Traditional keys are an outdated technology. The first key is thought to have been invented in the 6th century BC, and not much has changed in the theory or application since then. But modern-day businesses need more than the humble lock and key can offer them. Not only are keys hard to manage, distribute, and protect, but they present real security risks - risks that simply do not need to be.
Most businesses, no matter the sector, will likely agree that security should always be a priority. From access control and cybersecurity to employee confidentiality, a layered security strategy is essential to keeping your team, your products, or your data safe. When it comes to physical security, advancements in access control technology - particularly around keyless security systems - mean that businesses now have far more advanced options to choose from than traditional lock-and-key methods.
Nowadays, there are a number of different keyless access control systems on the market. Some of the most common types include:
Whichever you choose, there are a number of benefits to be had from moving to a keyless approach. From facial recognition systems to remote locking integrations, moving people through your facility in a faster, safer, and more secure way has never been easier thanks to these technological advances.
There are many efficiencies to be made through the use of a keyless entry system. Electronic access systems can be reconfigured, adapted, and updated quickly and simply, adding users or revoking access with the touch of a button. This can also be done remotely - making it perfect for businesses with multiple locations who need to lock or unlock doors, or grant access, while not on site.
Traditional keys or keycards are easy to lose, as well as being easy to steal - meaning you’re at risk of unauthorised access to your building. Touchless and keyless systems give you the option of utilising biometrics or AI facial recognition technology, which mitigate the risk of password breaches or lost key cards, while also allowing for multi-factor authentication and enhanced security processes.
As well as improving the security and safety of the people and items within a building, touchless controls can also give businesses invaluable insight into trends. From peak access times to flow rates, and when specific employees enter and exit, wider automated systems give businesses access to real-time data. This in turn opens up the opportunity to monitor, adapt, and act on these insights to improve business performance.
The pandemic spurred massive changes in how business is conducted across the globe, with many organisations having to quickly adapt and evolve to survive. Touchless access control systems are designed to offer a contactless experience, allowing people to freely move through and around a building in a safe, clean way. Keyless systems offer the safety and security of access control systems but eliminate unnecessary physical contact - perfect for ensuring the safety of the people entering and exiting a facility.
When talking about the future of security, it’s impossible not to consider the advances being made in the realm of keyless and touchless technology.
In recent years, the Pentagon has developed and tested a laser that can scan and distinguish the rhythm of a person’s heart from up to 200 metres away. What is particularly unique about Project Jetson is that, unlike some other biometric technologies, the subjects of the heartbeat-detecting infrared laser can be far away from the scanner - with it capable of scanning heartbeats through clothing.
Similarly, wristbands and touchpads can authenticate users by their heartbeat. This verification can be shared with devices such as phones, computers, vehicles, and even hotel room doors, enabling secure, touch-free access.
Research has even been done by Technical University of Madrid around identifying people through their unique and recognisable natural odour. Recognition rates were higher than 85 percent for body odour, leading the researchers to refer to it as “a promising biometric identifier”.
The scope for verifying people through these sorts of unique and unusual identifiers, like scents, brain waves, or even vein patterns, is only going to get more and more advanced.
As this technology evolves, and the expectations and standards of security continue to increase, businesses are going to need to continue to be at the forefront when it comes to adopting new, data-driven technologies. Integrating keyless and touchless technology into a building’s infrastructure is a sure-fire way to create a safer, healthier, and more efficient environment.
Find out more about how Boon Edam embraces touchless technology here.