Security access cards have changed the game, bringing in new technology. Industry giants like HID Global and Kisi offer these electronic keys. They let people in or keep unwanted visitors out. Modern keycards work with RFID/NFC tech. This tech communicates on low-frequency (125 kHz to 134 kHz) and high-frequency (13.56 MHz) levels. This ensures strong electronic access management.
These cards are made to work with proximity readers. They read codes and only let in those recognized. It’s how they manage who gets in and who doesn’t.
The perks of keycards are more than just upping security. They make things easier and keep business access smooth. With cloud-based systems, managing security becomes simpler and can grow with your business. And unlike old swipe cards, these don’t wear out as fast. This makes them a smart choice for many security needs.
Even small businesses find value in these cards. They’re a budget-friendly way to control who gets in. Plus, there’s room on these cards for a company logo or design. It’s a great way to show off your brand while keeping your place secure.
What Is an Access Card
An access card is a security credential. It allows or denies entry to secured areas. Like keys, it uses embedded data read by a card reader. Based on this data, access is granted or denied.
Today, we use different kinds of access cards. They include magnetic stripe, proximity, and RFID/NFC cards. A keycard talks to readers through magnetic fields, NFC, or Bluetooth. This makes access control secure and fast.
The Department of Defense’s Common Access Card (CAC) is a prime example. It’s for active duty members, Selected Reserve, and some contractors. The CAC provides entry to buildings and access to DoD networks and systems.
Access cards are also common in civilian life. For example, the Pennsylvania EBT ACCESS Card is for benefits like SNAP and Medical Assistance. It works with a four-digit PIN. A fee is charged for replacing a lost or stolen card.
The tech behind access cards is advancing. NFC, introduced in 2003, secures data better during transmission. Now, banks and cities use NFC in various systems for safety and convenience. Companies like Kisi are making systems that use NFC bank or transit cards for access.
The shift to using an access control token like an access card is a big step. It leads to safer, more efficient ways to control entry into secure places.
Types of Access Cards
There are many kinds of access cards, each with unique tech for secure access and data handling. We will look at RFID/NFC cards, Magnetic Stripe cards, Smart Cards, and Proximity Cards. We’ll explore their main features and advantages.
RFID/NFC Cards
RFID and NFC cards are top picks today because they don’t require contact. By 2023, these cards became extremely popular for access control. They can hold up to 100 times more data than old magnetic stripe cards.
These cards work at different frequencies: either 125 kHz or 13.56 MHz. The high-frequency ones offer top security by encrypting data transfer. They’re great for access control, paying, and as ID badges.
Magnetic Stripe Cards
Magnetic stripe cards, or magstripe cards, have been used for a long time. They come as Low-Coercivity (LoCo) or High-Coercivity (HiCo) cards. HiCo cards are used for important things like credit cards because they last longer.
Even though they’re widely used, magstripe cards have their downsides. They hold less data and can wear out, making them less secure. Still, they’re common in the hotel industry and some business sectors.
Smart Cards
Smart cards contain chips for storing data safely. They use NFC at 13.56 MHz for secure data transactions. This makes them good for access control and contactless payments.
These cards can also store and change data, offering more advanced data management. Due to their ability to handle complex security, smart cards are best for highly secure settings.
Proximity Cards
Prox cards work with RFID at a low frequency of 125kHz for contactless communication. These cards don’t need to touch the reader, making access easy in office buildings.
There are different prox cards, including ones made of PVC, others that are more durable because they mix PVC and polyester, and sturdy Clamshell Prox Cards. There are also Prox Card Key Fobs and Adhesive Tags for turning objects into access tools.
Organizations can select from various prox card options based on their needs for card quantities. This ensures solutions that can grow with them.
How Key Card Systems Work
Key card systems are key parts of today’s security plans. They use electronic access control for safe, easy building entry. Each user gets a keycard or fob with special digital info. Show your keycard to keycard readers, and it sends data to a control database. This checks if you can enter.
EPS Security offers proximity card readers that work with different frequencies. They’re designed to easily adjust as staff or access needs change. Brands like Assa Abloy and Allegion Schlage have created smart locks. These locks work wirelessly, adding more convenience.
Each keycard has a unique code for better security. This system is great for big offices or school buildings. Electronic access control teams manage many places. They update user details for thousands each month. HID proximity cards can become ID badges. This makes them easy to carry and keeps entry secure.
These systems make it simpler by reducing the keys a person carries. They can also track when people come and go. This helps find security issues. It also tracks work attendance and manages visitors.
Key card systems use RFID tech for higher security, setting different access levels. Badge systems often add extra security with Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA). This could mean PINs or fingerprint scans are needed too.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Keycard Entry Systems
Keycard entry systems are now a top choice for keeping places like offices and gyms safe. They bring a lot of access control advantages but also have some downsides. Knowing these can help you decide if they’re right for your security needs.
Advantages
Security benefits of keycard systems are big. They stop unauthorized access and reduce theft and damage. This saves money for businesses. They also allow different access levels for different areas. Plus, they enable monitoring of who enters and when, improving security.
Keycard systems are also flexible. They let employees use one card for many doors, making moving around easier. If a card gets lost or stolen, it’s easy to turn it off. This means there’s no need to change locks or worry about key copies. Adding smart tech makes these systems even more flexible and secure.
Disadvantages
Even with many access control advantages, keycard systems have electronic keycard limitations. One big problem is they can be copied if the tech isn’t strong enough. Cards often wear out and need replacing, which can take time. Also, losing a card can still pose a security risk if not handled quickly.
Costs are another thing to think about. Upfront, key card systems might seem cheaper than cloud-based ones. However, ongoing maintenance and updating cards can add up. Regular safety checks are needed too, requiring time and resources.
So, keycard entry systems have major security benefits and make managing access easier. Yet, it’s important to understand the possible electronic keycard limitations. Then you can choose the best system for your organization’s safety needs.
Alternatives to Keycard Entry Systems
Many options have replaced traditional keycard systems for better security and ease. These new methods overcome the drawbacks of keycards. They provide improved access control with their advanced features.
Mobile Credentials
Now, smartphones can open doors using Bluetooth or NFC. This brings not just ease but also fits perfectly with our digital lives. It’s a hands-free way to enter, cutting down on germs.
Biometrics
Biometrics make use of what makes each of us unique, like fingerprints or facial patterns. These methods are tough to beat in security, blocking unwanted entries. It’s a top choice for areas needing tight security because it’s hard to copy someone’s biometric data.
Keypads
Keypads are an affordable choice, using PIN codes for entry. However, they can be less secure if people share or don’t change their PINs often. They work well for less critical security spots inside a facility.
QR Codes
QR codes introduce a new way to manage who comes and goes. They can be set for certain times or events, perfect for welcoming guests. By scanning a code with a phone, entry is touchless, making things safer and more efficient for everyone involved.
How To Ensure Access Card Security
Keeping your access card system safe is crucial, especially in places like corporate offices, government buildings, and medical clinics. To stop unauthorized people and safeguard important information, you need strong security for your access cards. Here’s what you can do:
- Two-Factor Authentication: Boost security by making users provide a PIN or password and their access card. This step greatly lowers the chances of someone breaking in.
- Advanced Encryption Protocols: Use the latest encryption technologies to protect data sent from the card to the reader. For instance, MIFARE DESFire cards ensure secure messages with their high-tech encryption.
- Regular Security Audits: Check your access control system often to find and fix weaknesses. This means watching out for copied cards and other security issues.
To make a strong security plan, mix physical safeguards with digital ones like two-factor authentication and tough encryption. Also, choosing systems that let you adjust security, like DAC, MAC, or RBAC, helps meet your specific needs.
Adopting advanced tech like RFID and NFC can make your access card system more secure and flexible. But, it’s important to keep up with new security trends to shield your place from new dangers. By carefully applying these security steps, your organization will be much safer.
Choosing the Right Access Card System
Choosing the right access card system starts with understanding your security needs. We will look closely at your needs and the solutions available. This ensures you make a knowledgeable choice.
Assessing Your Needs
First, identify your organization’s specific security needs. Think about the number of entry points, which areas need more security, and the roles of users. This analysis should consider:
- The size and layout of your facility
- The number of employees and visitors
- How sensitive different areas are
- How well it works with systems you already have
- If it can grow and change with new tech
An in-depth assessment helps you understand what system is needed. It could be standalone, networked, or cloud-based.
Comparing Solutions
After assessing your needs, compare solutions. Look at features, technology, and support from companies like Genea and Kisi. Think about:
- How they handle data storage and processing
- Their ability to automate for fewer mistakes and more security
- If you can manage and monitor them remotely
- How well they work with other security setups
- Their cost-effectiveness and how they can save you money on keys
Companies like Genea and Kisi provide leading cloud-based solutions. These offer flexibility and control in many places.
By comparing solutions based on your needs, you can find a system. It will give you strong security, be efficient, and grow with you.
Conclusion
Access card systems are now a crucial part of keeping places safe. They offer cool features like storing data and being customizable. These systems, including smart cards and key fobs, meet different needs for every organization. With the right keycard system, companies can boost their security and make things run smoother.
Choosing secure systems is key. It helps to work with experts like SoCal Access and Video. They make sure your security is top-notch. By working with pros, your system fits your needs perfectly. This reduces risks and makes operations better.
As security demands grow, access card systems and new tech like mobile credentials are essential. Investing in these modern controls ups security, adds convenience, and keeps businesses flexible. By adopting these new technologies, companies can protect against threats and run steadily and safely.
