IoT (Internet of Things) has emerged as a technology, revolutionizing the interconnectedness of physical devices. Internet of Things refers to devices sharing data over the Internet with the help of wireless networks, sensors, gateways, and physical devices capable of data collection and data transmission.
IoT has become ubiquitous with the closest example of a smartphone which can be easily spotted around us. With the rise of internet technology, the no. of IoT devices has reached 15B as per a 2023 report which is bound to double by 2030. IoT finds applications in various forms of smart devices such as a smartwatch, a voice assistant, a smartphone, IoT security systems, and access control systems.
IoT based access control systems play an important role in protecting our assets from threats like identity thefts, digital scams, and data breaches. Using IoT technology in managing access to our personal and professional spaces ensures the protection of our valuable assets, our digital identity, login credentials, and passwords.
The integration of IoT technologies with existing access control systems is transforming our traditional approach to accessing spaces. IoT is thus enabling a new era of convenience, efficiency, and security.
What is IoT Access Control?
IoT access control is a technique for controlling some access control components like doors, locks, and credentials by connecting them to the internet. Through this process, they will establish connections and communicate with each other. The prominent IoT technologies that can be used for access control systems are BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy), RFID, Biometrics, etc.
Access control is just one of the capabilities of IoT, where IoT can connect the whole world. Today, many industries have adopted IoT technology into their businesses to enhance their overall capabilities. This includes using IoT-enabled CCTV cameras to monitor the fields of farmers, where cameras will provide real-time information about their movements and inform farmers. In any emergency, it will throw an alarm on a farmer's smartphone with a live feed of the field.
How IoT-based Access Control Works?
The Internet of Things creates an ecosystem between smart devices. In terms of access control systems, IoT grants power to credential readers, locks, and door openers to communicate through the Internet. This ecosystem uses a higher volume of data exchange. As a result, it increases the features of the access control system, which results in users accessing more useful data.
For example, an IoT-enabled camera access system can increase the security of a resident, help security staff monitor the real environment of the residency, and store digital photographs of any door movements.
What are the Components of an IoT Access Control System?
There are three components of an IoT access control system as follows:
1. Credentials: A credential comes in various forms, like Internet-enabled smart cards and FOB keys on a smartphone, which are used to send wireless signals to the credential reader. Residency is equipped with these credentials, providing fast access to various places.
2. Readers: Readers are working as an authenticator to verify the user's identity. The type of reader you choose for your access control system will require the credentials you must carry. So, you first have to decide the type of credential before selecting the reader, like a fob reader, Bluetooth reader, smartphone-based reader, or more.
3. Electric or magnetic lock: Electric locks are the final stage of an access control system. Once the reader verifies that the credential is valid, it tells the electric lock to open or close the doors. After that, a visitor can enter.
What are the advantages of using an IoT access control system?
Some elements of the IoT Access Control System help us access doors and buildings without any trouble.
1. Wireless: The IoT access control system is a wireless technology, meaning it does not require you to break down walls or rip off the flooring for the installation process. You just have a power supply and an internet connection. So, it will reduce the installation and maintenance costs and can even help reduce the chances of system malfunctions.
2. Keyless: Many traditional access control systems require physical printed or metallic keys, as some residents have lost them by mistake. But with an IoT access system, you can use FOB keys built-in applications for smartphones, which can help in easy access control where residents can use their smartphones to open the doors.
3. Integration-friendly: The IoT access control system is easy and convenient. You can create digital credentials to grant residential access through an online dashboard connected with an IoT access control, which makes this process simple and convenient. Which can be helpful in monitoring the real-time activity of various places like homes, buildings, offices, and conference halls.
To conclude, technology has completely changed our way of living and working, and the internet is playing a key role in transforming our lives. The use of the Internet is a modern way of access control that provides IoT technology to make building access simple for visitors, property holders, and property staff.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1) What is IoT?
IoT refers to the collection of multiple networks of connected devices and technology that facilitates communication between the cloud and connected devices.
Q2) What is IoT in security systems?
IoT security (Internet of Things security) is a technology segment that is focused on providing safety to connected devices and networks in IoT.
Q3) Why do we need an IoT security system?
IoT-enabled smart devices always deal with large amounts of data, and they store critical information such as personal data, login and password credentials, and financial data, which must be secured. Any breach of the security system will lead to the consequences of identity theft and financial loss.
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