Paxton has updated the Paxton Key app within the Paxton10 system, enabling smart devices to be used as contactless access tokens, along with new remote site management functionality. Throughout 2020 there was a change in the way people accessed work buildings and public spaces. Social distancing measures to fight against the spread of COVID-19 means access control and site video management are technologies which make a difference to public health and the stabilisation of businesses in 2021.
As society operates in COVID-Secure ways, many people are returning to work, so steps are required to ensure increased safety. Paxton Key works with Paxton10 readers, PaxLock Pro and Entry panels using four simple steps. A smartphone, tablet or smartwatch sends an encrypted access request over a range of 10 metres. The Paxton10 reader connects and Bluetooth credentials are exchanged. As a result of the transactions, access is either granted or denied.
The app enhances site security via personal identification and verification. When using the dual authentication process, a Paxton10 system can require a user to present their smart credential and then verify their identity. This works using the biometric capabilities already available in a user’s device such as fingerprint scanning or facial recognition.
Thomas Faith, Senior Product Manager for Paxton10, stated, ‘The new update to Paxton Key is exciting and truly ground-breaking. It utilises the latest smart device technology and provides users with seamless access by using background Bluetooth capabilities. This process enhances security by allowing an individual biometric verification, without storing a user’s personal data.’
The emphasis on Paxton Key is simplicity and ease of use. The app has been designed to function in a logical way, continuing to run in the background, ready for use. The update has also been optimised not to reduce a device’s battery life.
Paxton has also released an update to the web-based Paxton10 software. The update offers a new remote management functionality allowing integrators and installers to re-boot Paxton hardware, as well as delete and reinstate any database stored locally on the hardware, remotely.
The update also introduces new video management features. Privacy Masking allows areas caught on camera which the user does not wish to record to be masked. Improved image recording features include WDR control and manual switching between day and night modes.
Gareth O’Hara, Paxton’s Chief Sales Officer, added, ‘Our Smart Credentials are free with no hidden subscription costs and are sent in an instant. The benefits and convenience of contactless access control have been well documented prior to, and even more so during, the pandemic. Being able to provide access credentials without having touch points not only offers users convenience, but also ensures they reduce the risk of infection to themselves and others.’
