The global access-control market is projected to reach a total value of $10.4bn by 2020, growing at a CAGR of 10.6%, according to research by Markets and Markets.
Access control technically includes the time-honoured mechanical lock and key, but when people talk about access control in the modern security industry, they mean sophisticated electronic turnstiles, gates, wireless locks and other barriers increasingly incorporating aspects of IT and physical security.
Keys can be lost, stolen and copied, leaving assets vulnerable and requiring an expensive change of locks. Happily, when an electronic access card is lost or stolen, access rights can be withdrawn immediately, rendering the card inactive. Should thieves gain access before a theft is noticed, operators can identify when they breached security and – if there are multiple access points – where in the building they are at any given time.
Modern access-control systems also offer flexible access rights. For example, while all staff can generally gain access through a building’s main entrance, access to certain internal areas may be restricted to those with relevant authority. Access can also be restricted to specific time periods.
The plastic access card has long been the dominant form of identity verification. While they still govern access for most installed systems, biometric solutions – usually authenticating identity through facial, fingerprint and iris recognition – are becoming more reliable, affordable and widespread.
Often accused of being a conservative industry the access control sector is finally emulating its CCTV counterpart in embracing IP, open-platform technology, the internet of things and integration with, and interoperability between, building systems. Mobile access – gaining access using smartphones – is one burgeoning trend with numerous operational benefits.
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Access control is provided to Waddesdon Manor, home to the Rothschild Collection of paintings, sculptures and decorative arts. Read More
February 1, 2023
As the wider security industry has digitalised, so to have locking and access solutions that Abloy develops to match customer demand. Read More
January 16, 2023
Understanding why physical security professionals are so concerned about credential theft, and how they can mitigate the risk. Read More
January 10, 2023
Focus uses ASSA ABLOY’s SMARTair access control system with Wireless Online management for more office space flexibility. Read More
December 6, 2022
A Scottish social housing provider has teamed up with Videx to equip supported living flats with a customised solution. Read More
November 16, 2022
Comelit-PAC is expanding its PAC Access Control Range with the launch of the 511DCi IP One Door Controller. Read More
November 15, 2022
Allegion has acquired plano.group, better known as plano, the provider of a software-as-a-service (SaaS) workforce management solution. Read More
November 15, 2022
The Bucharest Transport Company has upgraded its access control system to improve flexibility for staff with an integrated time & attendance platform. Read More
November 11, 2022
Alcatraz AI has expanded into the European and Middle Eastern markets, noting strong demand for frictionless access control solutions. Read More
October 28, 2022
ASSA ABLOY explains how its SMARTair solution has helped meet security needs while improving flexibility for users at a French coworking space. Read More