The security systems in your office might be outdated or no longer fit for purpose. People trying to access what you have will have gained a roster of ways to get in and will implement them. Today’s technology has made building security far safer and easier to use, with perks most people hadn’t dreamed of. Read on for our take on why you need to upgrade your security with smart technology.
Perks of a keyless building
The problem with traditional means of security is that they allow for a lot more room for human error. A keyless security system can avoid most of that, by keeping access down to who you are rather than who has the key or the door code.
Traditional keys will often go missing, can be copied easily and are not foolproof. Whereas, keyless and smart card entry systems require giving every user a unique identifier that will allow access to the building, bypassing the possibility of keys being copied or locks being picked.
A smart card much like an HID card will identify you by the unique code in the card, allowing you access only to what you are permitted to. Usually, staff information is all stored and backed up to a cloud or on premise server with the access card linked to this information. This access can be tailored to the role of the staff member, for example, an ID card may be programmed to allow access to the warehouse, but not the till. It can also be updated in real time, so that if a staff member is promoted your card can be updated to allow access to new areas, such as those only accessible by management.
Your employer can also control and track where and when your access is used. If you enter a room, the fact that you went in, when and for how long will all be stored and backed up in the access management software. So if, for example something goes missing in the warehouse, you can prove you were not the last one in there when it went missing.
Computer and application access
Smart cards are quickly becoming the preferred way to access computers, applications and data, due to their high security, coded into the card with end-to-end encryption.
Many organizations are now using smart cards as a way to add an additional layer of security to employees accessing computers, networks and software. Rather than allowing access to whoever has the password, the card would also need to be presented and therefore recognized as someone who is or isn’t permitted access to the data.
This is helpful as passwords can be shared or scribbled down in a notebook to be picked up by someone who is not permitted to use them. Passwords are also more open to being compromised by viruses or a hacker, when compared to using a two-factor solution, using smart cards. This can mean huge losses to your organization as well as lengthily investigations and remedial work required by your IT department.
A smart card will act as a form of identification and will allow access only to what you are permitted to access according to the users role in the company, as set up by the network administrator. So for example, someone who isn’t an accountant will not be permitted to access the finances.
