The process of managing access to buildings and restricted areas in today’s security-focused world is very important. Gone are the days when people used to carry large keys or use physical security systems which were unreliable. For modern businesses and government entities in Saudi Arabia, there is an increasing trend to look at high-tech access control solutions for a more secure and efficient security strategy.
With a plethora of options available, selecting the best access control system could be an overwhelming task. Two major options that are available in the market are centralised and IP-based access control systems. In this part, we will delve deeper into the essential features, benefits and factors to consider of these two technologies so as to enable you to make a well-informed choice for your specific needs.
Centralised Access Control System
Centralised access control systems, sometimes referred to as traditional systems, have been the mainstay of physical security for decades. These systems operate with a central control panel that manages all access points within a facility or across multiple buildings. Here’s a breakdown of how they work:
Humanizer Text:
- Components: A centralised system normally has a control panel, card readers installed at access points (doors, gates, etc.), and user credentials (key cards, fobs, or biometrics).
- Operation: When a user presents their credential at a reader, the control panel verifies its validity and grants or denies access based on pre-programmed permissions. Data transmission between readers and the panel is often achieved through dedicated wiring.
Pros of Centralised Systems:
- Cost-effective for small setups: Centralised systems are cheap for smaller buildings with few access points which is an affordable option that comes with relatively lower initial investment.
- Proven technology: These systems have a history of successful implementation so they are a reliable and well-understood technology.
- Standalone functionality: Centralised systems can operate independently without requiring a network connection thus providing some degree of security in case of network failure.
Cons of Centralised Systems:
- Limitations of scalability: If you want to add new access points or buildings you have to use additional wiring which makes expansion difficult and expensive.
- Limited flexibility: Compared to the IP-based systems, centralised systems provide less flexibility in the management of access permissions. Changing user access usually requires a physical update of the control panel.
- Maintenance issues: The troubleshooting and maintenance of a centralised system can take much time as a result of the reliance on dedicated wiring infrastructure.
The Future of Access Control
Networked/ IP-based access control systems are a significant advancement in technology for access control. These systems are based on your existing network infrastructure to provide a more scalable, flexible and user-friendly security solution.
- Components: In IP-based systems, there are intelligent controllers at each access point. These controllers communicate with a central server through your network and hence there is no need for dedicated wiring. User credentials are similar to those used in centralised systems.
- Operation: Similar to centralised systems, users present their credentials at readers. However, communication with the central server allows for real-time verification and access control decisions.
Pros of IP-Based Systems
- The growth in capacity: You can easily add new access points or buildings with IP systems. Just connect the new controller to the network, and you are all set.
- IP systems have greater flexibility: Granular control over access permissions is offered by IP systems. Through the software interface, user access can be changed, eliminating the need for physical changes at the control panel.
- Remote management: With IP systems you can control your system from anywhere in the world through the internet. This helps administrators manage security across geographically dispersed locations.
- Advanced features: IP systems frequently support a smooth integration with other security systems like video surveillance and intrusion detection, giving a complete security solution.
Cons of IP-Based Systems
- Higher initial investment: Generally, IP-based access control solutions are more expensive than traditional centralised systems at their initial stage because they require extra hardware (controllers).
- Network dependence: The proper functioning of an IP-based access control system requires an operational network for communication. Access control functionality may be interrupted by network outages.
Choosing the Right System for Your Needs in Saudi Arabia
The type of access control system that is best for your organisation depends on a number of factors:
- Size and complexity of your facility: In small, single-building facilities, IP based is an economical solution whereas you can go for a controller for a more complex and large set up.
- Security requirements: Think about the level of security needed in different areas of your facility. Level of security is more for controller based rather than IP based systems.
- Integration needs: Controller based system is very flexible to integrate compared to IP based (still Suprema has got many challenges to integrate with Honeywell access control system while ID tech has got no challenges).
- Budget: Budget depends on the size of the project, if it’s a small project that requires only one device, then you can go for IP based system, but if it’s an enterprise level project then controller based will be the better option.
Beyond Centralised vs. IP-Based: Additional Issues to Think About
In your decision, it is important to consider factors beyond the basic technology:
- Access Control Protocols: Ensure that the selected system uses common industry protocols such as Wiegand or OSDP so that it can be used with the existing readers and expanded in the future.
- Access Control Software: Evaluate how user-friendly the software interface is and whether it can manage your specific needs. Choose software that offers easy-to-understand reporting and auditing features.
- Access Control Infrastructure: For IP systems, make sure that your network infrastructure can handle extra data traffic. Consider PoE (Power over Ethernet) technology for controllers’ power supply to simplify installation and reduce cabling requirements.
- Access Control Deployment: Plan your access control deployment process carefully. Find a qualified system integrator in Saudi Arabia who has experience in installing and setting up your chosen system.
Security Management Solutions: Consider access control integration into broader security management solutions for a unified security platform that provides a centralised view of the whole security ecosystem.
Conclusion
Centralised and IP-based access control systems are both strong security solutions. Saudi Arabia as it moves forward with security solutions, IP-based access control systems and centralised access control systems will become the best choices for businesses and government entities which would want to effectively secure their physical spaces.
We recommend that if you are unsure about which technology best suits your needs, feel free to get in touch with an Authorised Distributor like Midad Advance. Midad advance has both Centralised and IP-based access control systems and have versatile engineers and skill-full technicians to fulfil the access security requirements of your projects.
If you are looking for access control system solutions, get in touch with Midad Advance.