Installing an Access Control System in a Small Office

6 June 2025

Securing your office is more important than ever, especially in a small business where resources are limited and every asset matters. An access control system provides a modern, scalable solution to manage who enters your workspace and when. Whether you’re protecting sensitive client data or simply want to prevent unauthorized access, installing the right access control system is a smart investment.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the key steps to install an access control system in a small office; no IT department needed.

Choose the Right Access Control System

Before buying an access control system, decide what type of access control system fits your needs:

Key card systems: Popular in offices, these use RFID cards or fobs.
Keypad entry: Employees enter a PIN to unlock doors.
Mobile access: Doors are unlocked via smartphone apps.
Biometric systems: Use fingerprint or facial recognition (more expensive).

Pro tip: For most small offices, a key card or mobile access system balances cost, security, and ease of use.

Key Features to Consider

Number of users supported
Integration with security cameras or alarms
Audit logs and reporting
Emergency lockdown features
Fire alarm integration

Assess Your Office Layout

Walk through your office and identify:

Main entry points that need access control
Interior doors for restricted areas (HR and finance offices)
Power sources and internet connectivity near each door
Whether doors are metal, glass, or wood (this affects mounting options)

Document everything. This plan will guide your equipment purchase and installation.

Purchase the Necessary Hardware

You’ll typically need:

Door readers (card reader, keypad, biometric scanner)
Electric locks or magnetic locks (replaces or augments traditional locks)
Door Controller panels with network wiring access
Power supply (PoE or traditional power adapters)
Access credentials (cards, fobs, or app accounts)

Optional but recommended:

Door sensors (for tracking open/close status)
Exit buttons (for easy egress)
Backup battery (in case of power outage)

Install the System

Whilst it may seem relatively straight forward to install an access control system we would always recommend working with a manufacturer certified installer. Manufacturers such as Remsdaq, have a network of approved installers who can provide site surveys, and discuss your system needs which can help to make installation and rollout far easier. Installers should also have all the necessary training to cover the electrical and network cabling side of the installation including wiring through walls, integrating alarms, or installing maglocks that require permits.

General Installation Steps

Mount the reader outside the door at a convenient height (usually 48 inches from the ground).
Install the electric/magnetic lock on the door and frame. Follow the manufacturer’s alignment instructions carefully.
Run power and data lines (if not wireless). Use cable conduits for neatness and safety.
Connect the reader to the control panel or hub, then connect to your network.
Configure the system software – add users, define access schedules, and set up alerts or notifications.

Test and Train

Before going live:

Test each door for locking/unlocking reliability.
Simulate access scenarios (lost badge, emergency unlock).
Train staff on how to use the system, request access changes, and report issues.

Step 6: Maintain and Monitor

Set a schedule to:

Review access logs for any anomalies
Replace worn-out credentials (cards and key fobs)
Update firmware or software
Reassess access levels if staff roles change
Replace any batteries used for backup power

Consider integrating the system with your video surveillance or alarm system for comprehensive office security.

Thoughts

Installing an access control system in a small office doesn’t have to be complex or costly. With the right planning and tools, even a team without dedicated IT or facilities staff can deploy a system that enhances safety, convenience, and professionalism. As your company grows, a well-installed access control system can grow with you—adding new users, doors, and features without a full overhaul.