What is biometric authentication?
Biometric authentication is a method of security used in access control and identification. Biometrics are the measurements of human characteristics such as facial recognition, voice patterns, and iris recognition. If the individual’s biometric data matches that in the database, they will be granted entry into a building or passage through a barrier.
What is a biometric input?
A biometric input device measures the unique characteristics of a person (iris, hand, fingerprint). The most common biometric input devices are computers and cameras. A biometric reader in access control is also an input device, which uses stored information to check if the person’s biometric data.
Why are biometrics used in security systems?
Biometrics are used in security systems to decrease the risk of unauthorised access, either from a stolen access hardware device (e.g. an access card or key fob) or ID. Biometric data is unique and therefore difficult to imitate. Examples of biometrics include: iris patterns, fingerprint patterns, and hand shape.
How much does a biometric fingerprint scanner cost?
From £150 to 1500, depending on the manufacturer and requirements.
How secure is biometrics?
Biometrics are more secure than passwords and cannot be as easily stolen as key fobs or access cards. There is always the possibility the database can be hacked, or that somebody’s finger print can be obtain from an imprint left somewhere.
What is a gate barrier system?
A gate barrier system is a security system comprising a gate which restricts vehicle users and pedestrians from freely accessing a place without presenting authentication of some type. Examples of barrier systems include vehicular gates, barriers and bollards.
How does an automatic boom barrier work?
An automatic boom barrier works by having the boom barrier bar or pole rise vertically to allow the passage of authorised vehicles to drive through. This either happens when a vehicle has been authorised to enter by ANPR technology or the vehicular user has printed off a parking ticket.
How does the turnstile access control system work?
Turnstile access control systems work by only allowing the access of one person at a time, allowing for one-way traffic only. The person walking through is only given access upon the presentation of the appropriate credentials, examples being biometric data, identity documents and access cards.
What are the disadvantages of turnstiles?
The disadvantage of a turnstile access control system is that it is easier for people to jump over or under turnstiles, therefore increasing the likelihood of unauthorised entry and decreasing security. Paddle gates are taller, and therefore could be an alternative.
What is iris recognition used for?
Iris recognition is a form of biometric identification using the iris patterns of a person’s eyes. This is commonly used in access control systems, used as a means of granting a user access to a premise provided that their biometric data is on the permissions list.
What is fingerprint biometrics?
Fingerprint biometrics is a method of biometric access control in which the person is recognised by their unique fingerprint data before being granted entry into a building or through a barrier. Other biometrics used in access control include hand shape, facial recognition, iris recognition, voice patterns and gait analysis.