An access control system decides who can open which door, and when. For an office it replaces keys with cards, fingerprints or face recognition, and keeps a record of every entry. It is one of the simplest ways to improve office security – and it can handle staff attendance at the same time.

How an office access control system works

Every controlled door has a reader outside, an electric lock (usually an electromagnetic lock), an exit button inside and a controller that decides whether to unlock. When someone shows a card, finger or face, the controller checks if that person is allowed through that door at that time, opens the lock and records the event.

Types of access control readers

1. RFID card or key fob

Affordable and quick. Cards can be shared or lost, so they suit offices that also have CCTV at the door and can disable lost cards easily.

2. PIN keypad

Low cost and no cards to manage, but codes are easily shared. Best used together with a card or for low-risk doors such as stores.

3. Fingerprint (biometric)

Cannot be lent to a colleague, so it works well for attendance too. Can struggle with very dry, dusty or worn fingers – common on factory floors.

4. Face recognition

Touch-free, fast and difficult to cheat. Good for busy entrances and offices that want hygienic, contactless entry. Read our comparison of fingerprint vs face attendance machines.

Benefits for your office

  • Only authorised people enter – visitors and former staff cannot walk in.
  • Different access for different rooms – for example, only IT staff can open the server room.
  • Time-based rules – doors can stay locked after office hours or on Sundays.
  • Entry records – see who entered which door and when.
  • Attendance in one step – many devices export attendance reports for payroll.
  • No lock changes – when someone leaves, simply delete their access.

How to choose the right system

  • Number of doors: a single main door can use a standalone device; multiple doors are easier with a networked controller and software.
  • Number of users: check the device capacity for faces, fingers and cards.
  • Environment: outdoor or dusty areas need weatherproof readers; face recognition suits factories where fingerprints wear out.
  • Fire safety: doors should unlock automatically during a fire alarm, with an emergency break-glass switch.
  • Power backup: connect locks and controllers to a UPS or battery so doors keep working during power cuts.
  • Integration: link with CCTV and a video door phone for complete entry security.

Frequently asked questions

Can one device handle both access control and attendance?

Yes. Most biometric access devices record attendance as staff enter, and the software exports reports for payroll.

What happens during a power cut?

With a battery or UPS backup the system keeps working. Electromagnetic locks release when power is completely lost, so people are never locked in.

Can I add more doors later?

Yes, if you choose a networked controller. Plan cabling for future doors during the first installation.

SKB IT Solutions supplies and installs access control and biometric systems in Gurgaon, Delhi, Noida and Faridabad. Planning this in Gurgaon, Delhi or anywhere in NCR? Contact SKB IT Solutions or call/WhatsApp +91-9717575348.