7 Access Control Mistakes You Should Avoid
Published on : April 1, 2022
What are common access control mistakes?
- Inappropriate access levels
- Poor password management
- Locking hardware in poor condition
- No user database maintenance
- Ignoring alerts or notifications
- Using door props
- Installing outdated technology
When investing in your building’s security systems, an access control system is one of the most popular and most recommended upgrades to get. But, as beneficial as this system may be for your building, it can be complex to install and maintain.
It has many components — such as scanners, buttons, alarms, and the like — to facilitate the entry or exit of potentially hundreds of users daily. Many issues could arise due to the high volume of moving parts. Here are a few of the most common access control mistakes you can commit, and how ELID can help you avoid them.
Inappropriate Access Levels
One of the common mistakes that building owners make with their new access control system is assigning inappropriate access levels to users. System administrators should be discerning on who should have access to which areas — particularly sensitive ones.
The rule of thumb is to only give access to team members whose jobs absolutely require them to enter these areas. Designating employee-only areas will also help keep visitors out of places they should not be in. When someone quits or is fired, the administrator should also immediately revoke their access rights from all systems.
Poor Password Management
It’s common for administrators to set the same, memorable password for the access control system across all terminals or apps. Likewise, users may also use the same password for all their accounts or apps. This makes it easier to remember, but it also makes your system vulnerable to breaches.
Make sure to brief your team on the dangers of using an easy-to-remember password, or using the same password on multiple platforms. Encourage them to create strong and unique passwords for each app or terminal, and remind them to update them regularly. If they have a hard time remembering different passwords, suggest password keeper apps they could use.
Locking Hardware In Poor Condition
The first line of defense in access control systems is the hardware and doors. Like any other piece of equipment, these need periodic inspection, maintenance, and adjustments in order to operate in top condition.
A common mistake is letting these items fall into disrepair. Over time, your hardware and doors may not completely close or latch properly, or have issues that weaken locks. This creates a security threat, as intruders can use these gaps in the system to force themselves inside sensitive areas.
No User Database Maintenance
Another element of an access control system that is often neglected is the user database. Without proper maintenance, your access levels and user list likely become a mess.
Administrators need to frequently check and update this database to ensure proper access to the building. This promotes good data collection, prevents lost credentials, and reduces the risk of trespassing. This also ensures that you can quickly and accurately respond to credential or access issues when they arise.
Ignoring Alerts Or Notifications
Access control systems use a number of alarms and notifications to update administrators on possible issues. For example, there are door “hold open” alarms, anti-passback alarms, and a whole host of notifications whenever different areas are accessed. The problem with the constant pings your system gets every day is that they can start to sound like white noise — even to experienced administrators.
While most alarms and notifications do not mean there is a major security breach, they are important signs of how your system is performing. Administrators must always pay attention to these things, as well as their frequency. Doing so may uncover unlogged problems in the system, and prevent a major incident.
Using Door Props
This mistake is made when users become tired of frequently passing through locked doors and going through the motions of using the access control system. The common solution is to use items to prop these doors open.
While keeping the door open may be more convenient for users, it prevents your access system from fulfilling its purpose — keeping unauthorized users from places they should not be in.
Installing Outdated Technology
In this day and age, there are many advances in access control — that being said, there are plenty of systems on the market that still use outdated tech. These old-school systems are limited in what they can do and come with more risks than benefits. Thus, they are likely to cost you more in the long run.
The best thing to do for your building is to find newer systems that are more likely future-proof and longer-lasting. Leading developers, like ELID, are adding features like smart automatic gates, AI anti-tailgating measures, lift access, and much more to their systems. Such additions make investments more cost-effective, and keep your building running smoothly and safely.
Key Takeaway
Adding an access control system to your building is not just about implementing it — it’s also about knowing the common access control mistakes to avoid, and knowing how to properly use your system.
To ensure you and your building get only the best security, contact ELID today. We can help you choose the best access control system for your needs, and ensure proper use and installation.