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.
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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 Happily, when an electronic access card is lost or stolen, access rights can be withdrawn immediately, rendering the card inactive.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.
July 22, 2019
We seem to use our smartphones for everything - yet mobile phones are actually under-utilised when it comes to building security and access management. Read More
July 19, 2019
When we think about ourselves or a loved one becoming injured or ill and needing professional care, we’d like to […] Read More
July 19, 2019
IDEMIA, a global leader in security and ‘augmented identity’ solutions, launched two ground-breaking products at IFSEC 2019. These innovations are discussed in two videos filmed at the London security show. Read More
July 19, 2019
Within the Salto KS mobile app, a user can now confirm a person’s identity via video before remotely granting access to a door. Video footage can be stored offsite in cloud back-up. Read More
July 17, 2019
dormakaba has launched a new barrier system with soft ambient lighting options, “whisper quiet” operation and integration with fire alarm systems. Read More
July 17, 2019
This eBook from HID Global kicks off a series about mobile access with topics including: technology required to enable mobile access; why smart device applications are proliferating; reasons to consider incorporating mobile devices in your access control infrastructure; and benefits mobile access can bring to your organisation. Read More
July 16, 2019
In this video Spencer Marshall, director of sales, HID Global, speaks to IFSEC TV during IFSEC International 2019, which took place at ExCeL London. Read More
July 15, 2019
Organised by the British Security Industry Association (BSIA), the awards were handed out at the London Grosvenor Marriott Hotel, Grosvenor Square, London on 10 July. Read More
July 15, 2019
Tyco, the security products division of Johnson Controls, has opened a new interactive showroom and training facility in Ireland. Located […] Read More
July 10, 2019
Video surveillance brand Avigilon spoke to IFSEC TV recently. In the interview below Paul Such, VP of EMEA sales at […] Read More