials via the website, and they can use their phone at your facility’s entry points, whether interior or exterior.
Some advantages of phone-based access control:
- -No need to order, print or deliver badges to users
- -Credentials can be created or updated instantly from anywhere
- -No more lost badges or fobs to replace
- -Less chance of unauthorized entry. Users are less likely to give someone their phone versus a badge.
- -More secure since most phones are locked and utilize a fingerprint or code to open.
Not sure which solution is better for you? No worries, DFW Security can help you create a custom solution to meet your needs and budget.
Biometrics
Advancements in access control technology have made biometrics more common, reliable and affordable.
Here are a few examples of biometric methods that may be used in physical access control in Dallas, Texas:
Facial Recognition. The system scans your face and compares it with stored credentials to see if entry should be allowed or denied, as well as recording the fact that you attempted entry.
Fingerprint Analysis. Your index finger is scanned to confirm your identity and determine access rights.
Eye Scan. The system scans the iris of one or both of your eyes, compares it to authorized users, allows or denies entry and records the time of your entry.
Vocal Recognition. You speak a command, and the system authenticates your identity and access rights based on your voice.
While these systems are getting more and more reliable, there are still some common issues. For example, lighting, dirt, weather and shadows can affect performance, especially outdoors. DFW Security doesn’t recommend fully relying on biometrics yet, but we are constantly re-evaluating.
Video Integration
The integration quality between camera systems, alarm systems, and physical access control systems has greatly improved in recent years. Some of the more advanced access control systems, like Alarm.com and Verkada, excel at analyzing the information from all the systems to reach a conclusion and take action. For example, a video image can be analyzed to determine whether or not a door should be unlocked, an alarm system disarmed, and/or someone notified.
Artificial Intelligence
The use of artificial intelligence can improve the performance of almost all systems, and access control is no exception. A.I. can quickly and efficiently analyze millions of data points to recognize patterns, identify anomalies, and alert administrators, such as an employee entering at an unusual time or in an unusual manner. Artificial intelligence is also the protocol used in biometrics systems to allow or prevent entry to certain areas of a facility.
Data Encryption
Cloud-based access control systems keep getting better and better at encrypting data and preventing hacks. This is especially important with legal and compliance considerations like GDPR, HIPAA and PCI DSS. Top-rated access control systems in Dallas use secure communication protocols, end-to-end encryption, and advanced encryption standard AES-256.
Finding the right building entry system can be complicated. DFW Security can help you upgrade to the latest technology with a reliable, affordable, customized access control solution for your facility.
