An Access Control System is one of the most important layers of physical security in any organization. It helps ensure that only authorized individuals can enter certain areas, protecting people, data, and property. However, simply installing an access control solution is not enough. Regular audits are essential to verify that the system is functioning correctly, aligned with company policies, and capable of resisting modern security threats.
At XTEN-AV, we believe that a well-audited system is a secure system. Whether you are managing a small business or a large enterprise, conducting a security audit of your Access Control System will reveal potential vulnerabilities, compliance gaps, and opportunities for improvement. This blog provides a practical step-by-step guide to help you run an effective audit.
Why You Need a Security Audit
Even the most advanced Access Control System can fail if it is not regularly tested and reviewed. A security audit helps to:
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Ensure user permissions are up to date
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Detect unauthorized access or suspicious activity
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Verify hardware and software integrity
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Identify gaps in policy enforcement
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Maintain compliance with legal and industry standards
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Plan for future upgrades or changes
Without an audit, outdated credentials, software bugs, or poor access practices can go unnoticed, putting your business at risk.
Step 1: Define the Scope and Goals
Before diving into the details, clarify what you want to achieve from the audit. Define the scope by listing which buildings, rooms, and access points will be reviewed. Determine whether the focus is on physical security, compliance, performance, or a full system evaluation.
Key goals might include:
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Verifying that only authorized personnel have access
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Checking that user roles and permissions are current
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Confirming that the hardware is functioning as expected
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Reviewing data logs for anomalies
Establish a timeline and assign responsibilities so everyone knows what to expect.
Step 2: Review Access Policies and Documentation
Start by reviewing your organization’s access control policies. Make sure your documented procedures align with how the system is currently used.
Look for:
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User roles and access level definitions
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Visitor and contractor access procedures
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Response protocols for lost or stolen credentials
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Door schedules and restricted time zones
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Employee onboarding and offboarding policies
Any mismatches between policy and practice should be flagged for correction.
Step 3: Analyze the User List
One of the most critical aspects of any audit is the user database. In many systems, credentials are not removed when employees leave or roles change, creating serious security risks.
What to check:
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Are there inactive users still listed?
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Do current permissions match employee roles?
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Are there duplicate or shared credentials?
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Are guest credentials still active beyond their intended use?
Deactivate or remove outdated credentials and update user roles as needed.
Step 4: Inspect Physical Hardware
Physically inspect the access control devices at every key entry point. This includes card readers, biometric scanners, locks, keypads, and control panels.
What to look for:
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Signs of tampering or wear
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Devices that are unresponsive or slow
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Loose wiring or poorly secured panels
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Backup power supplies or battery status
Also, ensure that emergency exits are properly functioning and not blocked. A secure system must also be safe in emergencies.
Step 5: Test the System
Conduct real-world tests to see if the Access Control System responds correctly.
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Try accessing doors with revoked credentials
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Attempt access outside of approved hours
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Test if doors lock and unlock on schedule
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Simulate a power outage to verify system behavior
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Trigger forced entry alarms to test alert responses
Document the results and fix any inconsistencies or failures.
Step 6: Review Access Logs and Reports
Access logs offer a detailed look at who entered where and when. Analyze this data to uncover suspicious activity or compliance gaps.
Things to examine:
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Frequent denied access attempts
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Unusual access patterns or off-hour activity
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Repeated failed login attempts from admins
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Users accessing areas outside their normal duties
Set up automated alerts for repeated red flags and adjust access rules if necessary.
Step 7: Evaluate System Settings and Software
Log into the backend of your Access Control System and review the system settings.
Review the following:
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Firmware and software versions—are they current?
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Are password and authentication settings strong enough?
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Is the system integrated with other platforms securely?
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Are updates applied automatically or manually?
If your system is cloud-based, ensure that encryption and data backup protocols are active and meet security standards.
Step 8: Verify Compliance with Regulations
Depending on your industry, you may need to meet certain security standards or legal requirements, such as:
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HIPAA (healthcare)
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PCI-DSS (finance)
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GDPR (data privacy)
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ISO 27001 (information security)
Confirm that your access policies, data retention, and user verification processes are in compliance with these standards. Keep documentation ready for any external audits.
Step 9: Interview Key Personnel
Talk to staff members who interact with the system daily—security officers, IT personnel, facility managers, and general employees. Ask:
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Are they aware of the access policies?
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Do they feel the system is easy and secure to use?
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Have they encountered recent issues or frustrations?
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Do they receive proper training on using the system?
Employee feedback can reveal blind spots and help improve both system design and training practices.
Step 10: Document Findings and Create an Action Plan
Once the audit is complete, compile all observations, test results, and recommendations into a formal report. Use this report to create an action plan that prioritizes:
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Immediate fixes (hardware repairs, software updates)
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Policy updates and staff retraining
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Scheduled maintenance improvements
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Long-term upgrades or expansions
Assign deadlines and owners for each action to ensure follow-through.
Final Thoughts
Conducting a thorough security audit of your Access Control System is not just a best practice—it is a necessity in today’s threat landscape. Regular audits help close security gaps, maintain compliance, and ensure that your access system is doing its job effectively.
At XTEN-AV, we design and support smart access solutions that evolve with your needs. From system installation to post-deployment audits, we are your partner in building a secure and future-ready environment. Make audits part of your routine and take control of your security with confidence.
Read more: https://audiovisual.hashnode.dev/why-every-security-system-needs-design-principles