Secure your business by addressing these all-too-common access control mistakes.
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Why Access Control Matters More Than Ever
With modern security threats growing smarter and harder to predict, access control has become a critical way for businesses to safeguard their people, property, and data. Whether you’re a small business owner or a facility manager for a large campus, you probably rely on access control to make sure the right people are in the right places—while keeping unauthorized personnel out.
But here’s the hard truth: simply having an access control system isn’t enough.
Far too often, businesses install a basic system and assume they’re protected for good. In reality, poor configuration, neglectful management, or lack of system integration can open significant vulnerabilities. In some cases, the access control system that was supposed to enhance your security can actually introduce risk if not maintained and managed correctly.
Minor Oversights With Major Consequences
An access control mistake can be easy to miss in the moment—and costly in hindsight. We’ve seen everything from outdated credentials that allow former employees into sensitive areas to misconfigured permissions that leave entire zones exposed. These issues don’t just pose a risk to your assets—they can jeopardize employee safety, violate compliance standards, and lead to operational downtime or reputational harm.
The consequences of a simple oversight may include:
- Unauthorized access to private or high-security areas
- Loss or theft of sensitive data, inventory, or equipment
- Compliance violations with HIPAA or other industry-specific regulations
- Increased liability in the event of an incident
- System downtime due to neglected hardware or software updates
- Operational inefficiencies caused by overly complex user permissions
Here’s the thing: these problems don’t just affect large corporations. In fact, small and mid-sized businesses without dedicated security teams are frequently the most at risk. But don’t worry—there is plenty we can do about it.
5 Access Control Mistakes You Might Be Making
Here at PEAK Alarm, we work with clients across industries and various facility sizes, and we’ve seen numerous patterns emerge. Below are five of the most common access control mistakes—and how you can avoid them with expert planning and support.
1. Careless Credential Management
The most basic fact about access control is this: the technology is only as effective as the people who use it. Many businesses fail to implement strong policies around credentials—who gets access, when, and how. It’s not uncommon for former employees or contractors to retain active credentials long after they’ve left, or for shared access codes to float around unchecked.
The Fix:
Establish clear credential issuance and revocation protocols. Make sure credentials are unique to each user—and easy to deactivate if necessary. Implementing systems with mobile credentials, biometrics, or key fobs can also help eliminate the risks associated with physical keys or shared codes. Ask your security provider about your options!
2. Ignoring Your Access Logs
Manual access logs have become uncommon for a reason: they are simply not practical to use day-to-day. Recent technology has alleviated this with automation—the only thing left to do is use them. Despite the simplicity of modern access log management, many businesses fail to leverage this feature until something has already gone wrong.
The Fix:
Review access logs regularly—not just when there’s an incident. Set up automated reports to flag irregular patterns, such as access attempts during off-hours or at unauthorized doors. This gives you the power to spot potential issues before they escalate.
3. Poor or Nonexistent System Integration
Access control is strongest when it’s part of a larger security ecosystem. When businesses keep their access control system siloed from their video surveillance, alarms, or building management platforms, they miss out on valuable data and faster response times. The best security strategies are cohesive.
The Fix:
Choose an access control system that integrates with your existing security infrastructure. At PEAK Alarm, we help clients build fully integrated solutions that tie into video surveillance, intrusion alarms, and smart automation—making every layer of security work together seamlessly.
4. Overcomplicated Access Permissions
We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again—your security technology is only as diligent as its users. If your access control system is too difficult or over-complicated to use, you set yourself up for failure. Trying to accommodate every user and scenario can quickly lead to a tangled mess of access levels and exceptions. Complex permission structures tend to increase the likelihood of errors.
The Fix:
Keep access levels as simple and role-based as possible. Start with broad user categories (admin, employee, visitor, etcetera) and define access by job function. Regularly audit and streamline active permissions to ensure they reflect your current team structure and security priorities. Consistency is key!
5. Neglecting Regular Maintenance
Access control systems are often seen as a “set it and forget it” solution—until something breaks. In reality, air-tight access control is an ongoing and involved process. Without routine maintenance and updates, you run the risk of system failures, avoidable vulnerabilities, and costly downtime.
The Fix:
Firmware updates, battery checks, and hardware inspections are all essential to long-term performance, so be sure to schedule routine maintenance with a trusted provider. Here at PEAK Alarm, our technicians provide proactive service to ensure our systems stay secure, up-to-date, and operating at their best.
Don’t Let a Simple Mistake Undermine Your Security
Avoid these simple mistakes—and get the support you need to stay ahead of threats. Whether you need a new system, an upgrade, or a full audit of your current security, PEAK Alarm is here to help. Access control is a critical layer of protection, but only when implemented and maintained properly. The good news? You don’t have to manage it alone.
PEAK Alarm brings over 50 years of experience securing businesses and institutions across the Mountain West. We’re more than a vendor—we are a proactive partner that’s fully committed to your safety and success.
Get It Right the First Time—With PEAK Alarm
Avoiding these common access control mistakes can mean the difference between a secure facility and a vulnerable one. So, whether you’re upgrading an outdated system or planning a new installation, you can count on PEAK Alarm for professional design, installation, and ongoing support tailored to your needs. Let’s work together to make your access control simple, effective, and future-ready.
Protect what matters most to you. Contact PEAK Alarm today.
