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 Happily, when an electronic access card is lost or stolen, access rights can be withdrawn immediately, rendering the card inactive.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.
November 24, 2020
ASSA ABLOY Opening Solutions explains how its Aperio E100 Wireless Escutcheon offers both flexibility and a trusted level of security. Read More
November 19, 2020
Paxton has created a no-nonsense, 30-minute webinar based on the UK government guidelines, ‘Working safely during COVID-19’. Read More
November 11, 2020
Paxton has launched several COVID-secure updates for Net2, alongside launching its new installer app to support systems installers. Read More
November 5, 2020
Join our upcoming webinar, where we are set to discuss the process of moving to mobile access control, with advice from HID Global and a live case study courtesy of Avolon. Read More
October 19, 2020
“Touchless identification convenience. That’s the future.” So says Philippe Niederhauser, Touchless Biometric Systems in an exclusive IFSEC Global interview. Read More
October 14, 2020
At the InHolland University of Applied Sciences, a rolling project to upgrade access control at all locations has been ongoing for several years. The institution wanted to improve security while remaining open and accessible. Read More
October 12, 2020
Axis Communications recently discussed frictionless access control during a live event hosted on IFSEC Global. We report on some of the key talking points. Read More
October 8, 2020
Residents at Union Wharf in Greenwich have recently been treated to a multifunctional design from Comelit, incorporating real-time energy monitoring and smart door entry. Read More
October 7, 2020
Axis Communications give viewers an overview of its frictionless access control solutions, followed by a live Q&A. Read More
October 7, 2020
Watch as Traction Guest takes us through its integrated visitor management system, demonstrating the experience of visitors and users. Read More