Access control is a form of data security that dictates who is permitted to access or indulge in company resources, company information, and much more. Access control provides a way for companies to ensure that users are correctly identified and provided with the proper amount of access. Various access control examples can be found in security systems, including locks, fences, biometric systems, motion detectors, doors, and so forth. Let’s take a look at how access control systems work, and how Link Labs could play a giant role in the safety and security within the manufacturing industry!
How Does Access Control Work?
Access control systems work by identifying users through unique PIN numbers, usernames, passwords, and other forms of identification. The control system then determines what level of access will be granted to the employee based on the credentials programmed into the system under their specific identifier.
As of now, there are four primary types of access control models. Each of these different models determine the level of access that will be permitted to the user. These models are as follows:
Mandatory Access Control
Mandatory access control is the most restrictive control model. Generally, the only employee that will have this level of access is the system owner. Mandatory access control is used for organizations that require maximum security, with credentials limited to a sole, high-level operator.
Role-Based Access Control
This form of access control is generally the most popular control model. Role-based access control provides access based on the position of the employee. For instance, a production manager might have access to different areas and assets than a logistics manager, depending on what they require in order to fulfill their job.
Discretionary Access Control
Discretionary access control is the least restrictive control model. Once granted access, each user is provided with the same level of control. To use the above example, this means that the production and logistics manager would both have access to all resources, regardless of whether they are required to utilize all of them within their position in the company.
Attribute-Based Access Control
Attribute-based access control assigns or denies access to users based on a set of rules and limitations that have been previously defined by the owner or system administrator. The freedom of customization is what makes this method such a popular choice.
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Why is Access Control Important?
Preventing Unauthorized Access
The primary importance of an access control system is to protect manufacturers from unauthorized access. As indicated above, many of these systems are equipped to bar individuals from areas in which they are not supposed to be and restrict access to necessary areas.
Tracking the Movement of Individuals
Beyond initial access protection, access control also provides businesses with the ability to track the movement of individuals inside physical locations. In this manner, access control systems help determine the identity of anyone entering or exiting the building or a designated area, providing a record in case that access is misused or otherwise taken advantage of.
Reinforcing Data Security
Access control systems don’t just protect physical assets, either. This technology also keeps important information and data from falling into the wrong hands by reinforcing the security of the systems housing that data. In this way, a strong access control system can help businesses reduce the possibility of data leakage from both internal and external sources.
Enhancing Worker Safety
Access control systems can also function to enhance worker safety. Within manufacturer facilities, there are any number of machines or other equipment that require specialized training to operate. With access control, workers without the proper credentials can be barred from operating this equipment, preventing them from putting themselves and their coworkers at risk due to improper operations.
Now that you understand just how important access control systems are, the next step to take is to ensure that you are choosing the proper access control system!
How Link Labs Can Help
At Link Labs, we strive to assist all types of industries with their technological needs. Although Link Labs does not provide an access control system from a security perspective, Link Labs offers badge tags that help with employee management. These badges are to be worn by employees, and they provide businesses with the ability to monitor where employees are throughout the facility. Further, we provide asset tracking solutions that can otherwise alert operators when assets are removed from their designated location, reducing theft and potentially dangerous misuse. Book a demo today to learn more about how Link Labs and AirFinder can benefit you!
