What Is the Difference Between Door Entry Systems and Access Control?

Physical security is one of the most important aspects of any business.

And one of the most fundamental elements of physical security is door entry systems and access control systems, which allow you to monitor and control who comes in and out of your facility and other areas throughout the premises.

Not only does this protect your critical business assets, but it also keeps you and your staff safe from outside threats.

However, if you search for “access control system” or “door entry system”, you might not be able to tell the difference between the two.

While they often work in tandem, there are some slight but key differences between them that you should understand before you purchase a door security system to implement in your facility.

In this article, we’ll explore the differences between the two so you can make an informed decision about what will work best for your business when looking for commercial door entry systems.

Access Control Systems Explained

“Access control” is an all-encompassing term that refers to any security system that identifies personnel and then authenticates their credentials to determine whether the person will be allowed access.

There are many types of credentials that can be used to identify the user. Here are the four most common:

Radio Frequency Identification (RFID)

You’re likely the most familiar with this type of credential, as it’s the most common and cost-effective method used by most facilities.

Typically, there’s a small circuit chip embedded into a card, key fob, or some other type of item the user keeps on their person. Using radio signals, the person can place the item on a reader to gain access to the restricted area. However, there are a few drawbacks – the two major ones being that these can be easily cloned or lost.

PIN Code Systems

Another popular method is simply giving personnel a PIN they can punch into a keypad to gain access to the facility or other areas. While it’s simple, it does have the drawback that anyone who knows the secret number can access the building, which can be mitigated by regularly changing the code.

Biometric Systems

As technology has grown over the years, a more secure form of credentialing has come on the scene and that is making use of biometrics. These devices can scan either fingerprint, palm print, or the eye retina to allow access into the area. And today, there is full facial scanning available as well.

Smartphone Credentials

Finally, there are mobile credentials that have seen an explosion in use over recent years. They allow you to easily distribute credentials to your personnel, typically using an app.

Plus, they can also be used in conjunction with any of the other types of credentials mentioned above, giving you an extra level of security by using multi-factor authentication methods.

Door Entry Systems Explained

Door entry systems are the physical component of security such as the door locks, turnstiles, or other systems that accept or deny the person after the credentials are validated or rejected. For example, if a person has their key fob and waves it over the keypad, then the electronic lock will disengage and allow the person in.

There are several door entry systems available. Here are some of the most common:

Video Door Entry Systems

Video door entry systems allow you to see who the person is before letting them into the building or office area. They add an extra level of security because they can also record and stream video that can be used later if something happens on the premises.

Audio Door Entry Systems

Using an intercom, personnel can speak with the person without them ever stepping inside of the building. And as with video entry systems, the audio can also be recorded and saved for future use if needed.

Keypad Door Entry Systems

As mentioned above, users and staff can use a code entered into the keypad to gain access to the facility.

Keyless Door Entry Systems

Using the key fob, card, or another RFID device, all authorised personnel can enter the premises simply by waving their item over the reader device.

Ready to Install or Upgrade Your Access Control and Door Entry System?

Here at ICT Solutions, we can design, fit, and install a custom door entry system that will keep your premises safe and secure.

Whether you’re looking for a door entry phone system, a wireless video solution, or even a hands-free intercom, we can supply you with a system that’s tailored to your business’ needs.

Get in touch with us today, and we’ll help you decide which system is best for your business!