As we continue to move towards a more connected and technologically advanced world, access control systems are evolving at a rapid pace to keep up with the changing security landscape. From biometric authentication to cloud-based solutions, the access control industry is constantly innovating and adapting to meet the needs of businesses and organizations. There are several emerging trends in access control that are set to have a significant impact on the industry.
Let’s explore the access control trends to watch out for, including new technologies, industry standards, and best practices that are shaping the future of access control. Whether you are a business owner, security professional, or technology enthusiast, these trends are sure to provide valuable insights into the future of access control and the evolving security landscape.
Here are the top 15 trending access control technologies in 2023
Assessing current and future trends in the area and anticipating the technological developments that will continue to change access control systems is essential for foreseeing the industry’s future. The cutting-edge access control technology is mobile device-centric and feature-rich.
Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Artificial Intelligence (AI) has the potential to revolutionize access control by providing advanced capabilities to secure and manage access to buildings, facilities, and systems. AI can analyze vast amounts of data, learn from user behavior, and detect anomalies in real-time, making it possible to identify potential security risks and take action before they become a threat. For example, AI-powered facial recognition systems can accurately identify authorized individuals and grant them access while denying entry to unauthorized individuals. AI can also be used to automate and streamline access control processes, such as managing access levels and permissions, generating reports, and managing access requests.
Biometrics
Biometric authentication is a highly secure and convenient way to grant access to authorized individuals in access control systems. Biometric authentication uses unique physical or behavioral characteristics, such as fingerprints, facial recognition, or iris scans, to identify individuals and grant or deny access. Biometric authentication provides a highly secure way to authenticate users, as it is difficult for unauthorized individuals to replicate or spoof biometric data. Biometric authentication is also convenient for users, as they do not need to remember passwords or carry access cards or tokens. Biometric authentication can be integrated into various access control systems, such as physical access control systems, time and attendance systems, and logical access control systems.
Internet of Things (IoT)
The Internet of Things (IoT) has the potential to transform access control systems by enabling devices to communicate and interact with each other in real-time. IoT devices, such as smart locks, sensors, and cameras, can be integrated with access control systems to provide enhanced security and convenience. For example, smart locks can be controlled remotely through a mobile app, allowing users to grant or deny access to individuals from anywhere. Sensors can be used to detect motion, occupancy, and temperature, triggering actions such as turning on lights or adjusting HVAC systems. Cameras can be used to monitor and record access events, providing a valuable source of data for security analysis and investigations. IoT devices can also be used to automate and streamline access control processes, such as automatically unlocking doors when a user approaches, or automatically adjusting access levels based on user behavior.
Smart Wearables
Smart wearables, such as smartwatches and wristbands, are emerging as a new way to provide secure access control to buildings and facilities. Smart wearables offer a convenient and secure way to grant access to authorized individuals, eliminating the need for access cards, keys, or passwords. Wearables can also be used to track user activity and behavior, providing valuable insights for security analysis and investigations. Wearables can be integrated with access control systems to provide real-time access management, such as unlocking doors or gates automatically when the wearer approaches. Wearables can also be used for time and attendance management, allowing users to clock in and out of work or access certain areas based on their work schedule. Smart wearables offer a high level of security, as they are difficult to duplicate or steal, and can be easily deactivated if lost or stolen.
Blockchain Technology
Blockchain technology is a new way to enhance access control systems by providing a secure and decentralized way to manage access permissions and identities. Blockchain technology uses a distributed ledger to record access events and manage access permissions, making it difficult for unauthorized individuals to tamper with access data. Blockchain technology also provides a high level of transparency, as all access events and changes to access permissions are recorded on the blockchain, making it easy to track and audit user activity. Blockchain technology can also be used to eliminate the need for centralized access control systems, as access permissions can be managed through smart contracts that are automatically executed based on predefined rules. Blockchain technology can also be used to verify the identity of individuals, using biometric data or other forms of identity verification, such as digital signatures. Overall, blockchain technology provides a secure and transparent way to manage access control, while minimizing the risk of security breaches and unauthorized access. However, the implementation of blockchain technology in access control systems is still in its early stages, and further research and development are needed to optimize its use.
Augmented Reality (AR)
Augmented reality (AR) is a technology that can revolutionize access control systems by providing a new way to visualize and manage access permissions. AR can be used to overlay digital information, such as access permissions or user data, onto the real world, making it easier for users to navigate and manage access control systems. For example, AR can be used to provide visual cues and instructions to users, such as showing the location of a secure door or providing step-by-step instructions for accessing a restricted area. AR can also be used to enhance security by providing real-time alerts and notifications, such as when an unauthorized user attempts to access a restricted area. AR can also be used to monitor user behavior and activity, providing valuable data for security analysis and investigations. In short, AR has the potential to enhance access control systems by providing a new way to visualize and manage access permissions, improving security, and streamlining access control processes. However, the use of AR in access control systems is still in its early stages, and further research and development are needed to optimize its use.
Predictive Analytics
Predictive analytics is a powerful tool that can enhance access control systems by providing insights into user behavior and detecting anomalies that could signal a security threat. Predictive analytics uses machine learning algorithms to analyze large volumes of data and identify patterns and trends that might not be immediately visible to human analysts. By analyzing access control data, predictive analytics can identify unusual patterns of behavior, such as multiple failed attempts to enter a secure area, and trigger alerts or actions to prevent security breaches. Predictive analytics can also be used to improve operational efficiency, such as predicting peak times of usage and allocating resources accordingly. By integrating predictive analytics into access control systems, organizations can enhance their security measures and gain valuable insights into user behavior to optimize access control processes.
Integration
Integration plays a vital role in the access control industry, as it allows for the seamless operation of various security systems. Access control systems are designed to manage and regulate access to buildings, rooms, or sensitive areas within a facility, and integration helps to improve their functionality by integrating with other security systems such as surveillance cameras, alarms, and biometric authentication systems. This integration enables a more comprehensive approach to security, enabling better monitoring, faster response times, and enhanced protection. In addition, integration can also help to streamline the management and administration of access control systems, reducing costs and improving efficiency. By integrating access control systems with other security systems, organizations can create a more secure and controlled environment, ensuring the safety and protection of their personnel, assets, and information.
Multi-factor authentication
Attackers, phishing attempts, and other scams are bombarding the public, raising security fears to an all-time high. Due to this, there has been a rise in the need for ultra-secure solutions. Multiple identifiers are typically required for access in multi-factor authentication systems. This means that gaining entry will require not just one credential but several different forms of identification.
Multi-factor authentication (MFA) added to access control systems increases safety by making it more difficult for intruders to break in. It can be utilized to safeguard both digital and tangible possessions.
Mobile access
It is estimated that 6.92 billion individuals around the world use a smartphone. This number itself demonstrates why mobile access control is rapidly becoming the norm. Smartphones have become very accessible. Individuals use them for everything from placing takeout orders to booking cabs. As a result, the industry is adapting to the new normal by making smartphones the new access key.
The potential of access control lies in the convenience of using a smartphone to control and manage building access. Therefore, an access control system is the best option for every business.
Cloud-based infrastructures and applications
Modern methods of regulating who is allowed on your property and at what times have made access management a need. Cloud computing has made it easier than ever to control your building’s entry points. By moving your access control system to the cloud, you can avoid the hassle and expense of maintaining an on-premises server. This way, your data will be backed up regularly, and your software will be updated without intervention. In addition, the system can be controlled remotely.
Video-based access control
Video-based access control is a security technology that utilizes video cameras to monitor and control access to buildings, facilities, or restricted areas. With this technology, video cameras are strategically placed at access points, such as doors, gates, or elevators, to capture and analyze video footage in real-time. The footage is then processed using sophisticated algorithms that can identify and verify the identity of individuals seeking access. Video-based access control systems can also be integrated with other security systems, such as alarms, biometric scanners, and RFID tags, to provide comprehensive security solutions. The benefits of video-based access control include enhanced security, reduced risk of unauthorized access, and improved monitoring and surveillance capabilities.
Security Convergence
Security convergence is a relatively new notion in the field of information technology. Convergence in security refers to integrating traditional physical safeguards with digital protections. People are striving to streamline the processes of both fields, especially in light of the growing prevalence of remote work, as access control systems are becoming more interconnected. Businesses can better handle security when diverse systems are properly integrated. Thus, unified security will significantly lessen security risks associated with disjointed systems. Also, with everything in one place, companies can save on the manpower required to maintain the systems.
Contactless access
Contactless systems have been viewed very differently since the COVID-19 outbreak. People choose touchless access control systems. They are more practical and safer for their health. To establish keyless entry, certain systems can also include facial recognition. Sometimes, you’ll need credentials like a card or an app to go in. Then, guests won’t have to interact physically with the building to get entry.
Edge Computing
Edge computing is a rapidly emerging technology in the field of access control, enabling faster and more efficient processing of data from access control systems. By processing data at the edge of the network, closer to the source of the data, edge computing reduces latency and improves response times, making access control systems more responsive and efficient. In access control, edge computing can be used to process data from sensors and cameras in real-time, enabling faster identification and response to potential security threats. Additionally, edge computing can reduce the amount of data that needs to be transmitted to the cloud or a central server, improving bandwidth usage and reducing costs. As access control systems become more advanced and interconnected, edge computing is likely to become an increasingly important technology in enabling faster and more efficient access control solutions.
Conclusion
The most up-to-date access control systems not only make security a natural part of the modern way of life but also increase efficiency, ensure safety, and make entering and leaving buildings a breeze for everyone involved. These emerging trends in access control reflect a continued focus on security, convenience, and innovation. As the industry evolves, we can expect to see even more advances in access control technology, providing greater flexibility, scalability, and intelligence to meet the needs of businesses and organizations.
