IT security and physical access control set for full convergence
Physical, proximity smart card-based access control systems are to become fully integrated with IT identity management solutions in order to make both sets of systems faster and easier to use, industry experts forecast.
Convergence eliminates the need for users to remember and carry separate cards or other devices for opening doors, logging onto computers, and accessing cloud-based applications.
Furthermore, it also enables the inclusion of other high-value applications including cashless vending, time and attendance, and secure print management. There is growing demand for provisioning IT and physical access control system (PACS) credentials to a single card or smartphone, using a single set of processes. Beyond convenience, however, the convergence of credentials onto a single card or device can greatly improve security and reduce ongoing operational costs.
It also centralises identity and access management, consolidates tasks and enables organisations to quickly and effectively use strong authentication throughout their infrastructure to protect access to all key physical and IT resources.
The access control system developed by Access Control UK can operate up to 31 clocking stations, each of which can have up to twelve scanner controllers attached to it – in effect, the system can control access to 372 different areas of any given site.
Door access can be limited by the access control software, which controls the access profile of each employee who is enrolled on the system via their fire roll call status.
Both smart card and biometric access control scanners can be combined on the same network, giving you full control over who is allowed access through any controlled point at any time of day. Sensitive or dangerous areas can easily be denied to those who do not have the appropriate security clearance.
The access control system is completely bespoke and can be used to control most standard types of internal and external electro-magnetic door releases. In addition, your system can also control access control turnstiles, barriers and bollards.