Three reasons to upgrade your access control technology
How can companies stay ahead of emerging threats to building security? Implement an access control system that is convenient, flexible and respects data privacy, says security specialist HID Global
Escalating threats to security are currently of the main things that keep company CEOs awake at night. Can developments in access control technology deliver a higher level of security?
According to a new report from HID Global, new solutions are now at hand: changing technology is providing companies with an unprecedented opportunity to drive improvements in access control, providing greater value, enhanced functionality and a higher level of security.
By moving to more advanced access control solutions, companies will be able to build a foundation for addressing unanticipated change and evolving security threats, argues the report. Organisations can thus mitigate against both present and future risk by upgrading to a more modern solution. HID Global bases its argument for an access control upgrade on three factors: security and data; user convenience; and flexibility.
Security and data privacy
Organisations increasingly are pivoting toward a ‘security-first’ mentality, putting security at the centre of every business decision. But to truly achieve this position, organisations will need to transform their access control infrastructure: make it easier to manage, more user-friendly and more secure. Modern solutions will ensure the security of personally identifiable information to stay in line with good business practices, and to safeguard compliance with emerging regulations.
Some hold to the perspective that their current access control ecosystem is ‘good enough’ because ‘we’ve not yet had a breach’, yet there is a growing understanding of the significant security risks that an outdated access control system can bring. Therefore, a modern system will not rely on any legacy technology such as barcodes or magnetic strips.
Modern access control solutions, especially mobile, are inherently more secure. When a card is lost, for example, delays in reporting the loss invite the possibility of misuse. With mobile credentials, on the other hand, it’s far easier to mitigate risk since a lost mobile phone will be reported almost immediately.
User convenience
Mobile access technology is also key to providing a high level of convenience. Phones, tablets, watches and other mobile devices offer choice and ease-of-use to end users, along with new and more convenient ways to open access points.
By 2024, there will be nearly 235 million smart wearable devices – these ‘always-on’ devices are natural candidates for access control applications. The Covid-19 pandemic has also created a heightened awareness when it comes to contaminated surfaces. People now demand touchless access controls to minimise risk of transmission and is a key motivator for upgrading systems.
Flexibility
The ability to remotely issue and revoke credentials doesn’t just support the end-user experience, it also drives added flexibility for security professionals as they seek to manage the evolving modern workplace, which may include remote and hybrid working arrangements. In this environment, security professionals can leverage the flexibility of remote credentialing to drive greater operational efficiency. Furthermore, a platform approach enables administration to be centralised into one efficient and cost-effective system.
By replacing older systems with the new technology standards, even gradually over time, security leaders can minimize the risk of a serious breach in the future, says the report. The best approach is to be proactive. Waiting for a security breach to prompt an upgrade is no longer a viable option.
Read the full HID Global report here.
