At a very basic level, Physical access control systems (PACS) is a security technique that regulates who enters a location and when. A Physical access control systems determines who is allowed to enter or exit, where they are allowed to exit or enter, and when they are allowed to enter or exit. The goal of access control (PACS) is to minimize the security risk of unauthorized access. The person entering may be an employee, a contractor or a visitor and they may be on foot, driving a vehicle or using another mode of transport. 

When we talk about a physical access control system (PACS), To secure a facility, organizations use an electronic security system that rely on user credentials, access card readers, auditing and reports to track employee access to restricted business locations and proprietary areas, such as data centers. And, as they’re capable of logging who accessed where and when, they can provide valuable data to help you track how your buildings and sites are being used. Some of these systems can provide  alarms and lockdown capabilities, to prevent unauthorized access or operations.

The following are the main components of a physical access control system:

Access point

Personal credentials

Readers and/or keypads

Control panel

Access control server