The future of access in QR codes?

Most of us have already used a QR code — perhaps to quickly open a website or make a mobile payment. More recently, QR codes have also been used to verify vaccination or test status. But few people know that QR codes can also be used for building access control. What are the advantages of this solution and how does it differ from others?

It works very simply. The access control system administrator sends a code to the visitor via email or SMS. The visitor then simply shows the QR code on their smartphone screen to a reader or video intercom at the building entrance. This elegant solution is best suited for remote, one-time or time-limited access. There is no need for physical meetings, handing over RFID cards, or returning them later. Once the defined time period expires, the QR code automatically becomes invalid.

Using QR codes allows system administrators to conveniently define different access permissions and restrictions for different visitors. Within seconds, they can set whether access is one-time or recurring, define time windows, and specify which doors the code will unlock. For example, a courier may receive one-time access only to the main entrance, a cleaner may receive scheduled recurring access with restricted zones, and a technician may be granted access only to a specific floor.

QR codes are increasingly used beyond office environments. Today, they can be used via mobile apps to grant temporary access to guests — for example, a friend watering your plants while you are away. Of course, this requires a QR reader or a modern video intercom installed at the premises.

3 biggest advantages of QR codes in access control systems

Remote provisioning — no physical meeting is required; everything is done online. The QR code is sent via email or SMS.
Contactless entry — users do not need to touch any device; they simply present their smartphone near a reader or camera.
Keyless method — no physical credentials (keys or RFID cards) are required, only a smartphone.

Will QR codes replace RFID and biometrics?

Let’s compare QR codes with other widely used access control technologies:

PIN code vs QR code

Both technologies are suitable for temporary access. PIN codes are easy to distribute, but can also be easily shared with unauthorized users. QR codes provide contactless authentication and require only a smartphone or video intercom for scanning.

RFID vs QR code

RFID cards remain widely used, but are less convenient for temporary access scenarios. They require physical handover and retrieval. QR codes eliminate the need for physical credentials, but can be shared digitally.

Biometrics vs QR code

Biometric access is convenient but raises privacy and security concerns. It is also unsuitable for temporary access because biometric data cannot be easily shared or revoked. In addition, biometric systems are expensive to deploy.

Bluetooth vs QR code

Bluetooth-based mobile access offers similar benefits: remote provisioning, contactless entry, and keyless operation. However, it requires a dedicated mobile app, which may be inconvenient for temporary visitors.

Conclusion

QR codes are a fast and convenient solution for one-time or temporary access. For regular users, other technologies may be more suitable. Modern access control systems allow combining multiple methods, making them more flexible and efficient.

You can benefit from QR-based access solutions with systems from the European manufacturer 2N. For consultation on 2N products in Ukraine, contact InfoTel — a system IT integrator of telecommunications and information solutions since 2004.