Common Myths About Access Control Debunked

Common Myths About Access Control Debunked

by Mike Boehm on September 05, 2024

As access control systems become more popular and well-known, so do common misconceptions about them. This article will delve into five common myths surrounding access control systems.

Myth #1: Access Control and Large Businesses

A common misconception about access control systems is that they can only be utilized in large business organizations. Additionally, people believe they need to have a certain number of employees or that these systems cannot be installed in their own homes.

All of the above is false. While access control certainly has a more significant impact on larger organizations, that does not mean it cannot be used in small businesses or even in your own home. In fact, implementing an access control system in a smaller organization should be preferred, as it can save on facility overhead through a low-cost security system. Access control tags and cards are reasonably priced and easily integrated into any business. These tags can be utilized in small businesses to prevent theft, track employee behavior, and monitor inventory.

Additionally, access control systems can be employed in your own home. Access control tags can be used to access your front door, garage, or storage shed out back. Regardless of where you would like the system installed, it can generally be applied anywhere at a low cost.

Myth #2: Access Control Systems are Easily Hacked

Another common misconception about access control systems is that they are easily hacked. Like most systems and devices, they are vulnerable if not well maintained. However, with proper maintenance and good access control hygiene, this need not be a concern. Good access control hygiene entails frequent updates, security audits, access control tag updates, and more. With proper maintenance, your organization does not need to worry about the threat of hacks anymore than you already do.

Myth #3: There is Only One Way to Use Access Control Systems

While many people may believe that access control systems are a one-size-fits-all product, that statement is grossly inaccurate. In fact, the main attraction of access control systems is their customizability to your business needs. Each organization can decide what to include in their access control system. There is a wide variety of physical customizations available, such as access control tags, proximity cards, key fobs, cameras, door alarms, window sensors, entry card readers, and more. Your access control setup can be tailored precisely to your business requirements, whether you need it for time cards, inventory, security access, data protection, or more.

Moreover, access control systems can perfectly fit your management tiers and current business access levels. Through the use of access control tags, each employee can have their own access levels throughout your business. In conclusion, the statement that access control systems are one-size-fits-all is a wild misconception, as access control systems are customizable to your business needs.

Myth #4: Access Control Systems are Expensive

People tend to think that access control systems are extremely expensive and, therefore, do not want to invest large amounts of money for what seems like a small return. This concept is most commonly associated with smaller businesses, as they may not have a large reserve of funds to invest in an all-inclusive access control system. However, this is a myth.

Access control systems are actually quite cost-effective, especially considering that you can include as much or as little as you need for your business. Costs can vary significantly based on individual business needs, with an average range of $500 to $3,000 per door. If you are a small business owner with two doors, you could possibly spend around $1,000 to enhance your security and protect your assets. In hindsight, if you still utilize a key and lock system at your business each time there is a security breach or an employee is terminated the locks need to be changed. If you change the locks three times a year while making key copies each time you are dropping about the same amount as you would with an access control system. Access control tags can be used as keys into your facility and  are very inexpensive ranging from fifty cents to a dollar.

Myth #5: Access Control Systems are Hard to Install

The last myth this article will address is that access control systems are difficult to install. The short answer is yes, if you do not know what you are doing. However, there are many guides available on the internet, as well as experienced vendors who can easily install an access control system in less than a week. Some businesses even provide over-the-phone tech support to ensure everything is working properly. They can walk you through the basics of setting up and integrating access control tags within your business or home.

In conclusion, access control systems are an asset to any business, large or small. The security they provide is invaluable and well worth the small investment. If you are still hesitant about investing in an access control system, reach out to an experienced access control company who can help guide you through any remaining questions or concerns you may have.

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