Worried about your business’s security? We understand. Keeping your business place safe should be your top priority. The last thing you want is to face a situation where a criminal steals confidential documents and expensive products or causes damage to your property. Let’s talk about how access control can protect your business. 

What is Access Control? 

Access control may refer to one of two things: data security and physical security. Access control for data security helps keep confidential information safe, such as passwords, banking information, etc. Physical access control prevents unauthorized individuals from entering certain buildings or rooms. Here, we’re discussing physical access control. 

How Much Does Access Control Installation Cost? 

The costs for installing a physical access control system may run anywhere between $500 to $8,000 per door. Various factors influence costs—for instance, what kind of access control system you choose. Keypad and key fob access control systems cost less than smartphone and biometric access control systems. (Biometric access control systems are the most expensive, but they’re also the most secure.) Other factors that influence costs include electronic upgrades to ensure you have the resources for an access control system and licensing fees. 

Pros and Cons of Access Control

If the thought of access control intrigues you and the prices didn’t scare you off, it’s time to make an informed decision about whether it’s right for you. The best way to do that is by weighing the pros and cons. Here are several benefits and drawbacks of a physical access control system: 

Pros 

Highly Secure

A hard-wired access control system is harder to hack than other options like IP systems. While there is a dispute over which system is better, many experts believe physical access control is more secure. After all, any unwanted intruders would need to either steal someone’s access card or figure out a way to bypass biometric safety measures like retinal or fingerprint scans. 

Reliable

Physical access control has been around for more than 50 years. Typically when a system is long-lasting, it’s because it works. Not to be cliche, but physical access control systems are tried and true. 

A man presses a button to on an access control system

Cons

We’re through the benefits. Now, let’s talk about the less fun considerations of an access control system. Here are several cons: 

Expensive 

You saw the numbers above. Physical access control systems are expensive. Plus, the costs do not always stick within that $500 to $8,000 range per door. Sometimes complications like the need to rewire your electronic system to allow for access control installation hike up costs. Prices are the number one consideration for physical access control systems. You have to ask yourself how important high-level security is to your particular business and if other options may cost less. 

Tied to Specific Locations 

Physical access control systems function with various location-specific control boxes. If you ever wanted to change the configuration of security checkpoints, it wouldn’t be easy. You can’t easily move a control box from one location to another. If you’re planning to change your layout after installing an access control system, it will be complicated. 

Doesn’t Play Well With Other Systems

If you want to have more than one security system integrating with one another, physical access control makes that hard. However, it’s possible to integrate multiple security systems with the help of a professional. The best thing you can do is discuss options with your installer. 

Alternatives to Traditional Physical Access Control 

There are other options to protect your business’s physical security. Cloud-based and web-based systems rely on a network connection instead of control boxes. However, do note these systems are more vulnerable to hacking. You could also install standalone electronic locks. 

We Can Help Protect Your Business! 

Still unsure which physical access control system is right for your needs? Let us help. Here at ASAP Locksmith, we can help you keep your business place secure while working with your budget and specialized needs. Contact us today for assistance!