What is face recognition access control?

Facial recognition access control is a method of unlocking a space, with your face. 

It can be used in a variety of different sectors and settings.  

Face recognition works through the use of biometric technology.

An image is taken of a user, which is converted irreversibly to a series of numbers; measurements between the eyes, nose, and measures the general face shape. 

This image is then saved to a database of faces, so that when a user approaches the Facentry device, this face is compared to all of the data in the database.

This information is then used to either grant or deny access to a particular space. 

This method of access control is incredibly secure, and with updated algorithms, even works while a user is wearing PPE, such as a face mask. 

Think of it in a similar way to unlocking your iPhone with your face using Face ID - face recognition access control uses the same technology, but instead of opening a mobile phone, it will open a door, gate, turnstile, or high-security area.

What are the benefits?

The benefits of facial recognition access control are safety, security, and convenience. 

• Contactless: Face recognition access control doesn’t require any physical contact to enter or exit a space - simply walk up to a Facentry camera, have access granted, and walk straight through the door.

• Safe: Algorithms for biometric identification are 99% accurate, meaning that security is high for spaces protected with face recognition access control.

• Secure: Personal data protection is of the utmost of importance to ethical biometric identification companies. We believe in maintaining the highest of data protection standards, ensuring that all data obtained is secure.

• Remote enrolment: Users don’t have to be physically present to scan a fingerprint or enrol on site - with our FaceOS technology, users can upload a selfie to the dashboard from anywhere in the world, and arrive at their location with access granted.

• Allocate access based on accreditations: For certain sectors, construction as an example, certain areas of a site are cordoned off for access granted only to those with the correct level of H&S training. Use Facentry technology as a way of holding site managers to account, to ensure workers are protected and H&S compliant.

• Self enrolment: There’s no complicated onboarding process. Simply upload a selfie, and access your space on arrival.

• Manage flow: Move traffic seamlessly through a space, without bottlenecks at access control points.

• Hands-free user authentication: No need for fingerprints, key fobs, cards or pin-codes. Just approach the device, access is granted, and enter your space.

• Improved security: Reduce the risk of fraud, undesirable individuals within your space, or theft with higher security access control.

• Remote management of user IDs: Manage who’s granted access to a space from afar, without any need for in-person user management.

• No authentication device required: No physical key fobs, cards, badges or keys are required. We’re all human, sometimes we forget our keys. This isn’t an issue with face recognition access control - your face is your key.

• Integration with other platforms: Facial recognition access control systems can easily be integrated with other platforms and systems, like payroll, time and attendance, logistical platforms, or building management systems. This helps to develop a smart bolding environment.

What hardware do you need?

We keep our kit as simple as possible. All you’ll need is a Facentry camera (quantity depends on site requirements), a Controller Unit and a door lock system connection. 

• Facentry Camera

• Controller Unit

• Local or Cloud Server with FaceOS

• Gate/Turnstile/Door

The Facentry System consists of four elements:

• The UCMe C (pronounced you-see-me-see). This is our contactless camera unit and is positioned next to the door, gate or turnstile. The system can be configured with an exit UCMe C as well as an entry device.

• The UCMe CU (pronounced you-see-me-see-you). This is the Control Unit for the relevant UCMe C. Each UCMe C has an associated UCMe CU. The UCMe CU must be mounted within 7m cable length of the UCMe CU, ideally 3m.

• The local server is typically an Intel NUC, a small but powerful computer unit securely located on site. This can be connected to the cloud or can be operated as an off-grid system.

• The UCMe CUs are connected to the door lock: typically a Maglok or an electronic strike plate.

Buying considerations?

What should you take into consideration when searching for a face recognition access control system?

Each sector or site will have it’s own idiosyncrasies, and will vary greatly dependent on a number of factors:

• Number of doors: is an entry and exit camera required? Are each doors or specific areas requiring face recognition access control?

• Multiple site support/compatibility: Is it one site? Or multiple?

• Price per reader: How many units will you require?

• Enrolment process: How many users will be enrolling onto the system?

• Accuracy: Which algorithm is best for you? We work with a UK based provider who’s priorities are accuracy and ethics.

• Reliability: Face recognition access control systems are incredibly reliable, and more secure than a standard key-card access system.

• Data privacy: Biometric access control requires personal data, which must be protected. Ensure you find a provider who prioritises data privacy and customer care.

COVID19 and Face Recognition Access Control

COVID19 has changed the way we see the world, and the way in which we protect ourselves. Face recognition access control is COVID compliant, as it significantly reduces the number of contact points a user must interact with to access a space. 

• Contactless

• Adopted Technology: there’s a familiarity to face recognition through Face ID by Apple for mobile phone unlocking

• PPE: There have been vast improvements to accuracy of algorithms, and now the ability to use algorithms which identify faces with masks/PPE.

Want help with your next face recognition access control system?

TouchByte is one of the UK’s leading face recognition access control companies, prioritising ethics, accuracy, innovation and customisable solutions.

We’d love to work with you to help elevate your access control and security.

Feel free to get in touch with us to see how we can help you.