IoT - How it Works in Access Control

Internet of Things - How it Works in Access Control 

The "Internet of Things" precisely known as IoT is an integrated network of intelligent computing devices connected through the internet to communicate with each other without any human interference.

What is IoT?

The Internet of Things (IoT) is a technological concept of connecting multiple devices that have the possibility of switching on and off the web in order to use software and automation processes for smart living. IoT is an innovation that changes the way we organize our lives at home and at work, as well as the way we move and use transportation means and manage industrial machinery. Any object, even people, in terms of smartphones and wearables, can be a part of the IoT grid.

The IoT is not limited to computers or other most common devices used for web connections. It’s typical to expect a desktop, a tablet, and a mobile to find their place in the IoT, but the concept encompasses way more. For example, smart vehicles, whose navigation systems depend on a computer dashboard connected to the web can be part of the Internet of Things. Any equipment that can support the smart sensor technology is viable for the IoT environment.

It’s not too difficult to imagine how the IoT grid is and how it will be transforming our workplaces. The Internet of Things at work enables smart buildings that automate business processes and improve security. In a way, IoT office solutions are a bridge from the physical to the virtual workplace.

Taking the physical information and transforming it into virtual data via IoT sensors results in the ability to manage many processes from anything that has a computer processor. Although we haven’t exhausted all IoT ideas for offices, many organizations have benefited from accepting the basics of the concept, creating smart lighting and aircon systems, as well as smart access control systems.

The access control mechanisms restrict unauthorized users from accessing the system by introducing appropriate mechanisms. Data sharing is the process of exchanging information among IIoT users. The access control and data sharing strict the legitimate users can only exchange their data. The access control defines which type of users can access the information of the particular IIoT system and is permitted to perform the control activities.

Internet of Things Ecosystem

IoT is a new concept of integrated network of different kinds of computing devices in the field of information technology. It is based on the IP network in which every individual machine used in manufacturing, security, transportation, and other fields of our day-to-day life is assigned a unique IP to communicate with each other.

Every machine/device is connected with the related sensors, which trigger the control system to issue instructions to a particular machine for some action to perform automatically. This network can communicate through both wireless and wired internet connectivity.

How is IoT used in access control system?

Internet of things is a backbone of modern IoT access control system commonly known as intelligent door locking systems. In this system, every lock, lock access controller, card reader and other associated devices are assigned a separate IP address, which is used for communication among the devices.

In a single building, all those intelligent machines are normally connected through wireless networks to their consolidated management software or mobile application. These applications can be configured for automatic as well as manual operation of different locks and controllers. The security alerts and notifications can also be configured to receive on mobile apps in real time.

Each device/machine is configured for its operating conditions, criteria, sensitivity and authority in core management control software, which is used as controller of the entire system. A duplicate control of this system is used as a mobile app on your mobile devices too; you can receive the status of your access system and you can also issue instructions from your app. Any malicious activity in your access system generates an alert and detailed notification on your mobile app or main management software controller.

What products use it?

Internet of things is used by thousands of types of products in general and almost all parts of the IoT security system commonly used in modern buildings. In access control, intelligent locks, card readers, keypads and other related devices use the technology behind the concept of the internet of things.

Every authorized mobile device also uses its unique IP address in the network to get an access into the main controller for using the intelligent locking system. The main server also has a unique IP address to establish iot communication among the components of entire IoT access control ecosystem.

Advantages of IoT in Access Control

The main benefits of using IoT security system based on IoT include:

- Fully integrated and highly intelligent system

- Accessible from anywhere around the world

- Capabilities to configure for different level authorities

- Can be used for both automatic and manual operations

- Easy to track the records of events

- A comprehensive approach towards secure life

Disadvantages of IoT in Access Control

The main disadvantages of using IoT access control system include:

- Certain hacking and security related issues still persist

- Not so mature technology

- Complex and costly

The nodes maintain an access control list that includes information about IoT devices, users, and associated access levels. Generally, the IIoT is formed using a group of embedded devices like sensors, cameras, and actuators to achieve a specific task. Designing access control and data sharing in such environments are very challenging owing to limited resources and heterogeneity. Context awareness, inter-domain operation, privacy assurance, resource efficiency, manageability, and accountability are some of the requirements of IIoT access control. The access control strategies are categorized into rule-based, capability-based, user control, and attribute-based.

The phrase “knowledge is power” has been taken to a whole new level by IoT technology that has been adapted in diverse areas. Governments have implemented the use of IoT devices in their activity processes such as the use of military drones while IoT devices are used by healthcare facilities and hospitals to provide high-quality healthcare services.

While smartphone and computers have been around for a long time, IoT is a relatively new phenomenon. Therefore, manufacturers and software developers have had sufficient time to address the susceptibilities pertaining to their data breach. IoT devices, alternatively, are extremely useful and come with various capabilities. Manufacturers still encounter problems such as dearth of passable hardware that is strong enough to examine and encode data yet trivial enough to fit inside the restricted space. Cybercriminals can access your home Wi-Fi network through such indiscreet devices and use the opportunity to watch your home surveillance camera to carry out a crime.

The fundamental purpose of implementing IoT devices across numerous segments is to create a completely cohesive smart city. With this integration, any device used in a manufacturing industry can link to another being used by government organizations, healthcare providers, trades or even one’s home network. Nevertheless, the law is yet to formulate privacy protection laws that cover all weaknesses across the different sectors. Cybercriminals continue to take advantage of this shortcoming, which results in the loss of revenue already invested into the project.

How to secure IoT networks

Here are some of the steps that can boost the security of your IoT network.

Know your IoT network

The first measure to take to enhanced security is to recognize and learn what you have and what needs to be protected. While it may appear one of the initial and basic steps, many companies tend to ignore this. Having an appropriate list of what’s on your IoT network and updating it frequently is key to security in any IoT network.

An IoT network usually comprises numerous devices and any of these devices can be used as a source to upset an entire IoT network. Organizations should focus on fixing the fundamentals to face the mounting cyber-risks in IoT.

IoT network security architecture

Most of the normally used surveillance devices barely support the wireless network security standards such as WPA2 or WPA3, which makes them highly vulnerable, capable of easily falling into the hands of hackers. Companies find upgradation of all these devices extremely expensive, so they should think about redesigning their network security architecture.

Divide the responsibility

One of the main problems with IoT security is that businesses often end up with security flaws since they have too much to achieve. Organizations that have their own IoT network characteristically purchase or hire paraphernalia and services from numerous services or device providers. Because IoT has to do with all these devices working together in a network, this medley of equipment can open up numerous holes that can be used to disrupt the system.

Setting up one-way connections

Setting up one-way connections is very important in an IoT network. If the endpoints in an IoT network have more privileges, cybercriminals can exploit them for cyberattacks. With the rise in the number of devices being a part of the IoT, the surface area for the invaders to attack is also increasing. Hence, businesses should restrict the skills of these IoT devices for security motives. Frequently, IoT devices are arranged in a way that they can start network connections by themselves. Although this provides much flexibility and other benefits, it can also lead to numerous security problems. By applying the exercise that all IoT devices are able to stay linked or start connections only using network firewalls and access lists will guarantee better safety.