Door entry vs access control: what is the difference?
A door entry system lets you see or speak to a visitor and release the door for them. An access control system decides which people can open which doors, using fobs, cards, codes or an app, without anyone having to answer. Many buildings use both: door entry for visitors, and access control for the residents or staff who come and go daily.
What does a door entry system do?
A door entry system puts a call panel at the entrance and a handset, screen or app inside. The visitor presses a button, you see or speak to them, and you release the door if you choose. Audio-only systems carry speech; video entry adds a camera so you can see who is there.
Locks & Alarms Ltd installs Hikvision video entry with video verification and two-way communication, depending on the system configuration. With the Hik-Connect app, authorised users can receive video entry calls and manage access remotely.
What does an access control system do?
Access control replaces keys with credentials. Each person has a fob, card, code or app login, and the system decides which doors that credential opens. A lost fob is deleted from the system instead of the locks being changed.
Systems scale from one door to many. Locks & Alarms Ltd installs Paxton access control, from standalone Compact readers with key fob access up to networked Paxton Net2 for larger or more complex sites, with multiple users and access permissions.
Which one do I need?
A house usually needs door entry, often video entry at a front door or gate. An office, shop or school usually needs access control, so staff can come and go while the door stays secure. Apartment buildings commonly need both: residents use fobs and visitors use the entry panel.
The free quote visit establishes how many doors and users are involved and whether the two should work together. Call 01322 436084 or book a free quote.
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Related service: Access Control