Understanding the Types of Access Control Security Systems

by | Apr 15, 2025 | Access Control, Access Control Systems, Security Systems

Controlling who can access your facility spaces or property increases safety and peace of mind for many. Utilizing access control systems allows you to set, track, and record access to important spaces, but depending on your needs, one type of access control security system may be better suited for your application.

Whether you need an access control system solution for residential or commercial/ industrial needs, make sure to consider the following factors below to ensure you select the right system for you.

What is an Access Control Security System?

An access control security system is a security system that regulates access and entrance to specific buildings or spaces within that building by using keycards, PIN and QR codes, or biometrics scanners. Doorways, windows, entrances, and perimeters of any kind can be monitored and protected to control access to them.

Access Control Security Systems are designed for a variety of uses and applications including:

  • Commercial/ Industrial Facilities
  • Businesses and Organization Buildings
  • Residential Homes
  • Vacation Homes and Properties
  • Government Buildings
  • Healthcare Clinics and Facilities
  • Schools
  • Private Property

Boss Security & Automation partners with leading security product manufacturers to provide Access Control Security System installation services for hardware and software to protect your facility and improve your safety procedures to reduce break ins, theft, and harm to your facility or individuals in the space.

What Types of Access Control Security Systems Are There?

Access Control Security Systems is a broad term encompassing different specific types of access control systems. At Boss Security & Automation, we offer a variety of different access control product solutions to meet both residential and commercial needs, providing and installing leading security products to increase the safety of your property, workers, and all who access those areas.

1. Role Based Access Control Systems

Role Based Access Control (RBAC) Systems allow Administrators to allow or restrict access to certain areas based on the organization’s roles. Using a RBAC System , an administrator can specify and define roles, as well as determine which areas a role needs access to. Once the roles are defined in the system, each user is assigned a role which will give them permissions to access areas where they can do their job or operate. With RBAC, a user can be included in different assigned groups, but can only be given one role.

This access control system is an ideal choice for many small to medium sized businesses because an owner can select who has access to what areas and when. Creating groups of two to 200 employees is a simple and effective way to control access to the entire business and maintain safety and security.

2. Attribute Based Access Control Systems

Attribute Based Access Control (ABAC) Systems grant or restrict access to certain areas based on multiple “attributes” assigned to users and resources alike. ABAC Systems can be seen as a contrasting technique to RBAC Systems. ABAC allows administrators to maintain increased control over increasing risk factors.

Through ABAC, a user can only access a resource with corresponding attributes. Attributes can include a security clearance level, job title, file types, or even an accessible location and specific time of day. This technique allows for an admin of an organization or business owner to create security policies that update according to an organization’s needs and requirements, while ensuring a high-level of security and adaptability. While the setup process of ABAC security policies can take administrators more time than other security techniques, it is primarily for large and dynamic teams. These systems can be controlled from your smartphone, laptop, tablet, or desktop to ensure you have visibility anywhere, at any time.

3. Facility Based Access Control Systems

Facility Based Access Control Systems are used to implement systems to regulate who can enter, exit, or access specific areas within a building or property.

This ensures all individuals have access to the spaces or resources they need and eliminates the risk of unknown individuals accessing sensitive areas or resources. For schools, government buildings, healthcare facilities, businesses, or any facility space, Facility Based Access Control Systems can also be used to set up a “man trap” to contain threats and reduce potential dangerous situations until proper authorities arrive on scene. These systems also allow you to manage “who’s in” or missing from a space to quickly monitor and report at an individual level to streamline safety protocols.

4. Cloud Based Access Control Systems

Cloud Based Access Control Systems leverage the cloud to manage and control physical access to facilities, offering centralized management, remote access, and scalability, while reducing costs and complexity compared to traditional on-premises systems. With Cloud Based Access Control, admins can manage access control of multiple physical locations within one convenient platform. This system allows for QR code entry, geo tracking, Bluetooth, and NEC type access to buildings.

Both NEC and Bluetooth access control readers use Bluetooth/NEC technology to allow users to gain access to secured areas using their smartphones. By downloading the app on a smartphone and registering the device, individuals can use their smartphone to access the building. NEC and Bluetooth access is securely encrypted to prevent unauthorized access and offers a convenient and cost-effective way to manage access control, eliminating the need for physical key fobs or cards.

5. Biometric Access Control Systems

Biometric Access Control Systems utilize physical or behavioral traits, like fingerprints or facial recognition, to verify identity and grant access to restricted areas, offering a more secure alternative to traditional methods like keys or cards. Some other examples of biometric traits include iris scans, voice recognition, and palm/finger vein pattern scanning. Biometric Access Control Systems are ideal for highly sensitive areas or facilities with protected data and information that needs to be controlled.

6. Physical Credential Access Control Systems

Physical Credential Access Control Systems use physical objects or data, like keycards and fobs, to authenticate individuals and grant or deny access to restricted areas. This is a common access control system used in gyms, business offices, or educational facilities.

Physical Credential Access Control Systems can be used to regulate who has access to a space at specific times. For example, cleaning crews may have access to all spaces in a building at different times and days than standard employees. Access to a space is recorded and tracked so you have a log of who entered an area, when, and at what time to increase security protocols.

7. Integrated Access Control Systems

Integrated Access Control Systems are compatible with security and surveillance systems and fire systems by using an API (Application Programming Interface) connection to pull up a video clip when someone accesses a door or opens an emergency exit door that triggers a fire alarm. This enables organizations to manage and monitor access to facilities from a single platform and easily track entry points of a building.

Boss Security & Automation is your trusted resource for Access Control Security Systems. Our team has the experience to work with you to understand your specific concerns and needs for your security system to find the best solution for your facility or home. Boss Security & Automation offers the products and installation services to get the job done.

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