Grosvenor Technology’s Managing Director, Colin Leatherbarrow reflects on the evolution of access control.

Over the past three decades, access control has undergone a remarkable metamorphosis.

Initially reliant on physical cards and readers, access control systems were characterised by the complexities of managing access permissions.

These advancements have further accelerated progress, which has changed the face of access control.

In an era where security threats are becoming more sophisticated, the need for advanced and integrated security solutions has never been more critical.

Currently, there are several key trends that are shaping the landscape of access control. 

Data reporting  

Access control goes beyond allowing or denying entry; it’s about making informed decisions.

The spotlight on data reporting in access control systems is pivotal.

This involves collecting and analysing data on entry and exit patterns, user behaviours, and system activities.

This data-driven approach empowers businesses to gain insights into potential vulnerabilities, adapt to changing threats, and address security gaps.  

For example, an unusual spike in access attempts during non-business hours could indicate a security threat that requires immediate attention.

This trend aligns with the broader growth of big data analytics, illustrating the increasing need for solutions that go beyond securing doors to providing operational insights.  

 IoT integration  

The Internet of Things (IoT) has transformed access control, introducing intelligence and adaptability.

In 2024, connected devices will continue to gain popularity, contributing to dynamic access management systems that stay one step ahead of security challenges.  

IoT integration in access control extends beyond traditional vital cards and PIN codes.

Smart devices, such as biometric scanners and mobile access applications, communicate with access control systems to provide secure and convenient entry.

This interconnected ecosystem enhances security and user experience, creating a more seamless and flexible access control environment.  

Touchless entry  

Touchless access is a vital access control technology trend for 2024, gaining popularity in public and commercial spaces for safety and convenience.

Touchless access control solutions combine security and safety with touchless entry, eliminating the need for physical contact or credentials at the door.  

The touchless access control trend includes improved physical signal configuration, enhanced motion-sensing technology, and the widespread adoption of biometric technology.

These advancements contribute to a secure and user-friendly access control environment, supporting the evolving needs of high-traffic areas and ensuring compatibility with the latest access control trends.  

BYOD  

The Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) trend has emerged as a catalyst for change in the sector.

This trend involves integrating mobile credentials onto personal smart devices like smartphones and smartwatches, revolutionising how we engage with access systems.

This shift offers heightened convenience and security, as individuals can utilise their smartphones for seamless and biometrically fortified access.

And the amalgamation of BYOD with the IoT within smart buildings presents an opportunity for these mobile devices to become integral components, not only for access but also for contributing real-time data that refines security and operational effectiveness.  

Remote management  

Remote security and access management have transformed security capabilities in recent years and are expected to be prominent going forward.

Remote management can be a game changer for business owners and security professionals alike, allowing administrators to control and adapt security systems without being on-site.  

Remote management of access control systems provides flexibility and agility in responding to dynamic security challenges. Administrators can monitor access logs, update user permissions, and respond to real-time security incidents, all from a centralised and remote interface.

This capability is particularly valuable for organisations with multiple locations or those embracing flexible work arrangements.  

 JanusC4 

Thirty years ago, Grosvenor Technology’s Access Control Division embarked on its journey with the launch of Janus and Siteguard in 1993.

Riding the technological wave of PC-based computing, these groundbreaking solutions revolutionised access management by replacing traditional locks and keys with digital access cards and sophisticated entry systems.   

It is difficult to overemphasise the leap from the era of analogue locks and keys – solutions that had existed for hundreds of years – to token-based access control, where users could allocate digital credentials, as well as individual permissions, access groups, and time zones.

As a result, Janus, fortified with robust security features, and Siteguard, tailored for larger premises, rapidly garnered acclaim, setting a new benchmark quickly adopted across the industry.  

These innovations not only simplified the management of access but also laid the foundation for future advancements.

The concept of digital access controls and credentials was a game-changer, eliminating the need for cumbersome key management while enhancing security by implementing cutting-edge authentication methods.  

And that forward-looking approach forms the foundations of the development of our future technology. 
 

How is Grosvenor staying one step ahead?  

Intuitive Control

The JanusC4 software is an advanced, user-friendly security management system that allows you to manage your building access AND your integrated security systems in one place, remotely or locally, including:   

• Access Control    
• CCTV    
• Intruder Alarms    
• Wireless Locks    
• Lift Control   

The JanusC4 ‘Monitor’ dashboard is designed to control all aspects of the integrated system, giving visibility, efficiencies, and convenience where other platforms cannot. While the functions are complex, the operation is not. 

JanusC4’s software allows you to fully customise user permission per login. This means every user can be given access to certain parts of your security system and integrations, making your JanusC4 software secure.  

JanusC4 can also help with GDPR compliance as it can be set to sync directly to the Active Directory of any business.

This means there are fewer admin requirements involved in maintaining the ‘Persons’ within JanusC4, as the automatic Active Directory synchronisation updates the personnel records daily.

This tightens security and gives you efficiencies that save time and money. JanusC4 also supports batch data uploads using Excel Spreadsheets in .CSV format.  

The JanusC4 hardware is modular and scalable by design, allowing you to easily add more doors without the need for re-engineering.

A single multi-controller can manage up to eight doors without the need for additional fused spurs and network points.

This offers cost savings and futureproofs a building in the event you want to expand and increase your security.   

JanusC4 supports all the leading and common Wiegand and OSDP reader devices from manufacturers, including:   

Facial Recognition    

Fingerprint    

Cards    

Bluetooth Credentials (mobile) 

With JanusC4, Grosvenor Technology has taken a step forward in Building Access & Security Management. Hygienic, controlled workspaces, with protocols like occupancy management and contactless entry, are more important than ever. This means the systems used to manage them need to be as effective as possible.  

The future now 

The access control landscape is in constant flux, fuelled by ever-evolving challenges and technological leaps.

To thrive in this dynamic environment, we must possess both innovation and foresight.

By understanding the “now” of access control, we can unlock the “next” and shape a safer future. 

At Grosvenor Technology, we’re continuously refining JanusC4, empowering you with dynamic systems that prioritise safety.

We actively anticipate the next generation of access control, harnessing the power of IoT, AI, and data analytics to redefine security standards. 

Organisations that embrace these advancements as essential, not optional, become industry leaders.

Touchless entry, remote management, and other innovations aren’t merely about keeping pace; they’re about actively shaping the future of security. 

This article was originally published in the April Edition of Security Journal United Kingdom. To read your FREE digital edition, click here.