As crime rates rise and workplaces continue adapting to remote and hybrid models, office security has never been more important. Businesses are not just protecting physical assets anymore—they're safeguarding sensitive data, employee well-being, and operational continuity. With growing technology integration, companies are moving beyond basic lock-and-key models to adopt smart access control systems that offer better visibility and control.
Modern office security also benefits from surveillance enhancements like Infrared Light Night Vision Cameras, which ensure reliable video monitoring even in low-light conditions. This combination of access control and intelligent monitoring creates a more secure and efficient office environment.
Why Access Control Systems Are Critical Today
Offices now handle more than just confidential files—they host digital infrastructure, proprietary technology, and vital records. As remote work increases, managing who enters and exits your office space becomes a security and liability concern. A well-designed access control system not only protects property but also helps companies comply with regulatory requirements and internal policies.
Benefits of Advanced Access Control
Prevents unauthorized access
Tracks employee movement
Reduces reliance on physical keys
Improves emergency response and lockdown capabilities
Incorporating surveillance features like Infrared Light Night Vision Cameras further enhances these benefits by enabling 24/7 visibility, especially in areas with low lighting or after-hours access.
Types of Access Control Systems
Access control systems can be classified into three primary types, each suitable for different office environments and budgets.
Key Card and FOB Systems
These are among the most common systems used in office buildings. Employees swipe a key card or fob to gain entry. The system logs each entry and can restrict access to specific areas based on role or clearance level.
Pros:
Easy to manage
Affordable
Scalable for growing teams
Cons:
Cards can be lost or shared
Limited two-factor security
Biometric Access Control
Biometric systems use fingerprints, retina scans, or facial recognition to allow entry. This eliminates the need for physical keys or cards and greatly reduces unauthorized access risks.
Pros:
Highly secure
Difficult to spoof
Great for sensitive departments
Cons:
Higher upfront cost
Potential privacy concerns
Mobile-Based Access Control
Employees use a secure mobile app to unlock doors using Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. This is particularly useful for remote workers and hybrid teams needing occasional access.
Pros:
Convenient and flexible
Allows remote access control
Supports integrations with HR and IT tools
Cons:
Relies on mobile device security
Can be affected by connectivity issues
Top Access Control Systems for Offices in 2025
Here are some of the best-performing access control systems currently available for office use.
1. Brivo Access
Brivo is a cloud-based solution offering real-time management and mobile access. It works well for medium to large offices looking for scalability.
Key Features:
Remote access control
Mobile credentialing
Video integration with Infrared Light Night Vision Cameras
2. HID Access Control
A long-time leader in security technology, HID offers both on-premise and cloud-based solutions. Their systems support biometric, mobile, and card access options.
Key Features:
Multiple authentication methods
Strong encryption
Integrates with video and alarm systems
3. Kisi
Designed for modern offices and coworking spaces, Kisi offers cloud-first access control with detailed user permissions and analytics.
Key Features:
Touchless mobile access
Scalable across locations
Compatible with Infrared Light Night Vision Cameras for enhanced surveillance
4. Openpath
Openpath is known for its sleek design and intuitive mobile interface. It uses encrypted Bluetooth signals for fast, touchless entry.
Key Features:
Remote unlock features
Custom access scheduling
Video event logs with smart camera integration
5. SALTO Systems
SALTO’s access control solutions combine hardware and software innovations, especially for enterprises needing a mix of offline and online access.
Key Features:
Works in no-internet zones
Audit trails and time-based access
Compatible with security upgrades like Infrared Light Night Vision Cameras
Pricing and ROI: Is It Worth the Investment?
Investing in a high-quality access control system varies in cost depending on the size of your office, the number of access points, and the desired security features. On average:
Basic Key Card System: $500–$1,500 per door
Biometric System: $2,000–$5,000 per door
Mobile & Cloud Systems: $1,500–$3,000 per door
Adding surveillance tools like Infrared Light Night Vision Cameras increases the cost slightly but delivers a strong return on investment through theft reduction, enhanced employee safety, and improved compliance with data and physical security policies.
How to Choose the Right System
When choosing an access control system for your office, consider the following factors:
Number of employees
Nature of your business (e.g., law firms, tech companies, etc.)
Hours of operation
Integration with existing security systems
Need for remote access
Always ensure your system can scale with your business growth and can incorporate surveillance tools like Infrared Light Night Vision Cameras, which provide visual confirmation of access attempts—both legitimate and suspicious.
Conclusion
Office security in 2025 requires more than just locked doors and alarms. It demands integrated solutions that offer real-time access control, surveillance, and reporting. From biometric scanners to mobile credentials and night-vision-enabled video verification, today’s systems provide unmatched peace of mind for business owners and facility managers.
If you're ready to enhance your security framework, consider professional Security Camera Installation Mississauga to ensure all your surveillance and access control components work seamlessly together.
FAQs
1. What is the best type of access control for small offices?
Key card or mobile-based systems are ideal for small offices due to lower cost and easy setup.
2. Are Infrared Light Night Vision Cameras necessary for daytime-only offices?
While not mandatory, they provide additional protection for after-hours events or in dimly lit areas.
3. How much does a basic access control system cost?
Basic systems can start as low as $500 per door but vary based on features and scalability.
4. Can I install access control systems myself?
While some systems offer DIY setup, professional installation ensures better reliability and compliance.
5. Do access control systems work without internet?
Some systems like SALTO support offline operation, but most cloud-based solutions require internet for full functionality.