Issue link: https://www.e-digitaleditions.com/i/1255991
July/August/September 2020 I 41 are secured? How do they document access to cabinets? How do they recover keys from users? What is the response when a key is lost or stolen? Electronic lock and access control systems automate monitoring, documenting and control of access and allow fast reprogramming if access rights change or if a credential is lost or stolen. These types of control systems support three levels of access: 1. Something a person has – Access card • Assign and change credentials quickly without the need for changing the locks, but an access card can still be lost or stolen 2. Something a person knows – Keypad password • A password is more difficult to steal, but it can be guessed or reprogrammed 3. Something a person is – Biometrics • Biometric authentication is uniquely associated with an individual digital print and is only allowed for rare instances of fraud (Figure 2). Additionally, it is important to consider the levels of security for each type of access: single-factor or multi- factor authentication. Factor refers to the number of unique keys required to access the cabinet. Used individ- ually, access cards, keypad codes or biometrics are also single-factor. However, electronic lock keys are easier to use in dual and multi-factor combinations. Dual and multi-factor keys reduce the probability of access by an unauthorized user (Figure 3). Dual and multi-factor systems may require an upgrade at the electronic lock to include an additional reader. 2. Key and Rights Management When keyed locks are used to secure equipment cabinets, companies must have a strong and completely effective key management program. This requires escort of visitors and/or recovery of keys when users enter and exit the facility, recovery of keys from any exiting employees and rekeying of cabinets when keys are lost or stolen. FIGURE 2: Electronic lock and access control systems introduce three levels of security: something a person has, something a person knows or something a person is. Something a person has Something a person knows Something a person is FIGURE 3: Locks with multi-factor capabilities combine multiple key types to enhance security and connect credentials to specific authorized users. Something a person has Something a person knows Access to cabinet, data