Page 46 - Security Today, February 2018

ings that contain numerous security points. Standalone systems require an administra- tor to walk to each reader to retrieve the information and make changes to the access rights. This is not only time consuming, but it also means that standalone readers can- not be monitored in real time. The inability for real-time monitoring can be especially problematic in schools and other facilities where an immediate lockdown capability may be needed.
Networked Solutions
Implementing a networked, or online solu- tion eliminates the need for administrators to walk to each lock to update the system or download the audit trail. Wired solutions have been around for more than 30 years. During that time, development of wireless technology has improved to the point where wireless systems can be as effective as wired systems can but at a fraction of the cost. Both hardwired and wireless solutions allow system administrators to download audit trails and program locks over the internet, cutting time down significantly. Both solu- tions can provide real-time monitoring and management, and have more efficient lock- down capabilities.
Wired solutions are more practical for new buildings as they require extensive wir- ing. When retrofitting a building, using wired access control can be very costly and labor intensive. In order to extend wiring to the lock, the door must be drilled with a race- way. This process is tedious, requires special skills and leaves little room for error. Special electronic hinges with thru-wires are needed to run the wire from the frame to the door and ultimately, to the lock. Another factor to take into consideration for a retrofit is the productivity of those already occupying the building. The excessive noise and dust that are by-products of modifying doors can be very disruptive in environments where peo- ple are working.
To prevent the additional cost, time and construction of having to run wire through older buildings, facility managers and other decision-makers should consider a wireless access control solution. Not only is installa- tion significantly faster, the costs with imple- menting a wireless solution is far less than those associated with traditional wired so- lutions. This is due to the complexity of the installation, hardware and ongoing licensing. There are, however, other factors to consider when deciding on a wireless system.
One aspect that is important to consider is the type of wireless connection the device uses—Wi-Fi or a wireless mesh network. When implementing a Wi-Fi system, mul- tiple antennas will typically be needed to support the size of the building and solution, adding to the installation costs. Wi-Fi, while
extremely common, is generally less secure than using a wireless mesh network such as Zigbee. Zigbee 802.15.4 was developed for devices with long battery life in wireless ap- plications. This technology is more secure than Wi-Fi networks, allows for fast system reconfigurations and is less expensive.
Another element to consider when com- paring wireless solutions is how often the system updates. In most cases, systems will only force updates once or twice a day. This can be less than ideal for several reasons. A system might not have the appropriate access rights for hours after the administrator up- dates the system on the computer, leaving the building open to unintended security risks. The more advanced wireless solutions on the market are designed force an update every ten minutes. This newer technology creates a much more secure environment.
Advanced Network Solutions
Some platforms available provide much needed flexibility by allowing smart creden- tials to be data transmitters between access points. These data-on-card systems can both read and write update information at the lock/reader of both offline devices and head-end systems and relay it back to the server. This known as a virtual network. This two-way communication between the card and door allows the smart credentials to act as carriers and enables the readers of each door to be updated with crucial information. Implementing this type of “virtual” network eliminates the need for having a wired or wireless lock at every opening one wishes to
secure. This greatly reduces the costs of the access control system. The characteristics of how a virtual network works with advanced smart card technology both saves time and money, and tightens security by providing actionable data in a more efficient way.
Retrofitting a virtual network into a building is a relatively inexpensive initiative. In fact, implementing a virtual network ac- cess control system can ultimately cost two to three times less than a standard wireless system. It is important for decision-makers to contact experts in the industry to under- stand what solution or combination of solu- tions is best for their situation.
There are many factors to consider when deciding to retrofit a building with an up- dated access control solution. It is crucial to understand the needs of the facility, as well as the pros and cons of each type of solu- tion. A well-designed and executed access control system can help reduce maintenance and operational costs, while still providing the highest level of security the administra- tor desires. There may be specific situations where it makes sense to install a combina- tion of wireless and virtual networks to best serve the security needs of a building. Ap- plying new technologies gives distributors, installers and end users a unique chance to help facilities build a
customized access con- trol system that fits all of their specific needs.
Gordon Holmes is a prod- uct manager for St. Louis- based Hager Companies.
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