Security has always been a significant concern for businesses and homes. Over time, the way we control access to buildings has evolved significantly. In the past, entry panels were simple intercoms that allowed residents or security personnel to speak with visitors before opening the door. Today, smart entry panels use advanced technology like cloud access, facial recognition, and mobile app integration to provide higher security and convenience.

Keep reading to learn about entry panels, their history, key features, and the advantages of upgrading to a smart entry panel.

The Basics: What is an Entry Panel?

An entry panel is a device that helps control who can enter a building or property. Traditional entry panels used wired intercom systems, allowing visitors to communicate with residents before being granted entry. However, these early systems were limited in functionality, often requiring physical presence to authorize access and lacking advanced security features. 

Today’s smart versions provide a much higher level of security and efficiency, incorporating digital technology, mobile connectivity, and even AI-powered security features. These innovations make it easier to manage entry points and help prevent unauthorized access. By integrating with broader security networks, modern entry panels enable remote monitoring, instant access control adjustments, and enhanced threat detection, making them an essential component of modern building security.

The Early Days of Entry Panels

Decades ago, entry panels were basic speaker systems. Visitors would press a button, the resident would answer, and if they recognized the person, they would buzz them in. While this was a simple way to control access, it had some big problems:

• No Visual Verification: Residents had to rely on voice recognition, which made it easier for strangers to gain access.
• No Remote Access: Residents had to be home to let someone in.
• Easy to Bypass: Older systems could be tricked or broken into.
• Limited Functionality: These systems only provide basic communication without extra security features.

The Shift to Digital Entry Panels

As technology improved, digital entry panels replaced analog ones. These new systems introduced video features, allowing residents to see who was at the door before opening it. This advancement significantly reduced the chances of unauthorized access, as visual verification made it easier to identify visitors. Additionally, digital panels provided clearer audio communication, eliminating common issues like static or unclear voice transmission in older analog systems.

Key benefits of digital entry panels include:

• Video Verification: Residents could visually confirm a visitor’s identity 
• Remote Access: Some systems allow access to be granted from a distance.
• Integration with Other Security Systems: Digital panels could connect to security cameras and alarms for better protection.
• Better Audio and Video Quality: Modern digital systems improved communication clarity, making interactions more effective.

While digital entry panels were a major step forward, they were still limited in many ways. The next big change came with smart entry panels.

What Are the Benefits of Smart Entry Panels?

Smart entry panels take security to the next level by incorporating advanced features that make access control more convenient and secure. These systems are connected to the internet, making it possible to manage access remotely, track visitor history, and even integrate with smart home or business security networks.

Cloud-Based Access Control 

With smart entry panels, you can control access from anywhere using an app or online portal. Whether you’re at work, on vacation, or at home, you have full control over who enters your building. The ability to update permissions instantly makes security more flexible and responsive.

Mobile App Integration

Smart entry panels allow people to unlock doors with their smartphones instead of using keycards or PIN codes. This eliminates the need for extra credentials and reduces the risk of lost or stolen access cards. Additionally, mobile notifications inform users about attempted entries, adding an extra layer of security.

AI-Powered Security Features 

Artificial intelligence can detect unusual behavior, send alerts about suspicious activity, and even predict potential security risks before they happen. Some AI-powered systems can learn visitor patterns and identify when someone attempts to bypass security protocols.

Integration with Security Systems 

Smart entry panels can work alongside security cameras, alarms, and access control networks to provide complete protection. This seamless integration allows for quick identification and address of security breaches.

How Smart Entry Panels Improve Security

The move toward smart entry panels is more than just about convenience—it’s about keeping people and property safe. These advanced systems help ensure access is granted only to authorized individuals while providing a seamless experience for residents and property managers. Here’s how access control systems improve security:

• Stopping Unauthorized Entry: Smart panels require mobile authentication, reducing the chance of strangers gaining access.
• Real-Time Monitoring: Property managers and homeowners receive instant alerts if unauthorized access is attempted.
• Detailed Access Logs: Every entry is recorded digitally, making reviewing who entered and when they entered easy.
• Remote Access Control: Users can lock or unlock doors from anywhere.

Automated Security Updates: Cloud-based systems receive regular updates, ensuring they remain protected against new threats.