What is access control system software?

access control software
Blog / Workforce Access

What is access control system software?

Access control system software is an essential tool for managing and regulating access to physical and digital spaces. It enables organizations to control access to doors, gates, networks, and other areas that require authorization, ensuring that only authorized personnel are allowed in secure areas. With access control software, businesses can benefit from improved security, increased efficiency, simplified compliance, and reduced liability risks.

 

Software used in physical access control systems

Physical access management is a critical aspect of security for organizations, and it requires the use of various software tools. The following are some of the software types commonly used for physical access management and to enhance physical access control systems (PACS):

 

    • Physical Access Control System (PACS) software: This software manages access to physical spaces like buildings, rooms, and other areas, ensuring that only authorized personnel can enter these areas. Some of the main PACS providers in the market include LenelS2, HID Global, and Honeywell.

 

 

    • Cardholder Management software: This software is used to manage the credentials of cardholders, such as creating, modifying, and deleting their accounts. It allows organizations to control and monitor access to physical spaces and assets by granting or revoking access to cardholders.

 

 

    • Visitor Management software: This software is used to regulate the entry and exit of visitors or contractors to a facility. It enables organizations to manage visitor access by verifying their identity, printing visitor badges, and keeping track of their movements within the facility.

 

 

    • Physical Identity and Access Management (PIAM) software: This software manages the entire lifecycle of physical access control, including registration and enrollment of personnel, assignment of access rights, and revocation of access privileges. PIAM software integrates with Active Directory, HR, LMS, ERP databases and physical security systems, making it easier for organizations to manage employee access to physical spaces, ensure compliance with industry regulations, and mitigate the risk of security breaches.

Depending on the requirements of an organization, using these software tools for physical access management can enhance their security measures, improve their operational efficiency, and ensure compliance with industry regulations.

 

Examples of access control systems

Access control systems are used in various settings, including businesses, hospitals, schools, and government facilities. In a business setting, access control software can be used to manage access to offices, conference rooms, and other secure areas. In a hospital setting, access control software can be used to manage access to patient rooms, labs, and other secure areas. In a school setting, access control software can be used to manage access to classrooms, libraries, and other secure areas. In a government facility, access control software can be used to manage access to sensitive areas, such as data centers and secure rooms.

 

Benefits of access control system software

The benefits of using access control system software are numerous, and they extend far beyond just security. Access control software can also improve operational efficiency, simplify compliance with regulatory requirements, and reduce liability risks. While traditional role-based access control (RBAC) systems have been widely used in access control software, attribute-based access control (ABAC) is emerging as a superior alternative.

ABAC allows access control policies to be defined based on attributes of users, resources, and environmental conditions. This makes physical access control more dynamic, flexible, and adaptive, enabling more granular and fine-grained control over access. ABAC enables organizations to define access policies that are more precise and customized, based on user attributes set to specific conditions, such as location, job function, competencies, training passed, security clearance level etc. ABAC is also better suited for dynamic environments, where access requirements change frequently, and access control policies need to be updated frequently.

By using access control system software, organizations can enforce security, safety, and health policies continuously, ensuring the safety of personnel, assets, and data. As technology continues to advance, access control system software will likely become even more sophisticated, providing more comprehensive security and access control solutions. Overall, access control system software is a crucial investment for any organization seeking to improve security, safety, and operational efficiency.

Get in touch

Please fill out our contact form to help us understand your needs better. Our experts can answer your questions and help you select the right products for your organization.