December 11, 2023

The Importance of Multi-Factor and Multiple Credentials in Modern Security

blog | Credentials

In our technologically advanced era, managing security is more multifaceted than ever before. With the rapid proliferation of different credential types, the emphasis on a robust security management system has become paramount.

 

Diverse Credential Types in the Modern Age

Today, we’re not just dealing with usernames and passwords. There’s a whole gamut of credentials:

QR Codes: Often used for visitors and vendors, they provide quick, time-bound access.
Legacy Proximity Technology: While older, these are still in use in many systems.
Biometrics: With options like fingerprint, facial recognition, voice, and iris scans, biometrics provide a more personalized form of security.
Cutting-Edge Tech: Newer technologies, such as Bluetooth and NFC mobile credentials, are gaining traction due to their convenience.

Managing Multiple Credentials for Individuals

Imagine an individual who requires access to multiple areas, each with a different credential type. A modern security management system should efficiently manage and distribute these credentials. For instance, an employee may need a QR code for visitor access, a fingerprint for the main office, and NFC for a secured lab. Consolidating and managing these in a centralized location ensures that security is tight but not cumbersome for the end-user.

Visitor Management and Non-Interference

When it comes to visitors, it’s essential to ensure their credentials don’t overlap or interfere with those of regular employees or students. A visitor might only need temporary access, best served by a QR code. This transient nature demands a system that can issue and revoke these credentials seamlessly, ensuring no unwanted residual access.

Biometrics and Privacy

With the sensitivity of biometric data, privacy is of utmost concern. Sometimes, it’s prudent to separate these from other credentials, storing them either on local access control devices or separate secure servers. This segregation ensures that even if one system is compromised, biometric data remains untouched.

Complexities in Commercial Real Estate

Consider a commercial building with multiple tenant companies. Each company will have its unique security credentials, and then there’s a shared credential for communal spaces. Juggling these without overlap is a challenge. It’s imperative that when an individual presents their credentials, the system flawlessly identifies them and grants the appropriate access.

The Modern Security Imperative

In conclusion, as the lines between physical and digital spaces blur and the types of credentials multiply, the importance of a capable security management system grows exponentially. Such a system must not only manage diverse credentials but also ensure that they operate harmoniously, without conflicts. As technology propels us forward, it’s crucial that our security systems aren’t just keeping up but are always a step ahead, ensuring that every individual can securely access the spaces and information they need without unnecessary hindrance.