Access control is a security approach intended to regulate the ability of a person or a service to access resources in a controlled environment. Its core purpose is to minimize risk to a business or organization. Access control can be Physical and logical. Physical access control limits access to physical locations and physical assets, while logical access control limits connections to computer architecture and digital assets.
Near Field Communication (NFC) is a standards-based, short-range wireless connectivity technology designed to provide fast, easy and convenient wireless connectivity and is used in areas such as access control, information sharing and contactless payments. As a wireless connectivity technology, NFC stands out in its short reception distance. While this may seem to limit performance, this short-range transmission is a plus for secure data transfer. This opens up a range of access control possibilities.
NFC access control solutions can be deployed in similarly styled RFID-based access control elements such as badges, keys, or fobs. But one of the features is providing Access Control within a ‘bring your credential device’ model. The Access Control function remains the same as an RFID-based Access control model, but the data to be transmitted is done so securely over short distances. However, instead of a smart card, badge or key fob, any NFC-enabled device, such as a tablet or mobile phone can be used to facilitate access control: this is an access control model often used within cloud-based networks and systems when consuming resources over the Internet.
Cutting-edge NFC door access control systems are managed through apps installed on smartphones, which act as the key or credential for an NFC-equipped reader. When the mobile device is brought into proximity to the NFC reader, once communication is established, authenticating and access are granted. Coupled with the fact that the NFC access control model does not require search and pair procedures like Bluetooth, and other methods, to establish connectivity. The ‘no special software’ value increases the appeal of NFC access control strategies.
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