An access control mechanism is a means of safeguarding the security by detecting and preventing unauthorized access and by permitting authorized access in an automated system. There are two different types of access control mechanisms: user-based and host-based.
The purpose of access control is to grant entrance to a building or office only to those who are authorized to be there.
The access control system is an electronic system which utilises electronic keys (the tags) to release door locks. The tag, which can be carried by the user on their key ring, is presented in the Proximity of a reader, located adjacent to a door and communicates with that reader utilising encoded radio waves.
It is a fundamental component of security compliance programs that ensures security technology and access control policies are in place to protect confidential information, such as customer data.
Seven main categories of access control: Directive, deterrent, preventative, detective, corrective, compensating, and recovery.