Differences Key to High Security Lock Systems
Safety
Individual facilities often require different security levels for different areas. For example, an organization’s human resources area may require a stronger level of security than its marketing department. Meeting rooms that contain expensive audio-visual equipment require more security than cleaning closets.
Unfortunately, since keys can easily be lost, stolen, or copied, using standard mechanical locks starts to weaken the moment the system administrator distributes the keys.
In addition to preventing pick-up and drilling, today’s most effective high-security mechanical locking systems incorporate moving or magnetic components in the key and cylinder to prevent more advanced entry attempts, including the use of 3D-printed keys. For an added layer of security, the highest-security mechanical cylinder is protected by a utility patent, which makes it illegal for unauthorized parties to copy the key.
With smart and EAC systems, in the event of a security threat – for example, if personnel change – smart keys, electronic keys or key cards can be quickly disabled through the use of smart devices.
However, electronic access systems can be vulnerable to a critical point of failure. Mechanical locks are often added to EAC systems to provide access to the door in the event that the electronics are inoperable. This can happen when there is a power outage, battery failure, fire or even network failure. The mechanical lock serves as a backup and is operated by a mechanical key that retracts the latch to allow entry. This action bypasses the electronic portion of the access control device and provides the user with full, unrestricted access.
Unfortunately, standard mechanical cylinders are easy targets for physical attacks – picking, drilling, pulling, bumping – and unauthorized key duplication. Unless the key is protected by a patent, individuals can circumvent the system and copy keys easily.
In some cases, unauthorized entry can go undetected for weeks or even months. In these cases, clients lose the control and accountability they rely on. Loss of control because users can no longer manage who has access, when, or which spaces they have access to. Accountability is lost because there is no audit trail.
Therefore, most EAC systems are only as secure as the cylinders used in mechanical locks.
Easy to Install
Accessibility/Convenience
Initial Investment Cost
Lifetime Cost
High security mechanical key systems can result in high life cycle costs if not managed properly. For example, facility managers may be forced to change locks and change keys frequently if keys are continually lost or unaccounted for.
Intelligent and electronic systems enable system administrators to quickly respond to security threats, lost or stolen keys, or personnel changes without the added cost of replacing locks and keys. Changes to access rights can be done in seconds using any smart device.
Access Tracking
If your customers are interested in monitoring who enters the door and when, they will want to choose an electronic or smart key system. Since the electronic system relies on a PIN, card or fob assigned to a person, it is easy to track usage.
The keys and cylinders used in smart key systems provide access information by recording the date and time of every event (every time it is locked or unlocked), including all unauthorized attempts. The most powerful systems store up to 10,000 events in lock and key.
Conclusion
In fact, most facilities can use all three types of systems, and the right solution for some applications may work against expectations. This is where your expertise and experience come in.
For example, you might want a highly secure government agency to opt for a sophisticated EAC system. However, if the facility already uses an extensive video surveillance system and has guards at multiple access points, the project manager may opt for a smart key system to prevent physical attack on the lock cylinder itself.
Meanwhile, municipal utilities may opt for smart locking systems over strictly mechanical systems because they can issue electronic keys that allow employees or contractors to use perimeter padlocks to prevent vandalism or vandalism. Such systems allow administrators to carefully audit sites for compliance with government risk assessment requirements.
In the end, since budget is often the main factor, the right solution depends on understanding the customer’s problem and addressing their security goals. Locksmiths must weigh the client’s security needs against the initial and life cycle costs of a high-security system, and make sure to educate the client on the pros and cons of all available options.
