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 Happily, when an electronic access card is lost or stolen, access rights can be withdrawn immediately, rendering the card inactive.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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February 26, 2021
IFSEC’s team in South Korea offer their thoughts on the access control trends in the region to come out of 2020. Read More
February 24, 2021
The acquisition of Technology Solutions (TSL) UK will allow HID Global to expand its RFID components offering, explains the company. Read More
February 19, 2021
Plexus Fire and Security opted for the Incedo Business platform to manage its access control operation. ASSA ABLOY explains why. Read More
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How a Swedish care home's sustainability credentials are supported by the selection of wireless access control. Read More
February 11, 2021
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February 8, 2021
This free download offers security and facilities management teams top tips on how to start or adjust their ID access badge programme. Read More
February 4, 2021
Paxton is continuing to offer virtual training to installers during lockdown on its Net2 and Paxton10 access control solutions. Read More
February 2, 2021
Find out more about Dahua Technology's Virtual Innovation Centre, designed to make up for the absence of face-to-face meetings. Read More
February 2, 2021
Aperio wireless locks from ASSA ABLOY now integrate with the AEOS access control by Nedap to bring a range of business benefits, explains the companies. Read More