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 Happily, when an electronic access card is lost or stolen, access rights can be withdrawn immediately, rendering the card inactive.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.
June 4, 2020
Vanderbilt has introduced Facial Recognition Terminals with Temperature Detection by ZKTeco into its access control portfolio. Read More
June 3, 2020
Not all data breaches come from remote hacking attempts. Gaps in the physical security of your on-site servers may lead to the potential of critical breaches too, says Assa Abloy. Read More
June 2, 2020
Intelligent access control and intruder detection system from Inner Range, Integriti, now has a simplified licensing model, reveals the company. Read More
June 1, 2020
IFSEC and FIREX have partnered with Skills for Security to deliver an exclusive programme of digital training and career development: Training Week. Read More
May 18, 2020
Find out more about the Brivo integrated security platform, with the company having created a ‘library of video content’ for security professionals. Read More
May 15, 2020
Said to be ideal for the current situation, Paxton has added to its video entry product line by launching the Entry Standard monitor. Read More
May 4, 2020
Assa Abloy explains the benefits its CLIQ Local Manager software brings to small and medium sized businesses. Read More
May 1, 2020
2N highlights specific features of its products and solutions that can support businesses in keeping their security solutions safe for employees and customers alike. Read More
April 29, 2020
In response to the recent global pandemic, Paxton has expanded its online installer training platform and launched a series of webinars. Read More
April 27, 2020
IFSEC Global sits down with Pip Courcoux, Abloy, to find out more about the company's latest Bluetooth padlock launch and to get his thoughts on the sector as a whole. Read More