Access control systems have become a central component of modern building security, managing entry to restricted areas, monitoring user activity, and integrating with surveillance and building automation systems. While selecting the right hardware and software is crucial, many access control failures occur due to poor network design. Without a robust and well-planned network, even the most advanced access control systems may underperform or fail entirely.

XTEN-AV emphasizes that Access Control System Designs Fail when network infrastructure is overlooked or improperly configured. This blog explores common network design mistakes and provides guidance on how to avoid them, ensuring reliable, secure, and efficient operation of access control systems.

Understand the Network Requirements Early

A successful integration starts with understanding the network requirements of your access control system. Many engineers focus on the physical devices without fully considering the data flow, bandwidth requirements, or latency constraints. Access control systems rely on controllers, card readers, biometric devices, and software servers to communicate in real time.

Common mistakes include:

• Underestimating bandwidth needs, which can slow down or interrupt communication between devices and servers

• Ignoring latency issues that affect real-time verification of credentials

• Failing to account for simultaneous access attempts during peak hours

Performing a network assessment and planning for the expected load helps ensure smooth operation. XTEN-AV recommends documenting every device, expected traffic, and redundancy needs before finalizing the design.

Overloading Network Segments

Another frequent mistake is overloading a single network segment with too many controllers or devices. Each access point generates traffic, and if the network is not segmented properly, this can lead to packet loss, delayed access verification, and even system crashes.

• Avoid connecting all controllers to the same switch without considering traffic capacity

• Use network segmentation and VLANs to separate access control traffic from other data streams

• Ensure switches and routers can handle peak traffic without degradation

Proper segmentation and traffic management prevent bottlenecks and maintain the responsiveness of the system.

Ignoring Redundancy and Failover Planning

Many network failures could have been prevented with proper redundancy planning. Access control systems need high availability, especially in critical environments such as hospitals, data centers, and government buildings.

• Single points of failure, such as a primary controller or switch, can bring the entire system down

• Lack of redundant network paths or backup servers can cause prolonged downtime

• Ignoring power redundancy, including UPS or battery backup, risks system failure during outages

Including redundant controllers, failover servers, and multiple network paths ensures that the system continues functioning even if one component fails.

Neglecting IP Address Management

Access control systems rely on unique IP addresses for each device. Poor IP address planning can lead to conflicts, connectivity issues, and delays in troubleshooting.

• Avoid assigning addresses without a structured plan

• Use DHCP carefully, as dynamic addresses can complicate device identification

• Maintain an updated IP address table for all controllers, readers, and servers

Proper IP management simplifies maintenance and prevents connectivity issues that can cause Access Control System Designs Fail.

Overlooking Network Security

Access control systems are a critical part of building security, and their network must be equally secure. Failing to implement proper security measures can expose the system to cyber threats, unauthorized access, or data breaches.

• Avoid using default passwords on controllers, servers, and devices

• Implement firewalls, VLANs, and VPNs where appropriate

• Regularly update firmware and software to patch vulnerabilities

A secure network ensures that the access control system itself is protected and maintains the integrity of access logs and credentials.

Improper Cabling and Physical Infrastructure

Even the best network design can fail if the physical cabling is substandard or improperly installed. Access control devices often rely on Power over Ethernet (PoE) or separate power and data lines. Common mistakes include:

• Using low-quality cables that cannot handle the required bandwidth

• Exceeding cable length limitations, leading to signal degradation backlinksseo

• Failing to properly terminate and protect cables, exposing them to interference or damage

Planning cable routes, selecting high-quality cabling, and adhering to standards ensures reliable connectivity across all devices.

Failing to Test Network Performance Before Deployment

Network testing is an essential but often overlooked step. Many engineers deploy access control systems without simulating real-world conditions, which can lead to failures once the system is live.

• Conduct stress testing to simulate peak usage

• Verify that latency, packet loss, and throughput meet system requirements

• Test failover scenarios and redundancy systems to ensure uninterrupted operation

Testing before deployment identifies weaknesses and allows engineers to make adjustments, reducing the likelihood of operational failures.

Ignoring Future Scalability

Network designs often fail because they do not account for future growth or system expansion. Adding new access points, doors, or devices can overwhelm a network that was not designed to scale.

• Plan for additional controllers and devices during the initial design

• Use scalable switches and routers that can accommodate increased traffic

• Consider software licenses and server capacity for future expansion

A scalable network prevents costly upgrades and ensures the access control system continues to operate efficiently as needs evolve.

Document Everything

Clear documentation is crucial for maintenance, troubleshooting, and future expansion. Network diagrams, IP address tables, device lists, and configuration details should be maintained and updated regularly.

• Document all network segments, VLANs, and cabling routes

• Maintain a record of device IP addresses and firmware versions

• Include configuration backups for controllers, servers, and switches

Comprehensive documentation makes it easier to troubleshoot issues, perform updates, and expand the system without causing failures.

Conclusion

Integrating access control systems into a building network requires careful planning, precise execution, and ongoing maintenance. Many Access Control System Designs Fail due to inadequate network design, including poor bandwidth planning, lack of redundancy, insufficient security measures, and failure to consider scalability.

XTEN-AV emphasizes that avoiding these common mistakes ensures reliable, secure, and high-performing access control systems. By following best practices in network design, engineers and integrators can create systems that provide seamless security, protect assets, and deliver long-term operational efficiency.

Would you like me to create a practical network design checklist that engineers can use as a reference when deploying access control systems? This could make the blog immediately actionable.