Access Control Systems for Small Businesses: A Sacramento Guide
Key cards, fobs, PIN pads or mobile credentials — which access control system is right for your Sacramento business? We break down the options clearly.
Why Upgrade from Mechanical Keys?
Mechanical keys work fine for very small teams, but they have serious limitations for growing businesses:
- No audit trail (you can't know who entered and when)
- Rekeying the entire building when an employee leaves
- No ability to set time-based access restrictions
- Keys can be copied without your knowledge
Types of Access Control
Key Card / Key Fob Systems
The most common commercial system. Cards and fobs are inexpensive ($2–$10 each) and easy to deactivate remotely when lost or an employee leaves. Most systems store entry logs.
Best for: Offices, retail, light commercial (5–50 employees)
PIN Pad Systems
No physical credential needed — users enter a code. Good where cards might get lost (warehouses, gyms). Codes can be set per-user and changed instantly.
Best for: Warehouses, storage facilities, gyms
Mobile Credential Systems (Smartphone Access)
Employees use their phone to unlock doors via Bluetooth or NFC. No cards to lose, easy to manage from a web dashboard. Systems like Brivo or Avigilon Alta support this.
Best for: Tech companies, co-working spaces, modern offices
Biometric Systems
Fingerprint or facial recognition. Highest security, zero credential loss, but higher upfront cost and privacy considerations.
Best for: High-security areas, server rooms, financial institutions
What BestBoy Locksmith Installs
We install and service key card, fob, PIN and mobile credential systems across Sacramento County. Every installation includes:
- Free site assessment
- Hardware recommendation and sourcing
- Professional installation and programming
- Staff training
- 90-day service warranty
Call 916-999-5576 to schedule a free consultation.