Access control technology is changing, and older systems are being replaced with newer, more accessible systems. More people are looking for all-in-one solutions that incorporate video, audio, and analytics. These new integrated solutions are becoming increasingly feasible thanks to advancements in system architecture, mobile technology, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity. Here are the four biggest trends in access control that security leaders should pay attention to and the opportunities they present.
System Architecture
How are cloud and hybrid technologies being applied to access control? What are the advantages and disadvantages of each?
Before we discuss the pros and cons, it is important to note that access control is the fastest adopter of cloud technology in the security industry because access control only deals with transactional data and is therefore more comfortable testing cloud capabilities than video, which requires larger storage capacity and has greater privacy concerns.
In terms of pros and cons, cloud solutions have the advantage of always having access to the latest software features without the need for on-site physical servers. This relieves system administrators of the burden of frequently updating or maintaining hardware. However, cloud technology has not yet been widely adopted by enterprise systems, which often prefer the higher degree of control that on-premise servers offer. Additionally, cloud solutions may be less effective in remote or bandwidth-constrained areas.
Hybrid solutions offer a cost-effective approach to extending legacy systems to the cloud while protecting your initial investment in existing hardware. They are also useful for adding new sites without incurring expenses on additional hardware. Despite their advantages, hybrid systems can be complex to integrate, and it is important to ensure that they meet all your requirements. With a hybrid solution, the user interface may not be as robust as a traditional on-premise system, and some functionality may be limited.
Mobile First Technology
Are access control solutions moving towards mobile technology? If so, why and what opportunities and challenges does this bring?
Access control is experiencing a shift to mobile technology for two reasons: it’s cost-effective for organizations and easy for users. Additionally, this shift makes temporary authentication more efficient, as QR codes and Bluetooth credentials can be sent directly to a visitor or contractor’s phone or email. These credentials can be set for an allotted time, providing more control and improving security. Finally, mobile authentication can be used with many different types of systems: on-premise, hybrid, and cloud. This shift to mobile, referred to as mobile first, is a design approach that leverages mobile devices as user credentials, rather than key cards or key fobs.
With the move to mobile authentication, there is still a potential risk of credential sharing; however, this is not unique to this type of solution and is something that a good system can address. Another potential challenge is that some cardholders may not want to store work-related applications or credentials on their personal devices; however, this is easily solved by having a reader that can issue card credentials and handle multiple types of credentials.
Mobile technology offers great possibilities for system management and is growing in popularity, allowing authorized users to easily add and remove users, assign visitor access, receive alerts and notifications, and even remotely control doors from their mobile devices.
AI and Analytics
How is AI and analytics being applied to access control? What are the potential use cases and how can it improve safety?
While access control is one of the key areas of security adopting cloud technology, video is leading the way with AI and analytics. This does not mean that AI and analytics are not being used in access control, but rather that they are slowly being adopted in conjunction with video and audio to create a more secure environment.
For example, combining video with access control can help users determine instances of tailgating or piggybacking (when an unauthorized person follows an authorized person into a secure premises), which is always a vulnerability. It can also be used to monitor access to areas where PPE (personal protective equipment) is required, restricting entry to those not wearing the proper gear. Access control analytics can also help monitor and manage instances of occupancy restrictions. The possibilities are endless, but as with any AI or analytics, the biggest challenge is a properly trained model.
Cybersecurity
Are there any cyber risks specific to access control, and if so, how can they be mitigated?
Cybersecurity risks in access control are not unique, and many of the best practices that security leaders apply to other areas can and should be applied. For example, knowing who has access to what spaces and using multi-factor authentication (MFA) are both important steps to protecting credentials and access to an organization’s spaces. Similarly, it’s important that both devices and communications on the network are encrypted. Security leaders should consider things like security keys, standards like OSDP and TPM modules, and more to ensure every aspect is secure, from door readers to servers.
Traditional access control systems are being replaced by new all-in-one systems designed to automate and integrate the entire system experience for end users. From architectural changes to mobile designs, increased use of AI and analytics, and growing demands for cybersecurity, access control will continue to evolve along with the rest of the security industry. It’s important to keep up with the latest developments while staying focused on what your organization needs from its systems.
