The main components of a modern system for access control are:

1. Means of authentication (credentials)

The mean of authentication is usually compact, easy to carry object that a person possesses, biometric data or other stored information. Objects can be extremely varied - most commonly used cards today are available with the format of a credit card (contact or contactless) that carry information by means of a barcode, magnetic stripe or by means of contactless technology. Biometric means of identification include fingerprint, retinal or iris scan of eyes, hand geometry, face detection and voice. Finally - authorization can be done using some information - such as password or PIN code.

2. Means of restricting access

These are the obstacles facing the person, who must be authorized, that prevent access if the authentication fails.

These may be doors, barriers, electromagnetic locks and any devices that can be controlled electronically.

3. Interfaces for authorization

These are devices that are designed to convey the information given by means of authentication to the system for decision making. Naturally, these devices conform to the means of authentication. These can be barcode readers, magnetic stripe readers, RFID readers, smart card readers, fingerprint, etc. Interface for the authorization may be a simple keyboard if it introduces access password or PIN.


4. Control devices and software

All interfaces for authorization and funds for foreclosure are physically connected to the central control device, which decides on whether to authorize or prohibit access using its search algorithms and rules, current time, and given identifying information. The device can be specialized for the current situation or a standard PC.