Access control systems have become a mainstay in modern security, but they are especially critical in high-security government facilities. High-security environments demand multiple layers of physical and cyber protection to protect people, information, and property. There is a lot at stake, and a good access control system can be an integral part of a facility’s security and defense infrastructure.
But even the best access control system comes with challenges. Whether it’s dealing with too much admin or managing compliance demands, we have practical tips to help you overcome some of the most common access control challenges.
Problem #1: The Upkeep Required to Keep Your System Secure
Maintaining a secure access control system is an ongoing task. It’s not a system you can set up once and maintain every few years. Unfortunately, the admin involved in keeping the system up-to-date can be overwhelming.
If your system uses physical access credentials like keycards, you’ll need to manage creating and correctly distributing the credentials. That means changing the system for every new hire, contractor, termination, and role modification. You’ll also need to deal with lost or stolen cards that could become serious security vulnerabilities.
It’s not only the physical credentials that require time and effort. The software and hardware managing the access control system will also need regular maintenance. That might mean regular system updates to address vulnerabilities or add new security features. You’ll need to invest in this hardware and software and update staff on any changes.
Keeping up with the administrative side of access control can drain your internal resources. It can also leave a lot of room for error and put your building at risk. But you can reduce your admin and keep your system more secure by:
- Using digital credentials like mobile and biometric access
- Performing regular audits and reviews to catch errors early on
- Creating a schedule to update software and hardware
Problem #2: Compliance With Ever-Evolving Regulations
Facility managers will know how often security regulations change. Government facilities must stay up-to-date with new laws, standards, and best practices to ensure their security meets all requirements. Tracking regulation changes can be time-consuming and complex, and regulations can often contradict and overlap. However, failing to comply with those regulations can result in fines, security breaches, and damage to your agency’s reputation.
So, how do you effectively and efficiently manage security compliance? By:
- Creating a dedicated compliance team that can track regulatory changes
- Partnering with security experts who can take the guesswork out of compliance
- Using systems with built-in compliance features
Problem #3: Integrating With Other Security Systems
If you want your access control system to be effective, it needs to integrate with the rest of your security systems. That includes parts of your security system such as surveillance, intrusion detection, and fire alarm systems. Integrating access control will create a comprehensive security infrastructure that can detect and respond to threats quickly.
But system integration is much easier said than done. Not all systems work well together, and if you don’t integrate them correctly, your system could have serious vulnerabilities that could be exploited later.
You can make security system integration smoother by:
- Conducting thorough pilot testing before you push the system live
- Working with vendors who understand the importance of interoperability
- Leaving it to the experts who have specialized expertise in how to make your systems work together seamlessly
Problem #4: Managing Access for Contractors and Visitors
Countless contractors, vendors, and visitors will also need short-term access to your facility. Managing their access while maintaining a high level of security is a complex task. Individuals often need temporary access to specific areas, but you’ll need to carefully monitor their movements and activities while on site.
Coordinating their access, issuing credentials, and canceling permissions in a timely manner requires a lot of admin. There is a lot of risk for human error, too. You can make managing short-term contractor and visitor access easier by:
- Creating an automated system for visitor management.
- Implementing time-limited access credentials
- Using an escort policy for every visitor
Problem #5: Cost Management
Implementing and maintaining a comprehensive access control system can require a significant financial investment. Unfortunately, it’s not an optional cost for a high-security government facility. Facility managers have to balance the need for advanced security features with limited budgets. They’ll also have to take the cost of ongoing maintenance, system updates, and personnel training into account.
The costs can add up quickly, making it difficult for an organization to justify investing in tech that could keep their facility safer. It’s possible to have an access control system that’s both comprehensive and cost-effective by:
- Adopting phased implementation that spreads out costs over time
- Exploring cloud-based systems with flexible pricing models
- Performing a cost-benefit analysis that demonstrates the ROI of an advanced access control system
Overcome Access Control System Challenges With Ariel
If you are currently facing challenges with your access control systems, we can help. Ariel Secure Technologies offers cyber-physical security systems for high-security facilities installed by a team you can trust. Our years of security expertise mean we understand the complex security needs of facilities like yours, including meeting compliance regulations while staying within budget.
We also know what’s at risk. We’ll make sure you have the correct access control system for your facility, which provides end-to-end security and eliminates many of the challenges you’ve experienced with other systems. You’ll also get the benefit of ongoing support and maintenance from a trusted partner.
Don’t let access control challenges compromise your building’s security. Contact Ariel Secure Technologies today to learn how we can help you create a secure, efficient access control solution.
