Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a rapidly growing from where it stated way back in 1950’s at a workshop in Dartmouth College. One area that has seen a significant impact in recent years is physical access control. The physical access control systems are advancing, with the integration of AI technology providing security and convenience to businesses and SMEs.
Also, according to a report by Fortune Business Insights, the global access market size is projected to reach $25.22 billion in 2027, at a CAGR rate of 8.7%.
In this article, we will explore the impact of AI on physical access control and how it is being used to improve both security and convenience.
Latest development in physical security
Security technology is in a constant state of development to defend against emerging threats. Various technologies such as network security, cloud security, and application security that employ techniques such as authentication and threat detection are currently available. However, security breaches still happen and many organizations are not adequately prepared. The future of security is expected to be an advanced and intelligent system.
What is physical access control?
To begin with, physical access control is the use of technology to grant or deny access to buildings, rooms, or other secure areas. It involves the use of various systems and devices such as keycards, pins, and biometric authentication methods to ensure that only the right individuals gain access. It is an important aspect of security for SMEs or companies as it helps to protect sensitive information, prevent unauthorized access, and protect physical access.
Table: Components of Physical Access Control System
Component | Description |
|---|---|
Credentials | Methods individuals use to prove their identity and gain access, such as key cards, smart cards, or biometrics |
Access Control Devices | Devices that read and verify credentials, including card readers, biometric scanners, keypads, turnstiles |
Access Control Panels/Controllers | Central units that manage and control the access control system, validate credentials, and make access decisions |
Locks and Door Hardware | Electronic locks or door strikes that can be controlled remotely or through the access control panel |
Monitoring and Management Software | Software providing user interface to configure, monitor, and manage the access control system |
How is AI transforming physical access control?
AI improves physical security by providing more accurate and efficient measures than traditional systems. Here’s a quick comparison between the two types of access control technologies:
Traditional Access Control | AI-enabled Physical Access Control |
|---|---|
Manual monitoring and management required | Automated monitoring and management |
Limited scalability | High scalability |
A reactive approach to security | A proactive approach to security |
Limited integration with other systems | Advanced integration with other systems |
Limited ability to predict potential threats | Advanced ability to predict potential threats and security breaches |
Reliance on physical credentials (e.g., key cards) | Biometric authentication for enhanced security |
Limited analytics and reporting capabilities | Advanced analytics and reporting for actionable insights |
Manual configuration and updates | Dynamic and self-learning capabilities for continuous improvement |
Fixed rules and access control policies | Adaptive and dynamic access control based on real-time risk assessment |
Limited ability to detect and respond to anomalies | Intelligent anomaly detection and immediate response capabilities |
Potential for human error in access control management | Reduced human error through automated processes |
Leveraging AI to improve physical access control
AI technology is transforming physical security in several ways:
- Security Improvements: Using AI in physical access control improves security by using advanced biometric authentication methods like facial recognition or fingerprint scanning, making it more difficult for unauthorized access.
- Threat Detection: AI revolutionizes physical access control through threat detection using machine learning algorithms to detect and respond to potential security threats, such as triggering an alarm or alerting security personnel for attempted break-ins, preventing unauthorized access and protecting sensitive information and assets.
- Adaptive Systems: AI access control systems can integrate with building management systems for comprehensive security and adapt to user behavior, such as adjusting lighting and temperature based on time of day and user preference.
- Remote Management: AI and IoT integration allow for remote management and monitoring of physical access control systems, enabling administrators to grant/revoke access, monitor logs, and receive alerts of security breaches.
- Convenience for users: AI-enabled access control systems offer improved convenience for users by eliminating the need for physical keys or cards. Users can gain access using fingerprints or facial recognition, improving the overall experience.
Finally, AI-based systems can continuously learn from past data and experiences to improve the accuracy and efficiency of the physical access control system over time. This allows for a more secure and convenient system that adapts to the changing needs of the organization over time.
What does the future look like?
The future of physical access control is likely to be characterized by continued advancements in AI and biometric technology.
“The pace of progress in artificial intelligence is incredibly fast. Unless you have direct exposure to groups like Deepmind, you have no idea how fast—it is growing at a pace close to exponential.” – Elon Musk
Key trends shaping the future of physical access control include:
- Increased use of biometrics: Biometric authentication methods, such as facial recognition and fingerprint scanning, are becoming increasingly popular. As the technology improves, we can expect to see more widespread use of biometrics in the future, with more accurate and reliable methods of identification. The global biometric technology market is forecasted to reach $55.42 billion by 2027.
- Cloud-based solutions: As technology advances, physical access control systems are shifting towards cloud-based solutions. This shift allows organizations to manage and monitor their systems remotely, making it more convenient to keep them updated and secure.
- Multi-factor authentication: Instead of relying on just one method of identification, such as a keycard or PIN code, users will be required to provide multiple forms of identification before they are granted access. This will make it more difficult for unauthorized individuals to gain access.
- Privacy-enhancing: As data collection increases, privacy will be crucial in physical access control systems. Systems will be designed to protect personal data and obtain user consent before sharing.
Conclusion
"Artificial intelligence will reach human levels by around 2029. Follow that out further to, say, 2045, we will have multiplied the intelligence, the human biological machine intelligence of our civilization a billion-fold."
Artificial intelligence is having a significant impact on physical access control, with the ability to improve security and convenience for users and SMEs. However, it is important to consider the potential challenges such as protecting personal data and maintaining system security. As technology continues to evolve, it will be important to strike a balance between the benefits and risks of using AI in physical access control. Oloid’s cutting-edge technology incorporates the latest AI technologies to provide a safe, secure, and efficient physical access control system.
FAQs
What is a physical access control system (PACS)?
A PACS is a security solution that regulates and manages access to physical spaces using credentials, devices, panels/controllers, locks, and management software.
How does AI transform physical access control?
AI enhances physical access control by automating monitoring, enabling proactive security measures, integrating systems, predicting threats, and using advanced analytics.
What are the advantages of AI-enabled physical access control over traditional systems?
AI-enabled systems offer automated management, scalability, proactive security, advanced integration, prediction of threats, and biometric authentication.
Can AI-enabled physical access control detect anomalies and respond immediately?
Yes, AI-enabled systems have intelligent anomaly detection capabilities and can respond promptly to potential security breaches or suspicious activities.
How does AI improve the overall efficiency of physical access control systems?
AI improves efficiency by reducing manual tasks, minimizing human error, providing real-time analytics, enabling dynamic access control, and facilitating automated updates and configuration.
