Access control systems are vital for ensuring the security of physical spaces and digital assets. They regulate who can enter certain areas or access specific information, helping to protect against unauthorised entry and potential security breaches.
There are various types of access control systems, but two of the most common are Physical Access Control and Logical Access Control. In this blog, we’ll explore what these types are and what they include.
1. Physical Access Control
Physical access control systems are designed to restrict entry to physical spaces such as buildings, rooms, or secure areas within a facility. These systems utilise different mechanisms to authenticate individuals and grant or deny access based on predefined criteria.
Keycard Systems
One of the most common physical access control methods is keycard systems. Employees are issued with electronic keycards that contain encoded data unique to each individual.
When presenting the keycard to a card reader at the access point, the system verifies the credentials and grants access if authorised.
To take a more innovative approach to security, HID mobile access, offered by Digital ID, can be used. Rather than needing a physical card which may get lost, individuals will be able to use their mobile phone for access.
Biometric Access Control
Biometric access control systems use unique physiological characteristics such as fingerprints, facial features, or iris patterns to authenticate individuals. Biometric data is captured and stored securely, and individuals must present their biometric traits to a reader for verification.
Biometric access control offers high levels of security and eliminates the need for physical credentials like keycards or PINs.
Security Guards
In addition to technological solutions, security guards play an important role in physical access control. They monitor access points, verify credentials, and intervene in security breaches or suspicious activities.
Security guards provide a human element to access control, offering a visible deterrent to potential intruders and responding promptly to security incidents.
2. Logical Access Control
While physical access control systems regulate entry to physical spaces, logical access control systems govern access to digital assets such as computer networks, databases, and sensitive information stored electronically.
These systems authenticate users and control their access to digital resources based on their credentials and permissions.
Usernames and Passwords
One of the simplest forms of logical access control is the use of usernames and passwords. Users must enter their unique username and password combination to access computer systems, applications, or online accounts.
Strong password policies, such as requiring a minimum length and complexity, help enhance security and prevent unauthorised access.
Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
Multi-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security by requiring users to provide multiple forms of verification before granting access.
This typically involves combining something the user knows (e.g., a password) with something they have (e.g., a mobile device for receiving a one-time code) or something they are (e.g., biometric authentication).
MFA significantly reduces the risk of unauthorised access, even if passwords are compromised.
Role-Based Access Control (RBAC)
Role-based access control assigns permissions to users based on their roles within an organisation. Each user is assigned a specific role with corresponding access rights, which dictate what resources they can access and what actions they can perform.
RBAC simplifies access management by aligning permissions with job responsibilities and reducing the risk of granting excessive privileges.
Find and Utilise the Most Suited Access Control for You
Access control systems are essential for maintaining security and controlling access to physical and digital resources. Physical access control systems regulate entry to physical spaces using mechanisms such as keycard systems, biometric authentication, and security guards.
Logical access control systems govern access to digital assets through methods like usernames and passwords, multi-factor authentication, and role-based access control.
By implementing appropriate access control measures, organisations can protect against unauthorised entry, mitigate security risks, and safeguard valuable assets effectively.
