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Is Your Access Control System in Somerset Secure Enough?

Affinity Fire & Security 1 February 2025 5 min read
Is Your Access Control System in Somerset Secure Enough? - Access Control Services by Affinity Fire & Security

Access control technology evolves rapidly, and systems installed just a few years ago may now have vulnerabilities that compromise your Somerset premises. Understanding these risks helps you make informed decisions about whether your current system needs updating.

Common Vulnerabilities in Older Systems

  • Cloneable credentials: Older 125kHz proximity cards and fobs can be easily cloned using inexpensive equipment
  • Unencrypted communication: Legacy systems may transmit data without encryption, making them vulnerable to interception
  • No audit trail: Some older systems do not log access events, providing no record of who entered and when
  • Limited user management: Difficulty adding, removing, or modifying user permissions
  • No integration capability: Standalone systems that cannot connect with CCTV, intruder alarms, or fire systems

Assessing Your Current System

We can carry out a security assessment of your Somerset access control system, identifying vulnerabilities and recommending proportionate improvements. In many cases, upgrading readers and credentials while retaining existing wiring and controllers provides a cost-effective path to improved security. For more detail on the upgrade process, see our guide on when to upgrade your access control system.

Modern Access Control Standards

Current best practice includes MIFARE DESFire or iCLASS SE credentials with AES encryption, encrypted communication between readers and controllers, and integration with centralised management platforms that provide real-time monitoring and reporting. We work with manufacturers like Paxton and HID to deliver secure, scalable solutions.

Integrating Access Control with Other Systems

Modern access control systems deliver the greatest value when integrated with your wider security infrastructure. Our guide to integrating access control with CCTV explains how visual verification can enhance your security posture. For buildings with multiple security systems, consider the benefits of an integrated approach.

Get in touch with our team

Get in touch with our team for an access control assessment at your Somerset premises. Our specialist engineers will give honest, impartial advice on the most appropriate solution for your security requirements and budget.

Talk to a Local Engineer

If you would like honest advice, a clear written quote, or help with compliance paperwork,get in touch with our team. We are a small, experienced South West team, and we look after every customer properly — no pushy sales, no hidden extras, and documentation you can rely on.

Why Affinity?

Affinity is run by Adam and Jack, a small South West team with over 35 years in fire and security between them. Here is what you can expect when you work with us.

Over 25 years of combined fire and security experience

Run by Adam and Jack — you deal with the owners, not a sales team

Face-to-face surveys and honest advice, never pushy sales

Affordable pricing without cutting corners on compliance

Ask Us to Pop Out and Take a Look

Tell us what you need and one of our local engineers will come out, take a look, and put together a clear written price. No obligation, no pushy sales, and no hidden extras — covering Bristol, Bath, Weston-super-Mare, Taunton, Bridgwater and the wider South West.

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