Access control is a security measure designed to regulate who is permitted to enter or use resources within a given area or system. It encompasses various methods and technologies, such as key cards, biometric scanners, and PIN codes, to ensure that only authorized individuals can gain access to restricted spaces or sensitive information.

Access control systems are essential for safeguarding physical locations, such as buildings and secure rooms, as well as digital environments, like computer networks and data repositories. By implementing access control, organizations can protect valuable assets, prevent unauthorized entry, and maintain operational integrity. Additionally, these systems often include features for tracking and logging access events, which can be critical for auditing and responding to security breaches.

Balancing security with convenience and user experience remains a key challenge in designing effective access control solutions.