Complete guide to commercial keyless door entry systems for businesses

What is a keyless entry system for business?

A keyless entry system for commercial buildings is a type of access control system that uses authentication methods such as access codes, passwords, and biometrics to restrict or grant access to a property. It replaces traditional locks and keys with more sophisticated physical security measures so businesses can better monitor who enters the premises.

How does a keyless door entry system work?

Keyless building entry systems offer convenience and security to businesses. They work by using a combination of access codes, passwords, biometrics and other authentication methods to control who has access to the building and when.

When an employee or visitor arrives at the premises, they must provide their credentials to gain access. Depending on the system, this could be a code, password, key fob or biometric information such as fingerprint or retina scans. Once the credentials are verified, the system will grant access to the building.

The keyless building entry system also allows businesses to monitor and manage who is accessing their premises in real time. By utilizing a visitor management system to log when an employee or visitor enters the building, companies can monitor who’s accessing their property. Some keyless entry systems incorporate additional features such as alarm systems and video cameras to further enhance security.

Components of a commercial keyless entry system

Business keyless entry solutions typically consist of several components to ensure they operate correctly, including electronic or magnetic commercial strikes, or office keyless door locks, a proximity reader or sensor and credentials for each user to verify their identity.

Door locks for keyless systems

The locks used in keyless systems are typically electronic or magnet-based and can be operated remotely. Electronic door entry systems require a power source to operate the locking mechanism. Depending on the type of keyless door system, presenting an authorized credential will either trigger the door to receive power to unlock or temporarily disconnect the power source to allow entry. They are designed to be as secure and tamper-proof as possible, with reinforced deadbolts and other security measures.

Proximity reader or sensor

A proximity badge reader system verifies the identity of each user before granting access. It typically consists of an antenna, processor board, LED display, keypad and other components. Installed near the door, it reads each user’s credentials and communicates with the access control system to verify if they are authorized to enter.

Credentials

The type of credential used in a keyless entry system for commercial buildings will depend on the system itself. Key cards and fobs are some of the most common credentials used with keyless door entry systems. PIN access codes, passwords, biometrics and mobile apps can also be used as authentication methods. The main benefit of keyless door entry security systems for business is that access codes can be easily changed, if needed. More advanced biometric access control credentials, such as fingerprints or retinas, are unique to each individual, offering a higher level of security.

Benefits of keyless door entry systems for business and commercial use

Keyless entry systems offer many benefits for businesses and commercial premises. From increased security to cost savings, here are some of the main benefits:

Increased security

Keyless systems provide an extra layer of security to ensure that only authorized personnel can access the building. In addition, by logging when each user enters and exits, businesses can better monitor and manage the flow of people on their premises.

Convenient, keyless access control management

Keyless entry for businesses allow for managers to easily control who has access to the building, when they have access and where they can go. Plus, keyless door access means users no longer need to fumble with keys or carry around multiple keys to access different doors. Mobile access control makes it even easier for companies to manage their security without compromising convenience, as users can simply use their own smartphone as their credential.

Cost savings

Keyless systems can also help businesses save money in the long run. By eliminating the need for physical keys, companies don’t have to worry about key duplication and replacement costs. When an employee leaves the company or a tenant moves out, there’s no need to retool all the locks. Mobile credentials further eliminate the cost of purchasing and maintaining key fob access control systems or key card systems.

Remote access

Electronic keyless door access control has the added benefit of remote access and the ability to control doors from anywhere. With remote keyless entry systems, users can grant access to their premises even when they’re not there. This offers an extra level of convenience and security for businesses with multiple locations or those who work remotely.

Enhanced customer experience

Commercial keyless door locks can also provide an enhanced customer experience by offering quick and secure access to the premises, without the need for 24/7 staffing. This is particularly beneficial for businesses that rely on visitors or customers, such as hotels, gyms and other public facilities. Plus, offering the latest technology makes a great impression on visitors and to any commercial property.

Improved convenience

Commercial keyless entry systems can provide enhanced convenience for users, as they eliminate the need to carry around a physical key. This is particularly useful for businesses with a large number of employees or visitors accessing the building daily.

Greater control

Business keyless entry solutions also allow companies to control who has access to the building more efficiently. With the option to add schedules to doors and adjust permissions levels for individual users, business keyless entry systems help maintain stricter security without the hassle. In addition, businesses can easily issue new users access and quickly revoke access if necessary.

Increased flexibility

Keyless door systems for commercial buildings are also highly customizable, allowing businesses to tailor the system to their specific needs. From access control settings to user credentials, businesses can easily customize their keyless entry solutions to meet their individual needs.

Better accessibility

Keyless door entry solutions also provide improved accessibility for disabled users, as they can easily be operated remotely. Instead of having to struggle with physical keys, people with limited mobility can simply use the remote access system to enter the building.

Audit trails

Keyless electronic door entry security systems often come with various features that enable businesses to track who enters and exits the building. Having detailed audit trails of user access can help businesses monitor activity and ensure that their premises remain secure. And if something does happen, the audit trails can provide valuable evidence for any investigation.

Reduced liability

Having a keyless system in place can also help reduce businesses’ liability for any security breaches. These types of commercial door entry systems help companies demonstrate due diligence when it comes to protecting their premises and the people who use them.

Improved scalability

Keyless door entry security systems can be easily scaled up or down to meet the changing needs of a business or commercial application. As a result, companies can easily adjust their security system as needed without investing in new hardware, making keyless access control locks a cost-effective option for businesses of any size.

Ease of integration

Keyless security systems built on open architecture are also relatively easy to integrate with other access control systems, such as security cameras and alarm systems. Businesses can easily create a comprehensive security system that meets their needs with the help of a security system integrator.

Easy installation

Finally, keyless entry systems for commercial use are generally easy to install and maintain. Many systems come with user-friendly software that makes it easy for businesses to configure and manage their security systems. This helps control installation and setup fees, as well as any additional maintenance costs.

Types of keyless access control systems

As an ever-increasing number of businesses opt for a keyless door entry system, the options available for companies to choose from have also grown. Today, many different types of keyless entry systems for commercial buildings and credential choices are available, each offering its own unique set of features and benefits. 

Some advanced systems can even support multiple credential types and multi-factor authentication for commercial keyless entry on a single reader, letting companies mix and match their access methods. In addition, electronic commercial door entry systems can log each unlock attempt, helping businesses maintain a record of access and credential activity. 

Take a look at the different types of keyless entry system credentials below to understand which door access solution might be best for your business:

Proximity access control cards

Proximity access control cards are small, plastic cards that contain information about the user, such as their name and photo. To gain access to a building, the user needs to hold the card near an access control reader. The information stored on the card can be easily updated or changed, allowing businesses to manage user access efficiently.

Among the oldest and most popular types of keyless entry commercial doors for businesses, prox cards are cost-effective and reliable. However, they are not always the most secure, with some older cards lacking security features that allow them to be easily compromised. Companies should opt for encrypted smart cards if they need better security for business keyless access control.

Key fobs

Key fobs are small devices that contain the same user information as proximity access control cards. To gain access to a building, users simply need to hold the fob up near an access control RFID door reader. The advantage of key fobs is that they can be easily attached to a keychain or lanyard, making them convenient and easy to carry.

One of the drawbacks of key fob keyless entry for businesses is managing the stock of credentials. Each new employee will need to be handed a fob, and businesses will be responsible for ordering enough credentials for everyone. Fobs are also easily lost or stolen, which can be a liability if the user doesn’t report the loss before your security team is able to deactivate the key fob.

Keypad-based commercial door entry system

Another popular type of keyless entry system uses PIN codes. A keypad-based commercial entry system requires users to enter a code on a keypad to gain access. The code can be easily changed, allowing businesses to effortlessly manage the security of their building. More advanced keypad reader options allow businesses to customize the PIN code for each user in the keyless building entry system. 

Keypad access control is a popular choice, especially when the building has a multi-factor authentication commercial door entry system. For example, a keypad could be combined with a card reader, requiring both the user’s card and code to gain access.

While a convenient option, keypads can be relatively easy to hack if they don’t have powerful security features. Therefore, businesses should invest in these keyless commercial door locks only if they come with capacitive touch keys, anti-spoofing security features and the ability to customize longer-digit PINs.

Biometric electronic door entry systems

Biometric electronic door entry systems use the user’s unique physical features, such as fingerprints or iris scans, to grant access. As biometrics are unique to each individual, these types of locks offer the highest level of security.

Like keypad systems, biometrics are often used in tandem with other access control systems, such as card readers, making it even more challenging for unauthorized users to gain access.

Mobile or app-based commercial keyless door entry

Mobile or app-based keyless building entry systems are a relatively new type of access control that allows users to open doors using their smartphones. The system is paired with an app that allows users to unlock the door with a tap or swipe of their phone.

This type of access control is highly secure, as the app can be configured to require additional authentication steps, such as a PIN code or biometric scan already built into the phone. Smartphones are not as easily compromised as key cards and fobs, and people are more likely to report a phone lost or stolen right away. 

It is also a highly cost-efficient keyless door entry system because businesses don’t have to invest in cards, fobs or keypads. Users aren’t as likely to misplace their phones as they would a card or fob. Another benefit of this type of keyless door entry system technology is that users can receive their access credentials right away without having to come into the office. Similarly, access can be revoked just as easily with a few clicks in the access control management software.

Video-integrated keyless door lock system

A video-integrated keyless building entry system comes with a camera for better situational awareness. This type of commercial door entry system might include all-in-one readers with built-in video cameras, or give security teams the option of integrating the keyless lock system with a separate video security system. The benefit of a video feed is that it lets operators view who is at the door before granting access. This is an especially useful feature for businesses that require extra security or businesses that don’t have 24/7 lobby security or reception staff.

Adding video to office keyless door lock systems increases security at the building. A fully integrated or all-in-one solution can be configured to require additional authentication steps and allow security teams to visually verify that somebody is who they say they are. Furthermore, the system can be set up to trigger alerts or notifications when the door is unlocked.

Hybrid keyless door entry systems for business

When it comes to keyless door entry, commercial building owners must consider if they have an existing access control system on the premises. Hybrid keyless building entry systems are a good option for upgrading the system without replacing the entire security infrastructure.

A hybrid commercial door entry system allows businesses to get more advanced security features and technology without the headache of a massive renovation. Using door readers that leverage the existing wiring, businesses can upgrade to touchless access control mobile credentials and create a remote door entry system for more convenient management.

Exit devices for commercial keyless door entry systems

One of the drawbacks of keyless door entry for commercial and office buildings is that if there is an emergency, users may not be able to exit the building. To mitigate this issue, building codes usually require businesses to invest in exit devices that provide an emergency override for keyless commercial door locks.

It should be noted that local building codes determine the specifications of the required exit devices, including where they should be used. They are usually installed on the inside of doors, ensuring that occupants can exit the building quickly if necessary.

How to choose keyless electronic door entry systems

When selecting an electronic door entry system for a business or commercial application, there are several factors to consider. Not every building will need the most advanced commercial keyless door entry system on the market. When comparing solutions, it’s important to consider the most important factors that will impact your building, such as:

Security

Different types of access control systems offer different levels of security. Depending on the application, businesses may need to invest in a more secure system. For example, high-risk areas may require stricter security, such as a biometric keyless entry system or multiple authentication types. Public spaces, on the other hand, need to still be easily accessible, and should have a more convenient option, such as a touchless or mobile keyless door entry system.

Durability

Electronic door entry systems need to be secure and durable, as they will be used frequently and must last for a long time. Therefore, looking for systems designed to withstand harsh weather and heavy traffic is vital. This is especially true for keypad door entry systems, where traditional buttons can quickly wear out and make it easier for unauthorized users to guess the PIN code.

Installation requirements

The installation of an electronic door entry system with the help of an access control system installer will vary depending on the type of system and the building. For example, some systems require complex wiring, while some keyless door locks rely on battery power. If you have an existing system, look for keyless door entry systems that can use the existing wiring infrastructure to minimize installation costs.

Cost

The cost of electronic door entry security systems can vary significantly depending on the features and security offered. It is vital to find a system that fits within budget while still providing the necessary security and features.

Ease of use

With keyless entry for business, the system should be both user-friendly and secure. A keyless entry for commercial doors solution that can support multiple credential types on a single reader system makes granting access to authorized users easy, as they can choose the method that works best for them without compromising your security.

Compatibility

Another factor to consider is whether the system is compatible with existing security protocols, such as those used for alarm systems, commercial video security and other access control devices, as well as any other technologies that are already in place. Otherwise, you run the risk of having to replace your security systems down the road.

Maintenance

Proper maintenance of a keyless system is essential to ensure that the system remains secure and reliable. Systems should be regularly inspected, tested and calibrated to ensure they function correctly. In addition, it is crucial to keep the system up-to-date with the latest software and firmware updates. Look for keyless building entry systems that leverage cloud-based access control for easy maintenance and automatic updates.

Customer support

Finally, looking for a keyless access control system from a vendor that offers comprehensive customer support is crucial. This includes access to knowledgeable technicians available 24/7 to provide technical support. Having a customer service team always ready is invaluable in ensuring that any issues with the system are quickly and efficiently addressed.

8 signs you need to update your building’s keyless entry system

When there are signs that the keyless building entry system is not performing as it should, it may be time to consider investing in a new system. Some common symptoms that your access control needs an upgrade include:

1. Personnel wasting too much time on security management

A common issue with keyless entry systems for business applications is that personnel spend too much time managing the system, including replacing credentials, setting up new users and issuing credentials for guests.

An upgraded system should automate many of these tasks and offer easy-to-use tools for managing personnel access. For example, mobile keyless entry for commercial doors should offer an app for remote management and automated credential renewal.

2. Frequent breakdowns or malfunctions

Another sign that a keyless building entry system may need an upgrade is if it experiences frequent breakdowns or malfunctions. This could be due to outdated hardware or software, or a lack of proper maintenance. In some cases, upgrading the system may be necessary to ensure reliability and integrity. Cloud-based (vs. on-premise security) keyless door entry systems can mitigate this issue with automatic software updates to give you access to the latest features with maximum uptime.

3. Susceptibility to hacking

An outdated keyless entry system may be more susceptible to hacking or unauthorized access. Always upgrade the system with the latest security software and firmware updates. Advanced keyless access control systems should also offer additional layers of security, such as multi-factor authentication, biometric authentication and end-to-end encryption.

4. Unmet user expectations 

If personnel cannot securely access the facility efficiently, it may be time to look for a new system. An improved keyless entry system should offer easy access and administration, intuitive user interfaces, automated features and mobile credentials via a smartphone app for remote keyless access. Doing so will help to ensure that expectations are met without compromising security or safety.

5. Log access is challenging

If it is difficult to track who has accessed the premises or if there are signs of unauthorized access, it may be time for an upgrade. The newest commercial keyless access systems offer real-time logging capabilities, which make it easy to audit who has accessed the building and when they entered. They also enable remote access logs, so security operators can view access activity and respond to incidents from anywhere.

6. Incompatible with required integrations

In some cases, the keyless entry office system may need to integrate with other security systems, such as video cameras, alarm systems and visitor management programs. If the current system cannot seamlessly integrate with your other software, hardware and business tools, it may be time to consider investing in a new system to facilitate these integrations.

7. Lack of remote access and control

Given the current safety protocols, it is essential to have keyless entry for commercial doors that offer remote access and control. Look for a remote keyless door entry system that offers a mobile app or web portal for easy access without having to be on-site. The management software should also allow you to unlock the door, issue or revoke credentials, send temporary access links and adjust door schedules remotely.

8. Managing multiple systems for each location

If the business has multiple facilities, managing separate entry systems for each location can be time-consuming and expensive. Especially if people need access to multiple facilities, they may need to carry different credentials for each location. Instead, look for a keyless entry system for commercial buildings that can be installed at multiple sites and offers centralized administration and monitoring. This will help reduce the time and money spent on managing multiple systems.

Investing in the best keyless door entry system for your business

Keyless entry systems for business applications should provide secure access, reliable performance and intuitive user experiences. If any of these criteria are not met, then it may be time to consider upgrading the system.

An upgraded keyless entry system should offer automated features, remote access and compatibility with other security systems. All these features will help to ensure that personnel can securely access the facility in an efficient manner, and that operators can effectively monitor access and triage incidents. Investing in a new keyless entry system for commercial buildings is an effective way to upgrade security and protect the business from potential threats.