Access Control and Cyber Security: Protecting the System Itself
Access control decides who may enter a building, so attackers who reach the system can open doors or erase records. Modern readers, controllers and servers sit on the network and need the same care as any other device. This guide covers the practical steps that make access control cyber security work.
Key takeaways
- Treat controllers, readers and servers as network devices that need patching and protection.
- Put access control on its own network segment and limit who can reach it.
- Use strong, individual admin accounts and remove them when people leave.
- Prefer encrypted card technologies and encrypted reader links.
- Keep backups and logs so you can recover and investigate.
Keeping the controller network apart
Place controllers, readers and the access server on a separate network segment or VLAN. Allow only the management computers and the sites that need to connect. Block internet access to controllers unless a cloud service requires it, and then allow only that connection. The access control best practices guide covers least privilege for users, which pairs with this network step.
Cards, phones and the data behind them
Older card types can be copied easily. Choose credentials and readers that use encryption and ask your supplier how keys are managed. Store user data with care: names, photos and entry history are personal data and need limited access.
Admin accounts, passwords and updates
Give every administrator their own login and remove default passwords at install. Use multi-factor sign-in where the software supports it. Apply firmware and software updates on a schedule, testing first on one door or a spare controller. Remove accounts the day someone leaves.
Logs, backups and recovery
Keep event and admin logs and review them for unusual activity such as many failed reads or changes made at odd hours. Back up the configuration and the user list, and test the restore. If a controller fails, you should be able to replace it without redoing every door by hand.
Securing your access control with Suraj Informatics
Suraj Informatics designs access control systems with network separation, managed accounts and reliable backups. Contact us to review your current set-up.
Access control cyber security: common questions
Can an access control system be hacked?
Any networked device can be attacked if it is poorly set up. Segmentation, updates and strong accounts reduce the risk.
Should access control use the office network?
It is safer on its own segment with limited access.
Are phone credentials safe?
They can be, when the system uses encrypted communication and the phone is protected by a lock screen.
How often should we update?
Follow the maker’s updates and review them at least quarterly, testing before wide rollout.
Review your access control security
Tell us how your controllers connect and who administers them, and we will suggest improvements.
Gates, weighbridges, yards, fleets and security on one platform. Book a free walkthrough with our team.
Book a demo
