Business Security
5 different types of access control
Manual access control
For manual access control, people are used to securing specific access points, such as doormen, stewards, or customer service agents. They identify people who want to enter the premises and decide based on predefined criteria whether or not they can – for example, a person presenting a ticket before entering a concert venue. This is often practiced at highly frequented access points such as cinemas, theatres, zoos, and theme parks where it is difficult to get information from people beforehand and identification isn’t required.
Mechanical access control
For mechanical access control scenarios, mechanical technology is used to secure an access point. A common example of this would be a cylinder lock with a suitable key – so this would be used typically in homes or garages.
Electronic access systems
For buildings with advanced security requirements, electronic access control can be used to secure access points. For these types of access, a card, chip or other fobs with the correct credentials must be presented to a reader in order for a person to pass through. This will also keep a record of who has passed through the area and when.
There are two types of Electronic access systems:
Standalone systems
These are used for single access points. The access decision is made on the basis of access permissions locally in the standalone component. These systems are not wired, which means the installation requirements are less than wired controls, saving time-on-site, and allowing for easy retrofitting of components. Using standalone access components vs wired online access control, for sites where access control would traditionally not be possible due to location or existing site infrastructure, a standalone component can be used to implement an access control solution more effectively. Standalone components can also be integrated into a larger access control system with a combination of both online and standalone components. In addition, it is easy to integrate offsite access points and provides the possibility of integration into bigger systems. Examples of standalone components include Digital Cylinders, Mechatronic (Electronic and Mechanical combination) Cylinders, and Electronic Door Locks.
Online systems
Used for larger sites with high access rates, these are wired and connected to the host system’s access control software. High-security levels can be achieved with these systems due to the real-time message exchange between the components and the software. In addition, there are interfaces to many other systems that can be incorporated, such as an alarm system, elevator control, etc.
Mechatronic access control
A combination of electronic and mechanical can also be used to offer further security. In this instance, the electronic system first checks the card/code/other media used, and only after passing this can a key be used on the mechanical lock to open the door. This sort of combination is typically used in offices with high-security requirements, private residential buildings, and server rooms.
Physical access systems
Physical access systems play an important role in access control and security – no matter how high quality a lock or access control system is, if the door or physical access system can be overpassed then it is of little importance. Thus, the physical access system must be viewed holistically and in line with safety requirements. Examples of physical access systems include:
- Sensor barriers
- Half-height turnstiles
- Full-height turnstiles
- Tripod turnstiles
- Revolving doors
- Security interlocks
Whether residential or commercial, access control systems are vital to protect premises from unauthorized persons. It is important to take a broad look at the security required and consult with a leading manufacturer of access control solutions to ensure the safety of a place, its occupants, and the items inside.
Which access control is right for your building?
When we talk about access control we are referring to an electronic security system. Access control is used to identify an individual and authorize it to enter certain areas. The person entering may be an employee, a contractor, or a visitor. Access control systems mostly come in three variations: discretionary access control, mandatory access control, and role-based access control.
How access control works
Access control readers are installed to provide access to the building based on established credentials. These credentials can be key cards, key fobs, biometrics, among others. The card readers are connected to a network that allows individuals to get in with one of the credentials mentioned before and the system recognizes that they are authorized to be in the building. An appropriate access control software that fits your needs is essential. The software will track and keep who enters and exits the building and will allow supervisors, owners, etc. to keep track of it in case of a break-in.
If you’d like to get installed access control for your business and you’re still not sure of what’s the criteria for choosing the right company to take care of it. You can read our Access Control System Installation Considerations and Planning article.
Discretionary access control
Discretionary Access Control is a type of access control system that holds the business owner responsible for deciding which people are allowed in a specific location, physically or digitally. DAC is the least restrictive compared to the other systems, as it essentially allows individual complete control over any objects they own, as well as the programs associated with those objects. The drawback to Discretionary Access Control is the fact that it gives the end-user complete control to set security level settings for other users and the permissions given to the end-user are inherited into other programs they use which could potentially lead to malware being executed without the end-user being aware of it.

Mandatory access control
Mandatory Access Control is more commonly utilized in organizations that require an elevated emphasis on the confidentiality and classification of data (ie. military institutions). MAC doesn’t permit owners to have a say in the entities having access to a unit or facility, instead, only the owner and custodian have the management of the access controls. MAC will typically classify all end-users and provide them with labels that permit them to gain access through security with established security guidelines.

Role-based access control
Also known as Rule-Based Access Control, RBAC is the most demanded in regard to access control systems. Not only is it in high demand among households, RBAC has also become highly sought-after in the business world. In RBAC systems, access is assigned by the system administrator and is stringently based on the subject’s role within the household or organization and most privileges are based on the limitations defined by their job responsibilities. So, rather than assigning an individual as a security manager, the security manager position already has access control permissions assigned to it.

Physical Security Guide
What is physical security?
Physical security measures are designed to protect buildings and safeguard the equipment inside. In short, they keep unwanted people out and give access to authorized individuals. While network and cybersecurity are important, preventing physical security breaches and threats is key to keeping your technology and data safe, as well as any staff or faculty that have access to the building. Without physical security plans in place, your office or building is left open to criminal activity, and liable for types of physical security threats including theft, vandalism, fraud, and even accidents.
Determining your risk level
Before implementing physical security measures in your building or workplace, it’s important to determine the potential risks and weaknesses in your current security. Detection is of the utmost importance in physical security. While it is impossible to prevent all intrusions or breaches, having the right tools in place to detect and deal with intrusions minimizes the disruption to your business in the long run.
To locate potential risk areas in your facility, first, consider all your public entry points. Where people can enter and exit your facility, there is always a potential security risk. Baseline physical security control procedures, such as proper access control measures at key entry points, will help you manage who is coming and going and can alert you to potential intrusions. Once inside your facility, you’ll want to look at how data or sensitive information is being secured and stored.
Components of physical security control for buildings
The three most important components of your physical security control for offices and buildings are access control, surveillance, and security testing methods. While the other layers of physical security control procedures are important, these three countermeasures are the most impactful when it comes to intrusion detection and threat mitigation.
Access control
Securing your entries keeps unwanted people out, and lets authorized users in. A modern access control system is your first line of defense, so having the best technology is essential. There are a few different types of systems available; this guide to access control systems will help you select the best system for your building. The main things to consider in terms of your physical security are the types of credentials you choose if the system is on-premises or cloud-based, and if the technology meets all your unique needs.
Surveillance tools
Surveillance is crucial to physical security control for buildings with multiple points of entry. The most common type of surveillance for physical security control is video camera surveillance. Video management systems (VMS) are a great tool for surveillance, giving you visual insight into activity across your property. When adding surveillance to your physical security system, choose cameras that are appropriate to your facility, exterior doors will need outdoor cameras that can withstand the elements.
Benefits of physical security measures
Beyond the obvious benefit of physical security systems to keep your building protected, the technology and hardware you choose may include added features that can enhance your workplace security. Especially with cloud-based physical security control, you’ll have added flexibility to manage your system remotely, plus connect with other building security and management systems.
Why Your Growing Company Needs a Mobile Based Access Control System
Save money when growth requires a new office space
Contrary to popular misconceptions, the installation and setup costs for a mobile access control solution are cheaper than installation for a traditional server-based access control solution. Plus, a mobile access control system means you don’t have to buy keycards and fobs, which can save money.
It wasn’t always like this. We used to have only two options for access control: A traditional server-based access control solution with prox keycards or an old-school cylinder lock and brass key system. While legacy keycard systems provide more functionality than their analog counterparts, they use outdated technologies like the Wiegand protocol that is insecure and vulnerable to hacking. Plus, all the hardware associated with legacy systems can be expensive. Fortunately, we now have a third option: mobile access control systems. These systems use cloud-based and smartphone-based access control—and they’re less expensive to install than the hard-wired alternatives.
Design and setup are faster and easier
Smartphone access solutions save time and prevent headaches when moving offices. For one, mobile access solutions let you add the convenience of smartphone credentials seamlessly, whether you’re implementing a new system or integrating with an existing one. No need to manually program individual keycards, or fobs. Access control system technology is easy to install (technicians can even use the existing wiring from your legacy system!), you’ll be up and running with a high-tech access control solution in no time.
Mobile access is more secure
There are other reasons why smartphones are better, such as the fact that you can’t copy a smartphone at the corner convenience store, but for just $11, you can duplicate most keycards and key fobs. Long story short: It’s pretty clear why smartphone-based access control is more secure.
What kind of access solutions do you want?
At Dicsan Technology, we’re passionate about matching our clients with our patented, mobile access control technologies. We will guide you through the process of selecting the perfect configuration for your needs to maximize security, ease of implementation, and cost savings—so you can safeguard your facilities without the delays, headaches or expenses of legacy access solutions.
How to future proof your security system
Regardless of the exact dollar amount spent, many end users have similar expectations. They want to make sure they can continue to leverage the benefits of their newly installed access control or surveillance system for several years in the future.
System Maintenance
Invest in regular system maintenance of both your access control and surveillance systems. Most manufactures have a publish update schedule on a quarterly basis or semi-annual basis. However, even though a manufacturer will issue software updates to either enhance a system or to fix a bug, never allow an update to be done to your system without first verifying the update with your systems integrator. It’s important to have a valid software agreement so you can be notified when there’s an update and when it’s completed. You also want to make sure any software updates are proven to be stable.
Reputation and Capacity
When buying a new access control system, it’s important to review the technology being installed to determine whether it is reliable and from a reputable company. While installing cutting-edge technology from a start-up access control company may be exciting, the viability of that company in two or five years should be taken into consideration. Also, make sure that the system you are implementing can grow as your business grows. For access control systems, keep in mind the system’s reader capacity and cardholder count.
Network Infrastructure
Before beginning any installation project, make sure to review your network infrastructure. While your network might have an appropriate amount of bandwidth to handle a small load of surveillance cameras, what would happen if you needed to add five or even 10 high-definition cameras in the future? A common problem in the residential market today is that many homeowners are adding surveillance cameras to their networks, but their low-cost internet service cannot handle the data upload requirements for these cameras. The same can happen in the business world, where a network can quickly exceed capacity due to a lack of knowledge about its limitations.
By taking a few simple steps, in conjunction with working with your security systems integrator, corporate security directors can protect the investment they are making in their security system by ensuring it has the proper foundation to handle future needs.
Is it legal to install surveillance cameras in the office?
In most states in the USA is legal for employers to install video surveillance cameras in the office/workplace if they are for a legitimate business concern. Many employers use video cameras to prevent internal theft or for security purposes, which generally is permissible as long as the employers notify workers about the surveillance. There may be legal limits on the places where cameras can be placed, as well as notice requirements and limits to extent to which surveillance can occur. But there are some instances where it is not allowed. Employers may not use surveillance to monitor union activity, some state laws limit how and where employees may be monitored.
When employers use video cameras to monitor employees, they must have a legitimate business reason. State privacy laws may determine the extent at which video monitoring is considered legitimate and therefore lawful. As a business owner, you always risk the liability of a lawsuit if you choose to install surveillance cameras in the office.
Reasons and methods for workplace video surveillance
Prevent internal theft
If a business is having an issue with internal theft or employees that are engaging in dishonest behavior, employers have a legitimate reason to install security cameras in the office.
Secure employees
The state will allow employers to use video surveillance to protect any individuals who may be threatened by criminal acts.
Ensure productivity
Business owners have indicated that surveillance cameras can help to improve workplace productivity and motivate employees to perform their day-to-day duties without slacking off.
Location of cameras at work
It is quite common for retail stores, banks, restaurants, and other employers that interact with the public to use video surveillance in locations where security or theft-prevention is important. But while it is fair to say that an employee working behind the counter at a jewelry store has no reasonable expectation of privacy, employees who work in cubicles probably expect some privacy. Additionally, employers may have a difficult time proving that employees who only interact with other employees at the workplace need to be monitored.
Notice requirements and hidden cameras
The cameras need to be placed in public areas. In most states, installing video surveillance cameras in the workplace is considered illegal if they are placed in certain areas. Specifically, areas that are intended for employee rest or comfort. These are some of the areas that are not considered public include:
- Restrooms
- Locker rooms
- Break rooms
- Employee lounges