Pros and Cons of Biometric Security Readers
Biometric security readers rely on the user’s biological qualities to grant or deny access to a certain area. A couple of years back, biometric security readers were a reserve of airports and government agencies. Today, you can see them in hospitals, commercial banks, retailers, and schools, among other areas. Different systems use different identification parameters to grant access. However, most use face, fingerprint, eye or a combination of these properties. Apart from granting access, it also keeps a date & time log of everyone who accessed the building and tracks them through secured access points.
Pros
One of the main benefits of biometric security readers is their enhanced security; the chances of the system being compromised are quite slim. First, every person has a unique set of biometrics. And, second, you cannot leave your face, fingerprint or blood vessels at home. Therefore, if you have installed a biometric security reader, you can rest assured that your premises are secure round the clock. And if you want to tighten the security parameters, then you can always add an extra layer of biometrics verification. For instance, you can install a system where your employees will be using a combination of card and biometric credentials to gain access.
Another advantage of installing biometric security readers is that they are cost effective in the long term. As much as the initial cost might be high, their maintenance needs are minimal. For instance, if you are using access control cards, you may need to replace the fobs and issue new badges regularly. With a biometrics system, you don’t have to discard obsolete cards or badges making biometrics environmentally friendly. Apart from that, these systems don’t require human personnel to man a door or check credentials. Instead, you can use the funds you would have used for security personnel to boost other aspects of your business. Plus, over the last few years, more companies have installed biometric security readers which has pushed the cost of installing these systems lower, thus making it an attractive option for businesses who want to secure their promises.
You should also note that biometric data is not transferrable. You have probably come across a scene in a movie where an intruder transfers fingerprints onto a sticky material such as tape, and then uses it to open a biometric lock. However, such situations are almost nonexistent in real life. And if your biometric security reader has several layers, then a single set of fingerprints will not be enough to unlock it. With this type of security, you can identify an intruder within a few seconds, and then notify the authorities or your security team.
Biometric security readers are also easy to use. Their mode of operation is quite basic. If it’s a fingerprint reader, then the user just needs to place their finger(s) on the reader, and the system will scan and then provide access. Also, you can easily integrate these readers into other security systems in your facility, such as IP camera surveillance systems. And once you do that, you will have significantly enhanced the security of your property, while making it easy to monitor movement and access.
Cons
Some people opt for other access control system instead of biometric security readers, due to the higher initial cost. Small businesses may not be in a position to enjoy the benefits of biometric security readers, unless their industry requires rigorous, on-site security. As much as the cost of maintenance is lower, installing biometric security readers is a capital-intensive process.
At least 1% of the population is not identifiable via fingerprints. Therefore, if it’s the only biometric parameter you are using in your organization, then you might face some challenges. To avoid such a situation, it’s advisable to use a combination of a keypad and a fingerprint. As much as the installation price may warrant some fiscal consideration, the combination of a wide range of identification methods will provide more flexibility.
Bottom Line
When it comes to installing an access control system for your property, you can use either a card access system or a biometric security reader. Each method has its strengths and weaknesses. Furthermore, you should remember that installing the most advanced system on the market, doesn’t mean that it’s the best option for your property. Working with a trusted security company to provide a thorough assessment of your security needs, will ensure you choose a system that suits your situation.