--- title: What Is Access Control Entry and How Does It Enhance Your Security? description: Protect your business with access control entry. Discover how it secures your business, cuts false alarms, and speeds up emergency response with Sonitrol’s smart system. image: https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/hubfs/what-is-access-control-and-how-does-it-enhance-your-security.png --- [Blog](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/blog) [Categories](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/blog/what-is-access-control-and-how-does-it-enhance-your-security#) - [Verified Security Alarms](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/blog/topic/verified-security-alarms) - [Commercial Security](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/blog/topic/commercial-security) - [CCTV Video Surveillance](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/blog/topic/cctv-video-surveillance) - [Retail Security](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/blog/topic/retail-security) - [Security Tips](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/blog/topic/security-tips) - [Building Access Control](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/blog/topic/building-access-control) - [Office Workplace Security](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/blog/topic/office-workplace-security) - [Verified Video Surveillance](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/blog/topic/verified-video-surveillance) - [SonaVision Online Monitoring](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/blog/topic/sonavision-online-monitoring) - [Prevent False Alarms](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/blog/topic/prevent-false-alarms) - [Verified Alarms](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/blog/topic/verified-alarms) - [Security for Construction Sites](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/blog/topic/security-for-construction-sites) - [Construction Security](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/blog/topic/construction-security) - [Office Building Security](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/blog/topic/office-building-security) - [Security for Auto Dealerships](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/blog/topic/security-for-auto-dealerships) - [Restaurant Security](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/blog/topic/restaurant-security) - [Monitored Audio Alarms](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/blog/topic/monitored-audio-alarms) - [CCTV](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/blog/topic/cctv) - [Pharmacy and Drug Store Security](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/blog/topic/pharmacy-and-drug-store-security) - [Security Audit](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/blog/topic/security-audit) - [Small Business Security](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/blog/topic/small-business-security) - [Managed Access Control](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/blog/topic/managed-access-control) - [Prevent Copper Theft](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/blog/topic/prevent-copper-theft) - [Security for Fenced Compounds](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/blog/topic/security-for-fenced-compounds) - [False Alarms](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/blog/topic/false-alarms) - [Police Response to Sonitrol](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/blog/topic/police-response-to-sonitrol) - [Security for Marijuana Grow-Ops](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/blog/topic/security-for-marijuana-grow-ops) - [Crime Prevention Tips](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/blog/topic/crime-prevention-tips) - [Security Systems for Schools](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/blog/topic/security-systems-for-schools) - [CCTV Versus Sonavision](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/blog/topic/cctv-versus-sonavision) - [School Security](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/blog/topic/school-security) - [Security for Pharmacies](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/blog/topic/security-for-pharmacies) - [Security for Warehouses & Manufacturing](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/blog/topic/security-for-warehouses-manufacturing) - [Fenced Compounds](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/blog/topic/fenced-compounds) - [Government Building Security](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/blog/topic/government-building-security) - [Business Security](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/blog/topic/business-security) - [Keyless Entry](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/blog/topic/keyless-entry) - [Police Response Times](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/blog/topic/police-response-times) - [Professional Office Seccurity](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/blog/topic/professional-office-seccurity) - [Security for Place of Worship](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/blog/topic/security-for-place-of-worship) - [SonaVision](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/blog/topic/sonavision) - [Automotive](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/blog/topic/automotive) - [Dealerships](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/blog/topic/dealerships) - [Keyless Access Control](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/blog/topic/keyless-access-control) - [Retail](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/blog/topic/retail) - [Verified Reponse](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/blog/topic/verified-reponse) - [Copper Theft](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/blog/topic/copper-theft) - [Surveillance](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/blog/topic/surveillance) - [Workplace security](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/blog/topic/workplace-security) - [vandalism](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/blog/topic/vandalism) - [Access Control](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/blog/topic/access-control) - [Audio Intrusion](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/blog/topic/audio-intrusion) - [Equipment](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/blog/topic/equipment) - [Financial Institutions](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/blog/topic/financial-institutions) - [Legal Marijuana Grow-Op Security](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/blog/topic/legal-marijuana-grow-op-security) - [Offices](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/blog/topic/offices) - [Place of Worship](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/blog/topic/place-of-worship) - [commercial security audit](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/blog/topic/commercial-security-audit) - [Cannabis Security](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/blog/topic/cannabis-security) - [Church](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/blog/topic/church) - [Criminal Apprehension](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/blog/topic/criminal-apprehension) - [Guaranteed Commercial Security](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/blog/topic/guaranteed-commercial-security) - [Restaurants](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/blog/topic/restaurants) - [employee theft](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/blog/topic/employee-theft) - [Construction](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/blog/topic/construction) - [False Alarm Permits](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/blog/topic/false-alarm-permits) - [Fraud](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/blog/topic/fraud) - [Government Security](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/blog/topic/government-security) - [Technology](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/blog/topic/technology) - [criminal captures](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/blog/topic/criminal-captures) - [education](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/blog/topic/education) # What Is Access Control Entry and How Does It Enhance Your Security? ![Joe Wilson](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/hs-fs/hubfs/2024%20Website/Images/joe-blog-avatar.png?width=50&height=50&name=joe-blog-avatar.png) by [Joe Wilson](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/blog/author/joe-wilson) May 20, 2025 ![what-is-access-control-and-how-does-it-enhance-your-security](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/hs-fs/hubfs/what-is-access-control-and-how-does-it-enhance-your-security.png?width=512&height=290&name=what-is-access-control-and-how-does-it-enhance-your-security.png) Protecting your building, staff, and inventory isn’t optional, it’s mandatory. And if you’re relying on outdated security systems, you’re already behind. An [access control entry system](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/blog/enhancing-security-with-a-managed-access-control-system) is a modern security solution that regulates [who can enter a building](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/blog/who-gets-in-how-to-improve-commercial-security-with-managed-access-control) or restricted area, and *when*. It replaces traditional locks and keys with electronic credentials, giving you total control over every access point on the property. With Canadian small businesses seeing [crime rates spike up to 45% in 2024](https://www.cfib-fcei.ca/en/media/nearly-half-of-canadian-small-businesses-have-had-a-direct-experience-with-crime-in-the-past-year), protecting your business from day one isn't just smart, it's vital. Managed access control security helps you better control your access points, ensuring only the right people access have access to sensitive areas, exactly when they're allowed. ## **What is Access Control Entry?** Access control entry is a [digital security system](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/guaranteed-solutions-commitment-to-service) that manages who can enter physical spaces, and at what times. Instead of handing out keys to employees, for example, you assign [electronic credentials](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/blog/guide-to-the-different-types-of-security-systems-for-business) that can be updated, revoked, or customized as needed. Every access attempt is  checked against a centralized database. If the credentials match, access is granted. If not, it’s denied and you’re notified instantly. ## How Access Control Systems Work You need a system that will scale with your team and operations. Here’s how access control entry enhances your security: - **Keycards and Fobs:** Assignable credentials that are easily updated when staff changes. - **PIN Codes or Keypads:** Secure, resettable entry without the hassle of rekeying. - **Biometrics:** High-security identification for sensitive areas. [Each access attempt is recorded and checked against a central database](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/blog/protect-your-assets-with-managed-access-control) in real-time. If authorized, the system grants entry and logs the event both approved and denied. Unlike access systems that aren’t integrated, **Sonitrol’s advanced systems go further.** With integration, alarms are automatically disarmed for verified users, which minimizes costly [false alerts](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/blog/5-ways-to-prevent-false-alarms-at-your-business). You get full visibility and a complete audit showing who accessed which entry points and when. [![Myths about alarms and security companies](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/325814/11fb88e7-5c34-439a-86b3-88fb54afdbfc.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/325814/11fb88e7-5c34-439a-86b3-88fb54afdbfc) ## Why Your Business Can’t Afford to Skip Access Control Managing  vendors and budgets takes a lot of time, and your security system shouldn’t be a headache. Implementing a [verified access control system](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/blog/top-5-reasons-to-install-a-keyless-access-control-system) can take the stress of worrying right off your plate. Specifically, Sonitrol's verified access control systems are built to support you with: - **Day One Protection:** Secure the premises, even during construction or prior to move-in.. - **Budget-Friendly Efficiency:** Eliminate the need for rekeying or lock replacements. - **Employee, Customer, and Inventory Access :** Restrict high-value areas to authorized personnel only. - **Audit-Ready Reports:** Maintain compliance and reduce liability. - **Streamlined Credential Management:** Grant or  revoke credentials in seconds. ## Access Control Alone Isn’t Enough - You Need Layered Security Even the best access control system needs a backup plan. That’s why Sonitrol recommends a[layered security strategy](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/blog/guide-to-the-different-types-of-security-systems-for-business) that integrates multiple security technologies working together: - [**CCTV Video Surveillance**](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/video-surveillance-solutions)**:** Monitor critical areas in real time with [Sonitrol’s SonaVision](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/blog/business-security-the-power-of-sonavisions-intelligent-video-monitoring), which streams live footage to our (or the) monitoring center during a breach. - [**Audio Intrusion Detection**](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/audio-intrusion-security)**: **Captures sounds that cameras can’t, making it ideal for blind spots and early-stage break-ins. - [**24/7 Monitoring**](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/blog/the-importance-of-professional-remote-monitoring-for-your-security-system)**:** Every alarm is verified by a real person, reducing false alarms and ensuring quick emergency response. ## Why Sonitrol? Verified Security That Delivers Results Let’s look at the numbers: - **3% False Alarm Rate:** Far below the 95-98% industry average. - **3.5 Minute Police Response Time:** [Verified alarms](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/verified-alarm-solutions) get priority dispatch. - **188,000+ Criminal Apprehensions:** Proof that our systems work when it counts the most. Want to see proof in action? Learn why [businesses need more than basic security](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/feedback/sonitrol-audio-alarm-helps-stop-crime-canadian-tire) and how managed access control protects your business even when you're off-site. ## Take the First Step Toward Smarter Security Don’t wait for a security breach to act, plan ahead. [**Sonitrol Western Canada’s verified security solutions **](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/feedback)**integrate access control with intrusion detection, video, and 24/7 monitoring** into a unified platform that works from the moment it’s installed. Get a free consultation today and discover why thousands of security-conscious professionals trust Sonitrol to protect what matters most. [![Free Security Plan](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/325814/a9fa8d15-3966-4f69-a4d8-40d8058a866f.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/325814/a9fa8d15-3966-4f69-a4d8-40d8058a866f) **Tags: ** [Access Control](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/blog/topic/access-control) ![Joe Wilson](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/hs-fs/hubfs/2024%20Website/Images/joe-blog-avatar.png?width=50&height=50&name=joe-blog-avatar.png) Post by [Joe Wilson](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/blog/author/joe-wilson) May 20, 2025 We provide our customers with the best commercial security solutions and quality service backed by our unique Guarantee and Commitment to Service. It's something unverified conventional alarm companies simply cannot guarantee! ### Related Articles ##### [![What Your AI Camera Can't See: Commercial Security Systems in 2026](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Security%20in%202026%20Whats%20Changed%2c%20What%20Hasnt%2c%20and%20What%20Your%20Business%20Actually%20Needs%20Blog%20Post.png?width=520&height=294&name=Security%20in%202026%20Whats%20Changed%2c%20What%20Hasnt%2c%20and%20What%20Your%20Business%20Actually%20Needs%20Blog%20Post.png) Verified Video Surveillance • June 05, 2026 What Your AI Camera Can't See: Commercial Security Systems in 2026 8 min read](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/blog/what-your-ai-camera-cant-see-commercial-security-systems-2026) ##### [![5 Key Benefits of Implementing Building Access Control Systems](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/hs-fs/hubfs/2025/Blog%20Images/5%20Key%20Benefits%20of%20Implementing%20Building%20Access%20Control%20Systems%20%20-%20blog%20banner.jpg?width=520&height=294&name=5%20Key%20Benefits%20of%20Implementing%20Building%20Access%20Control%20Systems%20%20-%20blog%20banner.jpg) Access Control • March 19, 2025 5 Key Benefits of Implementing Building Access Control Systems 5 min read](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/blog/key-benefits-of-implementing-building-access-control-systems) ### Subscribe to Sonitrol Blog Updates Stay up to date with the industry's leading news, products and information. ###### Recent Posts - [What Your AI Camera Can't See: Commercial Security Systems in 2026](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/blog/what-your-ai-camera-cant-see-commercial-security-systems-2026) - [How to Stop Break-Ins at Commercial Properties and Why Most Businesses Are Getting It Wrong](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/blog/how-to-stop-break-ins-at-commercial-properties-and-why-most-businesses-are-getting-it-wrong) - [Are Business Alarm Systems Worth it? A Risk-Based Breakdown](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/blog/are-business-alarm-systems-worth-it-a-risk-based-breakdown) - [Why Businesses Switch to Sonitrol Verified Security](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/blog/why-businesses-switch-to-sonitrol-verified-security) - [Why Every Business Should Get a Commercial Security Audit Before Choosing a System](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/blog/why-every-business-should-get-a-commercial-security-audit-before-choosing-a-system) ![sonitrol-guide](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/hs-fs/hubfs/2024%20Website/Images/sonitrol-guide.png?width=219&height=200&name=sonitrol-guide.png) ##### Learn what the competition isn't telling you about commercial security systems Become a more informed security system buyer, as this guide explains in detail why conventional alarms are ineffective, and could make your business vulnerable to theft and robbery. [Download Guide](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/25-misconceptions-about-commercial-alarm-systems-and-problems-with-conventional-cctv-alarms) ![book-light (2)](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/hubfs/2024%20Website/Images/book-light%20(2).svg) ![book-light (2)](https://www.sonitrolwesterncanada.com/hubfs/2024%20Website/Images/book-light%20(2).svg) Free eBook: Learn What The Competition Isn't Telling You About Commercial Security Systems #### There are lots of problems with conventional, commercial security alarm systems that you need to know about. Become a more informed security system buyer, as this guide explains in detail why conventional alarms are ineffective and could make your business vulnerable to theft and robbery. [![Read the Free Guide](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/325814/74f580dc-96d9-4e5a-bd7c-ff3d4a60f554.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/325814/74f580dc-96d9-4e5a-bd7c-ff3d4a60f554)