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Commercial Access Control Systems: A Guide for Businesses

Sep 14, 2023

If you’re considering how to outfit your business with commercial access control systems, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’ll explore the various aspects of commercial access control systems and how they can benefit your business.

Whether yours is a small startup, a large corporation, or even an educational institution, implementing reliable commercial access control systems is essential for ensuring the security and safety of your premises. Read on to learn which system is best for you.

The Basics of Commercial Access Control Systems

Security is of utmost importance in today’s evolving business landscape. As technology continues to evolve, businesses can take advantage of advanced solutions for customized commercial access control systems. 

Selecting the appropriate access control system for your specific needs can be a challenging task — and we’re here to help. Here are a few essential elements for you to consider before implementing your commercial access control systems.

Assess Your Needs

The first step in choosing access control systems is to assess your business’s unique operational needs. Take a moment to think about the following factors:

Security Objectives

Identify your biggest threats to your security — this will help you establish your main objectives. Are you primarily concerned with limiting access to specific areas, keeping track of employee movements, or perhaps a combination of both?

Number of Entry Points

Establish the number of entry points that will need access control. Some examples include doors, elevators, parking gates, and similar features. Control needs may vary depending on where these access points lead.

Employee and Visitor Count

Take into account the size of your staff and the number of people you can expect to frequent your location. Your commercial access control systems will need the capacity to accommodate this traffic.

Integration With Other Systems

Many of the most advanced commercial access control systems can be integrated with other security and automation features for a more seamless interface. Consider the systems you already have in place. Are there any that could use additional integration?

Types of Commercial Access Control Systems

Understanding the different methods used for access control is key to making an informed decision for your business Today’s market offers a wide range of commercial access control systems, each with varying levels of complexity and security. Here are a few options to consider:

Keycard or Fob Systems

These systems make versatile use of a deceptively simple element. Key cards and fobs can be reprogrammed as needed to adjust levels of access credentials. Likewise, they can be deactivated if lost, ensuring your facilities remain secure in the event of an accident.

Biometric Access Systems

Biometric scanners, while seemingly futuristic, are quickly becoming the modern standard for access control, especially for digital security. These systems are designed to read distinct physiological characteristics through fingerprinting, retinal scans, or facial recognition. If the recorded features are detected, access is granted. 

Keypad / PIN Code Entry

Perhaps the most tried and tested option, keypad systems use codes or PINs as a means of gaining access. This approach is both budget-friendly and straightforward to handle, though it leaves something to be desired in terms of strict security.

Mobile Credentials

Mobile access control is an innovative, modern solution that allows individuals to use their smartphones as access credentials, providing superior convenience and flexibility compared to more traditional options.

Additional Factors to Consider:

Future Scalability

Take some time to think about the projected growth of your business in the near future. Can your commercial access control systems handle a growing number of employees and access points? Investing in a scalable system can help you avoid the inconvenience of having to replace the entire setup in the future.

Convenient Management Interface

It’s best to choose a system that comes equipped with easy-to-use management software. An access control interface should be intuitive and elegant, allowing you to easily add or remove access, create personalized access schedules, and receive alerts in real time.

Levels of Security

Security levels may vary across different areas within your business. Depending on the needs of your particular field, greater levels of customization may be necessary to keep appropriate clearance levels in check.

Budgetary Factors

Though investing in security is essential, it’s important to consider how your system fits within your budget. Beyond the upfront expenses, consider the upkeep cost and potential expenses for future growth.

Expert Consultation

Finding the perfect commercial access control systems for you can be a uniquely challenging task. Getting advice from security experts like the team at PEAK Alarm can provide valuable insights for your access control.

Build Your Commercial Access Control Systems With PEAK

With the right team to help, choosing your unique commercial access control systems setup can be a simple process. Here at PEAK Alarm, we know that every business is different. Your security needs will be unique, so our approach to your access control will be tailored to your business. 

Get in touch today to discover how our state-of-the-art commercial access control systems can protect your business for years to come.

Protect what matters most to you: Contact PEAK Alarm today.