SMART Access & identity 2024

TRENDS

Continued from page 6 Surveillance is the top integration priority for end users who repeatedly identify video as the most needed addition to their current system, with plans to invest in these solutions now and into the year. Lumard Groenewald BDM SA LTO Systems Africa As SALTO Systems is synonymous with innovative solutions, we expect some of our existing product platforms to grow an even stronger market presence with exciting new additions to feature in 2024. The continued widespread shift to cloud-based access control with cloud-based systems’ convenience, scalability, and cost-effectiveness is driving adoption across various sectors. SALTO will likely see this trend continue, leading to increased demand for its cloud-based access control solutions. SALTO Homelok is SALTO’s new cloud-based smart access solution that offers managers and owners a convenient and secure way to control access, improving security across all types of residential properties. We also expect to see a growing focus on mobile credentials as smartphones become increasingly ubiquitous, and we therefore expect the use of mobile credentials (e.g., NFC, Bluetooth) for access control to gain further traction. This aligns with our existing mobile app offerings and focuses on user convenience. Thanks to SALTO’s BLUEnet Wireless technology, SALTO launched t he wireless BLUEnet door controller series that provides a smarter and more flexible alternative to traditional access controllers. There is no need to replace wiring, which reduces installation expenses. Its universal SALTO compatibility allows it to seamlessly integrate with any access point designed to manage automatic door systems and access point connections (input/output), which optimises cabling. SALTO’s BLUEnet Wireless online and SVN-Flex capabilities deliver cost-efficient access control that extends security to non-door openings and doors that would otherwise be too difficult or expensive to secure. SALTO provides a range of wireless electronic access control devices that will become the norm by replacing the conventional controller-based wired access control in some cases, providing more flexibility and cost savings on installation, cabling, and unwanted routing. The current trends in access control are moving towards a more integrated and secure approach. This includes the convergence of physical and cyber security, implementing a zero-trust model, and using AI and machine learning to manage and analyse access rights and trends. This allows for dynamic adaptation of threat levels and access policies. Hybrid management models are being used, including Access Control as a Service (ACaaS) and on-premises solutions. Mobile credentials are becoming more prevalent, with mobile phones or wearable devices used for access control. Multi-factor authentication is also being implemented, requiring multiple forms of identification for access control, such as face recognition and licence plate recognition (LPR). System amalgamation or unification is another key trend, integrating various systems for a more streamlined approach. In summary, access control is evolving from a balance between convenience and security to a model that is both convenient and secure. This is achieved by unifying physical, logical, and cybersecurity models, allowing for access anytime, anywhere, by anyone, under a zero-trust model. Andrew Levell Smith, Senior Product Manager, Regal Distributors SA