Imagine a world where lost keys and unauthorized access are no longer a concern.

Keyless entry systems are making this dream a reality

With advanced (and convenient) solutions for business owners and operators like you, making the switch to keyless can boost both security and tenant experience at the same time. These systems use key cards, PIN codes, and mobile credentials to provide seamless and secure access instead of relying on physical locks and keys.

In this article, we'll explore how keyless entry systems work, compare them to traditional locks, discuss their benefits for businesses, and review some of the best options available.

Let's go.

What is a keyless entry system?

A keyless entry system is a modern security solution that eliminates the need for traditional keys. Instead, it uses advanced technology like keyless door locks and keyless access control systems to secure premises.

Keyless locks can be operated through various means such as key cards, PIN codes, or even smartphones. By integrating these systems, businesses can streamline access management, enhance security, and reduce the risk of unauthorized entry. This innovation in access control ensures that only authorized personnel can enter, providing a seamless and secure environment for commercial properties.

How keyless entry systems work (the simplified version)

Keyless entry systems operate by replacing traditional keys with secure and convenient alternatives. Here's a breakdown of the types of keyless systems and how they function:

• Key cards: These cards grant access when swiped or tapped on an access reader. They're commonly used in office buildings and can be easily deactivated if lost, enhancing security.
• PIN codes: Users enter a unique code on a keypad to gain entry. This method is straightforward and eliminates the need for physical cards or keys.
• Access readers: These devices read credentials from key cards, fobs, or smartphones. They are the interface between the user and the locking mechanism.
• Key fob systems: Small devices that users carry and tap against a reader to unlock doors. They offer a convenient way to manage access without needing cards or codes.
• Proximity readers: These detect a nearby credential, like a card or fob, to allow entry. This method is highly convenient as it requires minimal action from the user.
• Smart locks: These can be controlled via mobile apps, providing keyless access using smartphones. Smart locks offer remote access capabilities, allowing you to lock or unlock doors from anywhere.
• Access cards: Similar to key cards, access cards open doors when scanned by a reader. Due to their simplicity and effectiveness, they are widely used in various commercial settings.

These components work together to create a secure and efficient access system for commercial properties. Keyless entry systems enhance convenience and security by eliminating the need for traditional keys.

But are they worth the investment for your business?

Let's explore the benefits and drawbacks to find out.

Are commercial keyless entry systems worth it?

The real question here is this:

Are keyless entry systems better than traditional lock and key systems?

Let's explore it.

Traditional locks are prone to being picked or copied, posing security risks. On the other hand, keyless systems offer enhanced security by using PIN codes, key cards, and smart locks, which are harder to breach.

Key management in traditional systems can also be cumbersome, especially in large commercial buildings. Keyless entry systems simplify this by allowing remote access management, typically through smartphone apps, eliminating the need for physical keys. Although the initial investment for keyless systems is often higher, they offer long-term cost savings by reducing the need for rekeying and maintenance.

Keyless systems also provide better access control and monitoring, making managing and securing commercial properties easier.

Given these benefits, keyless entry systems are a great alternative to traditional locks for businesses that want better security, more convenience, and lower long-term costs.

Why choose keyless entry systems for your business

Keyless entry systems provide a modern solution for businesses, replacing legacy access control systems with more secure and convenient options.

Here are three compelling reasons for business owners with commercial properties to consider making the switch:

Remote access and mobile credentials

One of the standout features of keyless entry systems is their ability to offer remote access and mobile credentials.

This capability provides unparalleled convenience and control for business owners and property managers. Here’s how these systems can benefit your business:

• Electronic locks: These locks can be controlled remotely, allowing you to lock or unlock doors from anywhere using a mobile device. This is especially useful for granting access to employees, contractors, or delivery personnel without being on-site.
• Access codes: You can generate temporary or permanent access codes that can be shared with authorized users. These codes can be easily changed or revoked, providing a flexible and secure way to manage entry.
• Remote management: With keyless entry systems, you can monitor and manage access in real time through a centralized platform. This includes viewing access logs, setting access schedules, and receiving alerts for unauthorized attempts.
• Mobile device integration: Many keyless systems come with smartphone apps that offer seamless integration with your existing security infrastructure. These apps allow users to use their phones as access credentials, eliminating needing physical keys or cards.
• Remote control capabilities: In addition to locking and unlocking doors, remote control features include the ability to set up and modify user permissions, schedule access times, and receive notifications of any access activity. This level of control enhances overall security and operational efficiency.

Implementing remote access and mobile credentials in your keyless entry system means enhanced flexibility and control.

Whether you manage a single office or multiple locations, these features ensure that you can maintain secure and efficient access management, no matter where you are. This modern approach significantly enhances the convenience of business operations while also improving security.

Enhanced security for your buildings

Keyless entry systems offer significant security advantages over traditional locks, making them an excellent choice for businesses looking to enhance building security. Here’s how these systems contribute to a safer environment:

• Security systems integration: Keyless entry systems can be integrated with existing security systems, creating a comprehensive security network. This integration ensures real-time monitoring and quick responses to security breaches.
• Unauthorized access prevention: Keyless systems use advanced technology to prevent unauthorized access. Features like encrypted key cards, biometric scanners, and secure PIN codes make it difficult for unauthorized individuals to gain entry.
• Security breach alerts: Many keyless entry systems like B-Line have built-in alerts for unauthorized access attempts. These alerts can be sent directly to your mobile device, allowing for immediate action to secure the premises.
• Secure access management: Centralized access management allows you to control who can enter specific areas. You can easily add or remove users, set access levels, and monitor entry logs to ensure that only authorized personnel have access.
• Robust security protocols: Implementing keyless entry systems requires strict security protocols. These systems are regularly updated to address new security threats, ensuring that your building remains protected against potential breaches.

With these enhanced security features, keyless entry systems provide a robust solution for protecting commercial properties. They offer peace of mind, knowing that your building is equipped with the latest technology to safeguard against unauthorized access and security breaches.

Improved guest and visitor management

Keyless entry systems can significantly enhance your overall guest and visitor experience while improving security and gathering actionable data for owners and operators like you.

• Visitor management system: Keyless entry systems often include or closely integrate with visitor management software, allowing you to pre-register guests and issue temporary access credentials. This ensures a smooth check-in process and reduces wait times.
• Access credentials: Temporary access credentials, such as key cards, PIN codes, or mobile credentials, can be issued to visitors. These credentials can be set to expire after a specific period, ensuring that guests have access only for the duration of their visit.
• Authorized users: Only authorized users can issue or modify access credentials, controlling who can enter your premises. This ensures that visitors are properly vetted before being granted access.
• Real-time monitoring: You can monitor visitor activity in real-time, tracking who is on-site and when. This information can be crucial for security audits and maintaining an accurate record of all visitors.
• Enhanced security: By managing guest access through a keyless entry system, you can ensure that only authorized individuals can enter restricted areas. This reduces the risk of unauthorized access and improves overall security.

Implementing keyless entry systems for guest management enhances security and improves the overall visitor experience. With streamlined check-ins, temporary access credentials, and real-time monitoring, businesses can provide a secure and efficient way to manage guests and visitors.

The best keyless entry systems for businesses

Choosing the right keyless entry system is crucial for your business's security and efficiency. In this section, we'll explore a few of the best options worth considering and highlight their unique features and benefits to help you make an informed decision.

B-Line

We're slightly biased here, but we're confident that B-Line is the best choice for most commercial property owners looking for a smart keyless entry system.

Here's why we think so:

• Seamless integration: B-Line integrates with your existing access control systems, eliminating the need for costly hardware upgrades.
• Mobile access: Manage access and credentials via a smartphone app, providing convenience and flexibility for both tenants and property managers.
• Enhanced security: Advanced access control features ensure only authorized personnel can enter, with real-time monitoring and immediate lockdown capabilities.
• Tenant experience: Tenants can book amenities, report maintenance issues, and manage visitors from their smartphones, reducing the administrative burden.

Beyond the actual functionality, the B-Line platform also offers comprehensive building analytics, monitoring your building around the clock.

This helps you optimize energy costs by identifying peaks and downtimes. It also provides insights into space utilization, showing which areas are most commonly used and which are rarely occupied.

These analytics enable better resource management, improve overall efficiency, and reduce operational costs. By understanding how your building is used, you can make informed decisions to enhance tenants' comfort and functionality.

HID Global

HID Global is known for its robust and highly technical access control solutions, which are ideal for large enterprises and institutions. Their systems offer high-level security features and customizability, making them suitable for complex environments.

However, these advanced and highly technical features can lead to a steep learning curve and higher initial costs compared to alternative systems. Additionally, integration with existing infrastructure will likely require significantly more technical expertise.

Still, HID Global remains a viable choice for large businesses needing sophisticated access control and security.

Schlage

Schlage offers keyless entry systems that are well-suited for small to medium-sized businesses (SMBs) and multifamily property owners. Their systems are easy to install and use, providing a reliable security solution without the complexity.

However, Schlage's offerings may not be ideal for commercial office buildings or larger properties due to their limited scalability and advanced features.

While great for smaller applications, businesses with more extensive needs might find Schlage's systems insufficient for their security requirements.

Get started with B-Line

Commercial property owners and operators trust B-Line's keyless access control system to enhance security and improve operations. B-Line offers scalable solutions for SMBs, enterprises, and everything in between that adapt to your needs as you grow.

Whether you manage a multifamily property or a commercial office building, we provide the flexibility and reliability you need.

Don't just take our word for it though—take a look at how B-Line has helped commercial properties like Brookstreet Hotel modernize their entire building management system with AI-powered smart technology.

If you're ready to switch to a keyless entry system, reach out today for a demo of the B-Line platform. We'll talk you through how we could plug into the systems you already rely on, or how we could help you implement a modern access control system from scratch.