Many companies across various industries operate multiple offices and sites across different locations, though not all businesses have the resources needed to effectively manage their unique access and security systems. Often, primary offices have dedicated on-site IT managers, leaving secondary sites without adequate security support.
To make the most efficient use of limited company resources, implementing a multi-site access control system is advisable. This allows a centralized IT team to manage multiple facilities from one unified platform. Careful planning is essential to avoid potential vulnerabilities when installing multi-site access controls.
This guide assists businesses operating multiple locations in understanding how multi-site access control can improve on-site security, optimize resource use, and avoid potential security issues to protect commercial properties.
Industries Benefiting from Multi-Site Access Control, Video Security, and Security Systems
While multi-site access control systems aren’t suitable for every business, certain scenarios significantly benefit from them. Companies with distributed teams in offices nationwide or internationally can use multi-site access control systems to allow employee access to all locations. This includes enterprise businesses, government facilities, national retail chains, construction sites, and companies in logistics or manufacturing.
In the construction industry, businesses often work from several locations simultaneously. To secure valuable machinery and protect sites from intruders, a multi-site construction access control system enhances security.
Any business requiring large numbers of staff or guests to have controlled access across multiple sites will benefit from a multi-site access system. Business owners should understand their specific needs before installation. Key questions to ask include:
- How many people need access?
- How many unique sites require controlled access?
- Do different employees need different access levels?
- Should access be restricted at certain times or on certain days?
Answers to these questions help businesses select the most effective devices for each location and develop an appropriate multi-site access control system.
For example, a building site access control system may use digital credentials that sync employee credentials, titles, or departments to their permission levels. A commercial headquarters may use time-based site access controls to lock doors after hours, while a warehouse remains open 24/7. A multi-site access system allows for different configurations and parameters for each location.
Types of Controls for Multi-Site Access Control
Each business has unique multi-site access control requirements, often needing different parameters across multiple sites. For instance, a primary office may need a parking management solution for heavy traffic, while warehouse facilities may benefit from multi-factor credentials to protect merchandise. Consider the following common multi-site access control credentials and configurations:
RFID Devices Radio-frequency proximity cards and fobs are popular for building entry management due to ease of use and security. However, they can present operational challenges:
- Assigning and revoking permissions with physical key cards can be time-consuming.
- Active credentials must be distributed physically, challenging across multiple sites.
- Employees may need different cards or fobs for each location.
- Key cards and fobs can be misplaced or forgotten.
- RFID systems may need manual maintenance or updates, difficult across multiple sites.
Mobile Credentials for Multi-Site Access Smartphone-based access control eliminates the risk of losing key cards or keys by granting users access via their mobile devices. These configurations are ideal for multi-site access control systems, allowing remote credential management and control for multiple sites.
Cloud-Based and Hybrid Multi-Site Access Control Systems Operators can choose between on-premise or cloud-based systems for securing multiple sites. A cloud-based system offers flexibility in installation, management, and integration. They are generally easier to install than on-premise systems, eliminating the need for servers and storage hardware.
Operating multiple sites often means managing unique security needs for each building. On-premise systems offer greater customization but require maintenance for each site. Conversely, a cloud-based system streamlines management, allowing instant permission adjustments and automatic updates.
A cloud-based access control system also integrates easily with other cloud technologies like video security and alarm systems. This centralizes security management, reducing the need for on-site security teams.
For existing multi-site access control systems, a hybrid deployment may offer the best return on investment. This allows an on-premise system to leverage a cloud connector, integrating new cloud-based access systems into a single platform.
Setting Up Secure Multi-Site Access Control The primary challenge in installing multi-site access control is sharing user and system data. Standalone access devices rely on localized communications for credential assessment. To safely operate a multi-site system, all devices must be synchronized and communications protected.
Adding more sites to an access control network requires integrating systems to synchronize data, permissions, and updates. Choosing an open platform ensures that all hardware and software integrate into one system. A cloud-based system allows control from anywhere, anytime.
Network security and real-time status reports protect all locations, informing the team of any abnormal behavior.
Ensure existing systems and new technology are interoperable to function as an integrated platform and employ cybersecurity best practices to protect system data.
Potential Issues with a Multi-Site Access Control System
Unsynchronized Security Systems Access control devices should be part of integrated building security systems to ensure effective incident responses. Devices across multiple sites must be integrated for effortless management and to prevent security risks.
For instance, integrating video security with multi-site access control allows instant visual verification of unauthorized entry attempts. Unsynchronized systems delay access alerts and responses. A cloud-based platform centralizes management, enabling instant issue detection and swift action.
Lack of Remote Access Effective multi-site access control for various commercial businesses must prioritize remote access. These systems save resources by allowing company-wide security management from a single platform. Networks like security cameras, visitor management, and alarm systems should also support remote access.
Delayed Alarms and Notifications A multi-site access system allows remote building security management, making synchronized devices essential for timely alerts and notifications. Devices should alert admins with detailed event information for appropriate responses.
Developing a Robust Multi-Site Security System A robust multi-site access control system ensures protection for multiple locations while reducing the need for on-site security officers. Proper planning and risk consideration are essential.
Access devices, hardware, and software should be integrated into one system for synchronized data communications, wider security system integration, and cloud-based remote management to provide reliable building security.