Door Access Control Installation Guide for Offices & Public Buildings (2025)
Installing or upgrading a door access control system in your workplace or facility? This 2025 guide covers everything you need – step-by-step. Whether you’re managing a school, office, hospital, or commercial site, you’ll learn how to get it right the first time.
What Is a Door Access Control System
A door access control system lets you control who can enter specific parts of your building – and when. Instead of traditional keys, you use fobs, cards, PINs, or biometrics. It improves security, saves time, and helps with compliance.
Why Businesses & Institutions Are Upgrading in 2025
Control access by user or department
Set time-restricted entry (e.g. 9 – 5 access only)
Track staff and visitor entry logs
Remote control and real-time alerts
Easier compliance with health, safety, and GDPR
🔒 2025 Trend: More systems now integrate with CCTV, fire alarms, and HR databases – all managed from the cloud.
Types of Access Control Systems for Commercial Use
1. Centralised (Networked) Systems
Best for medium to large buildings. Control multiple doors from one location.2. Cloud-Based Access Control
Manage everything remotely – ideal for multi-site businesses, schools or trusts.3. Biometric Systems
Used in high-security areas (IT rooms, labs, etc.). Fingerprint or face scanning.4. Card/Fob Entry
Still the most common – reliable and simple for everyday access.
Essential Equipment for a Typical Setup
Access control readers or keypads
Network controller (or cloud hub)
Electric strike or magnetic locks
Cabling and power supply
Exit buttons and emergency break glass units
Management software (or cloud login)
Step-by-Step Access Control Installation
Step 1: Site Survey & Access Planning
Identify entry/exit points
Assess staff/visitor flow
Decide access levels (staff-only, student-only, cleaners, etc.)
Check for fire door compliance and escape routes
Step 2: Choose Your Hardware
Select door locks based on door type (wood, glass, metal)
Match readers with access method (card, PIN, fingerprint)
Make sure components are compatible with existing infrastructure
Step 3: Install the Locking System
Fit magnetic lock or strike plate
Secure cabling neatly (prefer trunking for visible runs)
Install fail-safe or fail-secure depending on fire safety rules
Step 4: Fit Readers & Control Panel
Mount readers at ~1.2m height
Run cable to control unit (nearby or in secure cabinet)
Network to server or connect to cloud system
Step 5: Configure Access Software
Set time zones and user groups
Assign fobs/cards to individuals
Test doors under different scenarios (power cut, fire alarm)
Step 6: Train Staff & Finalise Handover
Show admin staff how to use the system
Set up backup procedures
Provide support documentation and service contacts
Key Mistakes to Avoid
Not planning for fire exit integration
Using underpowered maglocks
Forgetting GDPR-compliant data handling
Poor quality cabling leading to system failures
Skipping user training (common in schools/hospitals)
Ongoing Maintenance Tips
Test backup batteries quarterly
Clean readers to prevent fob scan issues
Run software updates every 6–12 months
Review user access lists termly or quarterly
Log and investigate any forced-entry attempts
FAQ
Q: Can we control different zones separately (e.g. staff vs visitors)?
Yes. You can set different access levels and time restrictions for each group.
Q: What happens during a power cut?
Most systems include a battery backup. Emergency exits must stay operational by law.
Q: Do these systems meet GDPR?
They can, but you must configure data retention, user logging, and access permissions properly.
Why Our Clients Trust Us for Access Control Installations
- Paxton Gold Partner in Installations
- Custom setups for offices & commercial premises
- Full documentation, training and support included
- Cloud & on-site options available
- 20 years experience
Ongoing Support After Installation
We don’t just install and disappear. Once your access control system is in place, our support continues – making sure everything runs smoothly.
Whether it’s adding a new staff member, changing door permissions, or troubleshooting a reader – we’re always just a call or email away.
Need a site survey or not sure what system is right for you?
Enquire here to find out more information about the best solution for your site