Most people nowadays own at least one mobile device and, as their functionality continues to grow, we’re spending increasing amounts of time on them too. Without doubt they’re revolutionising the way we communicate and how we run many aspects of our lives. For example, who would have thought a few years ago that we might be using mobile devices as keys?
Using a mobile device to control access is something that’s becoming very popular. It involves using any device, like a smartphone, tablet or wearable, to get access through a physical barrier like a secured door or gate. Devices can also be used to gain access through virtual barriers to networks and services as well. Growing numbers of companies are opting for mobile
access control systems and here are just some of the benefits that are attracting them:
Key fobs, smart cards, access codes on doors and many other access technologies all do excellent jobs in many different kinds of environments. But mobile access control systems take security to another level.
Most mobile access control platforms use encryption for secure communication between the cloud-based server and the mobile device, and between the device and reader. The majority of systems use Bluetooth to make the device communicate with the reader; that allows them to communicate over longer distances so readers can be positioned inside the door as an extra security precaution. Because it’s all centrally controlled it’s also a lot easier to quickly revoke access rights, remotely or otherwise, if there were any particular security concerns.
And at a practical level, cards are easier to lose than phones! So it’s likely there will be fewer instances of pass cards disappearing. Lending someone your card or telling them an access control pin number is something you might do without thinking. But we bet not many people would hand over their phone to someone else so they can get back in the building after nipping out at lunchtime!
Mobile access systems can be centrally managed with multiple users being enrolled on the system very quickly and efficiently. If you’ve several sites that currently have different access systems it could make life a lot easier by giving you the option to sort out multiple accesses for them in one go. And it eliminates all the time (and cost) that’s wasted replacing stolen, lost or damaged keys or cards.
- It’s simple and convenient for users
We appreciate that some people are more comfortable with mobile technology than others. Some people might be reluctant because they think mobile access sounds a bit daunting but it’s actually really simple. To use it, the administrator sends you an invitation via an email. You just need to download the app, activate your mobile ID and you’re done.
Once it’s set up it can make life much more convenient for your employees and other users. Rather than having to remember passes or cards, they can use the phones, tablets or wearables they’d have with them anyway to get access.
Could it work for your business?
While it offers many benefits, there are a lot of practical considerations that you must think about beforehand. For example, would employees be expected to use their personal devices? Will all employees be willing to embrace the technology? How will you overcome compatibility issues?
You need to identify the specific benefits for your company but you also need to know the potential stumbling blocks and possible ways that they could be overcome. So if you’d like to know more and get some advice about whether it could be right for your premises,
please do get in touch with us. 
