The rapid development of science and technology is profoundly changing people’s work and life. It has greatly improved work efficiency and made daily life more convenient and comfortable, but it has also brought new security challenges, such as security risks caused by malicious use of technology. According to statistics, 76% of IT managers reported that threats to physical security systems have increased in the past year. At the same time, the average amount of loss has also increased significantly. According to an IBM report, in 2024, the average loss to enterprises for each data breach (such as business interruption, customer loss, subsequent response, legal and compliance costs, etc.) will be as high as US$4.88 million, an increase of 10% over the previous year.
As the first line of defense to protect the safety of corporate property and personnel, the core function of the access control system (granting designated users access to restricted areas while preventing unauthorized personnel from entering) may seem simple, but the data it processes is very important and sensitive. Therefore, the security of the access control system is of vital importance. Enterprises should start from the overall perspective and build a comprehensive security system, including ensuring the use of efficient and reliable physical access control systems to cope with the increasingly complex network security situation.
This article will explore the relationship between physical access control systems and network security, and share effective suggestions for enhancing the network security of access control systems.
The relationship between physical access control systems (PACS) and network security
The relationship between physical access control system (PACS) and network security
Whether your access control system is independent or connected to other security systems or even IT systems, strengthening the security of physical access control systems is playing an increasingly important role in ensuring the overall security of the enterprise, especially network security.Steven Commander, Director of Industry Regulatory and Design Consulting, HID Access Control Solutions Business (North Asia, Europe and Australia), pointed out that every link in the physical access control system involves the processing and transmission of sensitive data. Enterprises not only need to evaluate the security of each component itself, but also must pay attention to the risks that may be faced during the transmission of information between components to ensure end-to-end security protection of the entire chain.
Therefore, we recommend adopting a “basic-advanced” framework based on the actual security needs of the enterprise, that is, first establish a security baseline, and then gradually upgrade and optimize it to protect the access control system and network security.
1. Credentials (credential-card reader information transmission)
Basics: Credentials (including common access control cards, mobile credentials, etc.) are the first line of defense for physical access control systems. We recommend that companies choose credential technologies that are highly encrypted and difficult to copy, such as 13.56MHz smart cards with dynamic encryption to enhance accuracy; data stored on the card should be encrypted and protected, such as AES 128, which is a common standard in the current commercial field. During the identity authentication process, the data transmitted from the credential to the card reader should also use an encrypted communication protocol to prevent the data from being stolen or tampered with during transmission.
Advanced: The security of credentials can be further improved by deploying a key management strategy and choosing a solution that has been penetration tested and certified by a third party.
2. Card Reader (Reader-Controller Information Transmission)
Basic: The card reader is the bridge between the credential and the controller. It is recommended to select a card reader with a 13.56MHz smart card that uses dynamic encryption to enhance accuracy and is equipped with a secure element to store encryption keys. Information transmission between the card reader and the controller must be carried out through an encrypted communication channel to prevent data tampering or theft.
Advanced: Updates and upgrades to the card reader should be managed through an authorized maintenance application (not a configuration card) to ensure that the firmware and configuration of the card reader are always in a secure state.
3. Controller
Basic: The controller is responsible for interacting with credentials and card readers, processing and storing sensitive access control data. We recommend installing the controller in a secure tamper-proof enclosure, connecting to a secure private LAN, and disabling other interfaces that may pose risks (such as USB and SD card slots, and updating firmware and patches in a timely manner) when not necessary.
Advanced: Only approved IP addresses can connect to the controller, and ensure encryption is used to protect data at rest and in transit to further improve security.
4. Access Control Server and Client
Basic: The server and client are the main database and operating platform of the access control system, responsible for recording activities and enabling organizations to change and adjust settings. The security of both ends cannot be ignored. It is recommended to host the server and client in a secure dedicated virtual local area network (VLAN) and choose a solution that complies with the secure software development life cycle (SDLC).
Advanced: On this basis, by encrypting static data and data in transit, using network security technologies such as firewalls and intrusion detection systems to protect the security of servers and clients, and regularly perform system updates and vulnerability repairs to prevent hackers from exploiting system vulnerabilities to invade.
Conclusion
In today’s evolving threat environment, choosing the right PACS (physical access control system) partner is as important as choosing the right product.
In today’s digital and intelligent era, physical access control systems and network security are closely linked. Enterprises should start from the overall perspective, taking into account both physical and network security, and build a comprehensive security system. By choosing a PACS solution that meets higher security standards, you can build a solid overall security line for your enterprise.
Post time: May-09-2025
