How to Configure an Access Control System for Your Office

System Requirements

Access control panel (supports TCP/IP connection to management software)
RFID readers installed at each controlled door
Electric strikes or magnetic locks fitted and wired to the panel
Management software installed on a dedicated Windows PC
Blank RFID cards for each user

Step 1: Connect the Panel to the Network

Assign the access control panel a static IP address in your network range (e.g., 192.168.1.100). Connect it to your network switch. Open the management software, go to Device Management → Add Controller, enter the IP address, and test the connection.

Step 2: Define Access Levels

Before adding any users, define the access levels your organisation needs. Common levels: General Staff (main entrance + own floor, 08:00–20:00 weekdays), IT Staff (server room access added), Management (all doors, all hours), Visitor (lobby only, one-day validity).

Step 3: Add Door Profiles

In the software, create a profile for each controlled door. Assign the door a name, specify which panel relay it is connected to, and define the default unlock duration (3–5 seconds is typical for an electric strike).

Step 4: Create Time Zones

Create time zones that match your business hours. Example: Business Hours = Monday–Friday 07:30–21:00. Weekend = Saturday 08:00–17:00. Time zones are applied to access levels so that staff access is automatically restricted outside working hours.

Step 5: Enrol Users and Assign Cards

Go to Personnel Management → Add Employee. Enter the employee name, department, and photo. Place a blank RFID card on the USB enrolment reader — the card UID is read automatically. Assign the appropriate access level to the user. Click Download to Device to push the configuration to the panel.

Step 6: Test Each Door

Test a card for each access level at each door. Verify: correct doors open, restricted doors do not open, access is correctly denied outside time zones. Log any discrepancies and correct the access level configuration.

Step 7: Set Up Real-Time Monitoring

In the software, open the Real-Time Events panel. You should see a live feed of every card swipe. Verify that door names are displaying correctly. Configure alerts: door held open longer than 30 seconds = notification to the admin.

Step 8: Review Audit Logs

Access logs are stored in the software database. Go to Reports → Access Events and filter by user, door, or date range. Export to Excel for compliance or incident investigation. Set a reminder to back up the database monthly.