Advancements in Technology for RFID Access Control

RFID is now the preferred access control method for apartment complexes, multi-office buildings, and country clubs. Today’s smart cards and fobs use passive LF and HF RFID to communicate with RFID access control and grant users contactless access.
Admins can also customize user permissions and program automated alarms and lockdown functions to engage in the event of a breach or tampering. These features allow for more manageable security operations.


Authentication
As a technology that relies on radio signals for communication, RFID access control is much harder to duplicate, hack, or otherwise breach than traditional vital cards. It also has a higher scalability, integration, and security level than older magnetic stripe technologies.
Securing Data CentersMany businesses and organizations need help securing their facilities. This is especially true for companies that need to protect sensitive information, like data centers. One prominent data center implemented access control to prevent unauthorized entry and monitor activity at all times.
An access control can quickly verify credentials, making it much more convenient for employees to enter and exit the facility. Additionally, it takes the guesswork out of managing employee permissions by allowing for a centralized database to grant and revoke user permissions from anywhere. The ability to customize user permissions also helps businesses better manage changing business needs as they arise.


Convenience
Unlike other building security systems that rely on physical contact or proximity to a reader, access control offers touchless entry. This improves safety, convenience, and overall user experience.
When users swipe or present their access cards, fobs, or mobile devices to an RFID reader, a signal instantly validates the credential. This eliminates the need for manual verification, reducing the risk of unauthorized entry by removing human error.
Additionally, administrators can easily monitor, update, or, in some cases, revoke credentials remotely. This improves visibility, streamlines oversight, and enables more effective incident response around the clock.
Lastly, some RFID access control offer anti-collision algorithms that prevent tag collisions between readers and tags. This helps mitigate read range limitations and enables accurate data capture for applications like monitoring the condition of pharmaceuticals transported in cold chain logistics. This is especially important for healthcare facilities where hygiene control is paramount. These features enable a high level of functionality that is simply unavailable through other access control methods, such as bar codes and magnetic stripe cards.


Remote Access
Most modern RFID systems allow admins to monitor, update, and, in some configurations, even revoke access rights remotely. This enables security teams to respond quickly to incidents around the clock and improve efficiency for everyone involved.
A standard RFID access control consists of four components:
An tag is installed in a key card or fob and carries the digital credentials that allow entry into a building or facility. An reader is installed next to the door or gate that requires entry; it has an antenna designed to receive data transmitted by the tag. Depending on whether it’s active or passive, it may also emit a radio-frequency electromagnetic field to power the tags in close proximity.
The readers are connected to an internal computer server that verifies the presented credentials. When it finds them acceptable, the electric door lock releases. Similarly, if the credentials are rejected, an automated alert or lockdown function can be programmed to take action immediately.


Security
Unlike magnetic stripe cards, credentials have a chip encoded with information. This information is transmitted to readers when the card or key fob is presented and can be used to verify that the user is authorized to access the building or area. Additionally, RFID access control can incorporate automation features that allow a reader to trigger on-site security measures or alerts.
GAO RFID systems provide additional protection by allowing administrators to monitor, update, or, in some cases, revoke privileges remotely. This helps to improve incident response times, especially around the clock.
When choosing an security system, consider scalability, cost, and integration capabilities. It’s also essential to look for a system that offers a user-friendly interface, making it easy for users and admins to manage their security permissions. Select a system with strong encryption to prevent hacking and data breaches. This will protect your facility, employees, and visitors from unauthorized access.