Access control systems have been very beneficial for people and businesses. They control who can gain entry into your home or office, and you can modify access from a remote location.

There are many different access control systems, most of which use keyless entry mechanisms (such as electronic locks, key codes and key fobs). While these systems are much more convenient than traditional locks, they have limitations when it comes to giving people temporary access.

For example, when you give someone a key fob or the access code to your electronic locks, the person will always have access to your premises until you either change the code or take back the key fob. For businesses such as hotels, you would also have to physically meet each guest and hand over the key fob/card to them during check-in.

This process is cumbersome and makes access control a lengthier process. Time-sensitive codes are the answer to this challenge.

Understanding time-sensitive codes

Simply put, a time-sensitive code is a temporary code that gives users access to your premises for only a specific duration. How does it work? You can use a software program to generate temporary codes for your guests or employees. The codes are delivered via an email, SMS or another relevant channel. They can be programmed to last for a few days, a few hours or a fixed number of entry/exits.

With this increased flexibility, your access control system can become more secure, convenient, and reliable for relevant users. For example, hotels can generate time-sensitive codes to meet the check-in and checkout dates of their guests. Time-sensitive codes also allow self-service providers (such as Air BnB's) to implement better access control for their premises.

Useful applications

You may be wondering where time-sensitive codes can be used. The following premises can enjoy better security, convenience and reliability with time-sensitive codes.

• Hotels

As previously mentioned, hotels can generate time-sensitive codes to match the period that each guest will stay. The codes can be emailed or sent to guests via text message. Once they check out, the code becomes inactive.

• Air BnB

If your property is part of the Air BnB network, time-sensitive codes are a must-have. They allow you to give the necessary access to your guests without having to physically meet them and hand over keys. Once the guests check out, the code becomes inactive.

• Business facilities 

Businesses can also use these codes to provide temporary access to staff and guests. For example, storage rooms and office spaces can be fitted with temporary codes that work only during business hours. For more information, contact a company like Commercial Locksmiths.