What is the role of access control in security?  Some people think of security as watching, monitoring and surveilling.  But that only supports a reactive approach to security.  To be truly secure, you need to take a proactive approach.  This involves a comprehensive access control solution.  Proper planning is required to create an efficient and effective access control solution.

What do you need to protect?  Access control is the prevention of unauthorized access.  It stops people from getting to sensitive information, locations or assets.  This helps with data protection in so far that only the proper people can view, modify or delete said information.  It helps with confidentiality as it keeps information secret unless someone has proper clearance or need-to-know.  This is especially important in healthcare, finance, military, aerospace and defense industries.  Data integrity can be trusted more-so when proper access systems are in place.

More Benefits of Access Control in Security

Access control strengthens accountability as it allows organizations to track who was where and when.  This is crucial for investigations, compliance and identifying potential security incidents.  It helps ensure compliance standards are being met, protecting the company both financially and in reputation.  Risk management is made easier as access control mitigates the risks of data breaches or other security incidents that could have major consequences.

All of these physical security measures go hand-in-hand with proper employee training, visitor management efforts and safety measures.  Safety plays a major role in risk management to prevent injuries and or lawsuits.  Proper lighting as well as clear walkways and more are important for everyone’s safety.  Should an emergency occur, staff needs to know how to respond and emergency exits needs to be accessible.  These exits need to remain exits though, so again, access control in security is vital.