Best Secure Access Control Systems 2025

What are Secure Access Control Systems?

Secure access control systems provide all the necessary hardware (keycards, card readers, and wiring) and software that manage access to a physical workspace. They give organizations the ability to protect the workplace while granting access to employees who need it.

These systems are used by organizations to secure assets in both physical and digital environments. Businesses using secure access control systems can ensure that users, employees, and administrators can always access the parts of the environment they are supposed to, and can’t access the rest. Secure access control systems give organizations better visibility into their infrastructure, and they give administrators the peace of mind that their system is secure.

Secure access control systems are well suited for companies that store sensitive data in a physical location or have large workspaces that are difficult to secure. On a smaller scale, secure access control systems can be used to manage access to meeting spaces (as opposed to the entire office or building) or hot desking.

Secure Access Control System Features

Secure access control systems include the following features:

• Cloud-based data storage and management
• Smartphone access
• Visitor management
• Biometric authentication
• Badge printing capabilities
• Remote lock management

Secure Access Control Systems Comparison

Finding the right secure access control system will depend on the size and potential for growth of the organization needing the service. Some access control systems are better suited for companies with a single site and a smaller number of employees, while others are better suited for multi-site companies with a larger workforce.

Prospective buyers should be aware of the structural alterations related to installing a secure access control system. Most secure access control systems will require some amount of wiring. Some products are designed to minimize the amount of hardware needed for successful implementation, reducing the amount of structural changes.

Those looking for a secure access control system should also verify that the software will integrate with their current systems.

Pricing Information

Secure access control systems involve two types of pricing. There is the cost of the hardware (the card readers) and the cost of their installation. Buyers should consider potential expenses for structural changes to their workspace.

Pricing is also influenced by the software that manages the security hardware. Software costs are typically subscription-based and billed on a monthly or yearly cycle. For many products, choosing an annual subscription results in slightly lower prices.

Due to the unique nature of implementing a secure access control system, default pricing options are rarely available. Prospective buyers should request a price quote from the vendor.