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Access Control
Physical access control refers to the security measures and systems used to regulate entry to physical spaces, such as buildings, rooms, facilities, and restricted areas. These systems are designed to manage and monitor who can enter or exit a particular location and under what conditions, ensuring the safety and security of people, assets, and sensitive information within those spaces.
1
Access Points
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Access points are entry or exit points to a physical space, such as doors, gates, turnstiles, or vehicle barriers. Each access point is typically equipped with hardware components for authentication and entry control.
2
Authentication Methods
Physical access control systems employ various authentication methods to verify the identity of individuals seeking access. Common authentication factors include:
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Access cards (e.g., proximity cards, smart cards)
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Biometric identifiers (e.g., fingerprints, iris scans, facial recognition)
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Personal identification numbers (PINs) or passwords
3
Access Control Readers
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Access control readers are devices installed at access points to read and process authentication credentials presented by individuals seeking entry. These readers may include card readers, biometric scanners, keypads, or combination devices that support multiple authentication methods.
4
Access Control Credentials
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Access control credentials are physical tokens or digital credentials issued to authorized individuals to authenticate their identity and gain access to secured areas. Common types of credentials include access cards, key fobs, mobile apps, and biometric templates.
5
Access Control Panels
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Access control panels are centralized control units that manage the authentication process and control the operation of access control readers at various access points. These panels communicate with authentication devices, verify credentials, and grant or deny access based on predefined access control policies
6
Monitoring and Logging
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Physical access control systems often include monitoring and logging capabilities to record access events, including details such as user identities, timestamps, and access points accessed. Audit trails and access logs are essential for security monitoring, compliance reporting, and forensic investigations.
