Access Control Systems [Features, Benefits & Challenges]

Access control systems (ACS), projected to hit $14.9 billion by 2028, lead today’s security game. Offering remote management, versatile authorization methods, and stable availability, they drive adoption among companies worldwide.

Want to explore the relevant features of access control systems in 2023? The team of WebbyLab, which created the IoT-based access control and management solution Propuskator, will share the top 10 next-generation functionalities.

Our team delivered cutting-edge Propuskator tools like remote control through the cloud and access permission via physical tags, license plates, biometric data, QR codes, and more. We know how to make a difference in your assets’ safety. Benefit from our solution’s minimal downtime and convenient installation. Discover the essential features of your product in this post.

Top 10 Modern Access Control System Features

1. Multiple User Authentication Methods

Implementing two-factor auth features is the latest trend in automated access control systems (as well as wearable IoT devices). Yet, it’s crucial to have multiple user authentication methods in 2023. They will provide an advanced level of security, greater flexibility, and convenience for the users. Here are some modern authentication options you can choose from: 

• QR codes
• Bluetooth
• UHF RFID readers
• Built-in HomeLink technology (in modern cars)
• Vehicle license plate numbers
• NFC tags
• Bank cards
• Remote access via mobile apps or web interfaces
• Apple Pay/Google Pay on a smartphone or watch
• Phone calls
• Remote controls
• Biometric access features (fingerprint, iris, palm, facial recognition)
• Integration with other services and applications: Google Assistant, Siri, Alexa, and IFTTT

Note that physical identifiers like key fobs and cards are becoming outdated. They are nice to have as backup, but the best user authentication methods involve wireless technologies.

The more authentication options there are, the more efficient and modern the access control system is. This way, it’ll cover the needs of any user and deliver top-notch security.

2. Cloud-Based Management

The modern capabilities of access control systems must include cloud-based management. It allows you to supervise physical spaces remotely through a web browser or mobile app.

The core benefits of cloud access systems include:

• Effortless access management from anywhere in the world
• Data encryption, real-time alerts, system reporting, and automatic software updates for high-level security
• Increased scalability without expensive hardware upgrades

Peering into the future, cloud-based access control management systems will extensively leverage AI and IoT technologies, along with predictive analytics.

Our team at WebbyLab has already deployed cloud management features in our IoT-enabled Propuskator project so users can control access to their facilities through a mobile app. Our ACS also supports video surveillance, customizable access control functionality, various system integrations, and installation on local and cloud private servers, making it an all-in-one solution for companies looking to protect their properties.

 Using the 2Smart Cloud mobile app in an access control and management project.

3. Mobile Access Control

Mobile access control solutions is one of the top access control system features that enable users to access a physical space using their mobile device instead of a conventional key fob or access card. Such access systems leverage Internet, Bluetooth, or NFC technologies to verify users’ identities to subsequently open doors, gates, or other barriers.

The benefits of implementing mobile access as one of the access control system functionalities are:

• Convenience. Users no longer need to carry traditional access cards or keys, which can be easily lost or forgotten
• Improved security. Users’ identities are verified using biometric sensors, such as fingerprint or facial recognition
• Flexibility. Users can grant or revoke access remotely

Not all mobile devices may be compatible with your access control system. But you can fix this by installing a universal controller.

4. Universal Controller

An access control system must manage numerous objects like:

• Locks
• Gates
• Barriers
• Turnstiles
• Elevators
• Bollards

It must also handle even more identification devices: 

• RFID and NFC tag readers
• License plate readers or cameras
• Biometric readers
• QR code readers
• And many more

Thus, a universal controller is one of the most critical features of access control systems. It should successfully handle various IoT devices and solve compatibility and access issues. A universal controller is also helpful in many connection scenarios and software configurations. 

Read also: Smart Grain Elevator Solutions: How to Automate Grain Elevator?

So, to perform well, such a controller must meet the following specifications:

• Universal reader support
• Universal support for controlling devices
• Universal support for exit buttons, security systems, anti-fire systems, guard buttons, etc.
• Different methods of cloud connection, including Wi-Fi, Ethernet, GSM, Modbus
• Backup control methods like local admin panel, Bluetooth, etc.
• External sensors of opening, passage, etc.

WebbyLab’s custom developed controller for the Propuskator project complies with all the characteristics mentioned above.

A microcontroller for the Propuskator access control and management system.

5. Artificial Intelligence in Access Control Systems

Incorporating AI into access control systems is a highly effective feature of next-generation access control. It uses advanced algorithms to identify potential security threats and anomalies. AI-powered access helps analyze data from various sources, like biometric sensors, video surveillance integrations, or access logs. 

AI in secure access control systems comes with:

• Increased accuracy. AI algorithms analyze vast amounts of data quickly
• Enhanced security. AI-powered systems recognize faces, voices, and behavioral patterns, making it difficult for unauthorized individuals to gain access
• Improved user experience. AI-powered access control systems can enable personalized voice recognition or touchless access features

Implementing custom AI-powered solutions in access control systems can be expensive. But organizations can access AI features through Siri, Alexa, and GPS navigation devices.

6. System Integrations

System integrations combine various technologies, APIs, and systems in your access management software. Those may include IoT home automation solutions, intrusion detection, or fire alarms to create a more comprehensive and effective security solution.

Speaking of the APIs, the more open the platform, the better. The applied programming interface should receive data and fill the system with it quickly and effortlessly.

Another critical integration for the ACS is customer relationship management (CRM) systems. They are often necessary to obtain user data for creating client invoices or calculating employee salaries.

The benefits of having various system integrations include:

• Better security. Various systems will handle your physical assets
• Improved efficiency. System integrations reduce the need for manual intervention
• Enhanced data analysis. You collect information from several sources 

Before integrating various systems into your access control solution, consider potential limitations, such as complexity and maintenance requirements.

7. Visitor Management Functionalities

Visitor management system is another top access control system feature that manages the flow of people going into and out of a building or premises. It tracks and verifies the identity of visitors and monitors their movements on site.

Being one of the features of access control system, a visitor management system can provide:

• Enhanced security, streamlined visitor registrations and check-ins. The system ensures that only authorized visitors access the premises
• Better data analysis. The system provides data on people visiting your premises

This functionality might not be easy to set up. But with proper experts, you can use it to the fullest potential.

8. Customizable Access Control Features

Customizable access control features tailor ACS to the specific requirements of the facility. They allow the controller to alter access levels, permissions, and form user groups so people can access the right areas at the right times.

A good example of this is guest access. The residents of the building can grant permission to their guests through temporary QR codes, mobile apps, etc. 

There are numerous advantages to having access control systems with customized features, such as:

• Greater control. Organizations can adjust access permissions
• Improved flexibility. Users can select the access control features they require
• Enhanced convenience. Organizations tailor the ACS to their specific needs

Yet, customizability sometimes comes with complexity. Users may encounter high setup costs and time-consuming system maintenance. So, consider these limitations before implementing custom functionalities.

9. Multi-Site Access Control Solutions

One of the other must-have features of access control systems is multi-site access. It helps to manage access to multiple areas from a single platform.

The primary benefits of multi-site access control solutions include:

• Centralized management. Organizations supervise their assets from one place
• Saved time and reduced administrative costs. Users can streamline access control processes across multiple sites

Our ACS enables supervising various locations through a mobile app. See what it looks like:

Managing access to multiple sites through the user mobile app.

10. Video Intercom and Video Surveillance

Building security usually uses a video intercom to verify someone’s identity before letting them into the secured area. But video surveillance allows for a more comprehensive approach to safety.

Video surveillance will be helpful for users who open the door to their guests as well as for ACS administrators who monitor the situation at the facility. Other features include the automatic footage or pictures saving to resolve conflict situations or breaches.

You can expect several benefits from these access control features, including:

• Improved security. The video surveillance system provides 24/7 monitoring
• Increased accountability. You can use video footage to verify who and when entered and exited the area

These are the most critical features of access control systems. Yet, you may want to include some extra ones to enhance a security solution even more. For example, consider private server support or see if the ACS offers maximum autonomy for the user.

Benefits of Access Control Systems

Let’s explore the importance of access control in security and discuss the benefits such solutions bring. Here are the main advantages:

• Remote management, real-time monitoring, and access log control. The ACS offers enhanced convenience. With its help, you can update the configurations remotely. Also, it’s possible to track all changes, updates, and settings in real time and get notifications and alerts about various events from the admin panel. Besides, the ACS contributes to security, enabling you to analyze personalized user events and collect statistics.
• Various access methods. Other benefits of automated access control systems include multiple entry methods. Users can leverage NFC, Bluetooth, mobile apps, phone calls, messenger bots, voice control, third-party services, car license plates, QR codes, and biometric data. They may even want to give up old-school access methods like physical cards and tags.
• Personalized settings. In ACS, users control who, when, and which areas are accessible in their locations. They can also decide on the access methods and schedules.
• Reduced need for service personnel. Businesses significantly cut service costs thanks to control panels, remote monitoring, desktop readers for tag registration, and other advanced ACS features. Ultimately, companies reduce human error as access solutions are stably available and work consistently.
• Streamlined communication and user independence. System administrators and end users can communicate through the ACS without meeting in person. On top of that, it enables registering new tags, adding guests, and accessing the desired locations.

Challenges of Automated Access Control Systems

Despite the numerous advantages, ACSs come with certain limitations. Let’s look at the main challenges of automated access control system:

• Offline mode. Making your system stably available offline is a challenging venture. Yet, it’s possible to set up such an ACS and grant access even when your solution isn’t connected to the Internet.
• Automatic scaling. As your company and its security requirements grow, scaling your system becomes more complex. You’ll need to consider compatibility aspects when introducing new access points.
• Various working conditions. Some systems require Wi-Fi, Ethernet, cellular, and wired connections. In turn, others need only a few specific options. It’s necessary to cover different use cases before implementing the ACS.
• Integrations. Integrating third-party tools like CRM systems, video surveillance, security measures, and other services is often complicated. Therefore, such solutions require additional expertise.
• User management. Accurate billing within the ACS relies on controlling the number of users. Ensuring separate accounts for each user rather than shared ones is also essential.

Enhance Your Access Control System with WebbyLab

Numerous next-generation access control system features are here to help with advanced security for physical sites. These include cloud-based management, mobile access control, AI integration, customizable functionalities, and the others we’ve just covered.

We hope that our guide has assisted you in figuring out the essential capabilities your ACS should have. If you want to improve your physical security measures with a top-notch access control system, WebbyLab’s team is ready to tackle that task. We can deliver a custom ACS following your requirements or enhance your existing solution. So, feel free to contact us  and discuss your project in detail.