The Ultimate Guide to a Telephone Entry System for Business

When it comes to securing a business, there are many access control options to choose from. One popular solution for commercial properties, including condos, apartment complexes, office buildings and factories, is a telephone entry system. These systems allow authorized personnel and visitors to request access without someone having to physically open a gate or door.

In this guide, we’ll explain how telephone entry systems work, the different types available, their key components and features, and what to consider when choosing a system for your property.

What is a telephone entry system and how do they work?

A telephone entry system is an access control solution that allows authorized personnel or visitors to enter a property using telephone-based communication. Typically installed near gates and entrances, the system may include a keypad, speakerphone, microphone and dialer. When someone requests access, an authorized person can verify the visitor and remotely unlock the gate or door.

Modern telephone entry systems combine communication and access control to help businesses manage who enters a property. Depending on the system, visitors can contact an employee or authorized user, enter an access code, or use another credential to request entry. This gives businesses a convenient way to control access at gates, doors and other secured entrances.

Types of telephone entry systems

There are several types of telephone entry systems available for businesses: 

• Keypad entry systems: Users enter an authorized code on a keypad to gain access. This can provide a convenient option for employees, tenants or other approved users without requiring a physical key.

• Card reader systems: Users present an authorized access card or credential to a reader installed near the entrance. The system verifies the credential before allowing access.

• Intercom entry systems: Visitors use an intercom to communicate with an employee, tenant or other authorized person, who can verify the visitor and remotely grant access.

Components of telephone entry systems

A telephone entry system consists of several components that work together to provide secure and convenient access control. Depending on the system, these components may include:

• Keypad: Allows authorized users to enter an access code to unlock a gate or door.

• Speakerphone: Provides hands-free communication between visitors and authorized personnel.

• Card reader: Allows employees, tenants or other authorized users to gain access with an approved card or credential.

• Intercom: Enables visitors to communicate with someone inside the property for verification before access is granted. Read more about our business intercom systems here.

• Microphone and speaker: Allow clear two-way communication between visitors and authorized personnel.

• Read more about business intercom systems

​Advantages and disadvantages of telephone entry systems

These systems offer businesses several advantages, depending on the property and its security requirements:Telephone entry systems offer businesses a number of advantages: 

• Easy to install: Many systems can be added to existing entrances with relatively little disruption, depending on the property’s infrastructure and equipment requirements.

• Secure access control: Businesses can manage who is permitted to enter secured areas without relying solely on traditional keys.

• Remote management: Authorized personnel may be able to manage visitor access and monitor entrances without being physically stationed at the door or gate.

However, telephone entry systems also have some drawbacks: 

• Cost: Telephone entry systems can be expensive to install and maintain.
• Not foolproof: Telephone entry systems can be easily bypassed by unauthorized personnel.

Questions to ask before getting a telephone entry system

Before investing in a telephone entry system for your business, consider these questions to help determine which solution best fits your property and security requirements:

• What type of entry system best fits my property and security requirements?

• Will it integrate with my existing access control, telephone or network infrastructure?

• Which features do my employees, tenants or visitors actually need?

• Can the system be managed remotely if necessary?

• How will employees, visitors and other authorized users be granted access?

• What installation and ongoing maintenance will be required?

• Can the system expand as my organization or property needs change?

• What are the initial and ongoing costs of the system?

Considering these factors can help you choose an access control solution that fits your business, property and security requirements.