Biometrics in Access Control
As a continuously growing trend in the security and access control space, biometrics is among the strongest form of user credentials. Biometrics use unique biological characteristics or measurements to validate and confirm a users identity and within access control, the permissions and credentials to enter a designated space. It is a stronger, more secure version of access control than traditional keycards and pin codes, which can be stolen or shared with unauthorized users.
Biometrics have been known to be utilized for highly restricted areas, such as data centers, hospitals, and government facilities. However, as the technology continues to gain speed, biometric access control entry systems are increasingly being used in high traffic areas where security risks are low to capitalize on the technology’s convenience and speed.
How Do Biometric Access Control Systems Work?
In order for these systems to work, security teams first must collect the physical credentials of users enrolled in the system - fingerprints, retinas, iris, or faces - to enter into the access control database. This is done with a specialist partner to utilize a sophisticated scanner to get the three-dimensional biometric templates for users.The chosen biometric access control reader then scans the chosen characteristic and compares it to the stored credential in the database to confirm entry and triggers the door to unlock.
USE CASES FOR BIOMETRIC ACCESS CONTROL SOLUTIONS
For Businesses
Building security is the most widely adapted uses cases for biometric access control. As a part of the overall access control system in a building, biometrics are typically add-ons to help protect highly restricted areas within a facility such as server rooms, research laboratories, product development areas, and healthcare areas. This ensures that personnel with the designated security clearance can gain access to these areas. We see these technologies being particularly important in healthcare, financial services, data centers, and government institutions.
Low Security, High Traffic Areas
As biometric technology has become more widely adopted and evolved, the use has become wider and more general in the access control environment. Biometric technology is quicker and doesn’t require the time needed for entering pin codes or finding a keycard. These types of readers are now being used in high traffic areas such as main entrances or lobbies where they help eliminate delays or overcrowding with their fast form and contactless entry.
Layered Security + Two-Factor Authentication
We see two-factor authentication everywhere as security in all areas becomes more critical. This is no different in access control. In one of LVS’s recent installation in a data center environment, biometric access control was chosen to be layered with an encrypted keycard to gain access to the facility in all areas. The biometric reader first takes the fingerprint data and confirms credentials in order to swipe the users keycard. Specifically with colocation data centers, there are multiple businesses utilizing the data center, so two-factor access control security was implemented to keep secure.
KEY BENEFITS OF BIOMETRIC ACCESS CONTROL
Unique form of identity makes for high security
Familiar and evolved technology makes it easier for users to adapt
Difficult to steal or impersonate resulting in less break-ins and unauthorized users
Convenient for users without the need for physical credentials or remember passwords
Decrease in burdens for security teams in assigning keycards or pins and overall management
Stronger security - the most important benefit of having lower risk and higher capabilities
The LVS Security Division has the expertise, experience, and capabilities to help your team capitalize on the many benefits of biometrics in access control. From conception, to design, to installation, to system delivery and user training, our team is a one-stop-shop for your access control and security needs.
