Security in Hybrid Offices: 24/7 Access Control Solutions

The transformation of the work environment in recent years has made the hybrid office model — a combination of in-person and remote work — the norm for many companies. This new paradigm offers numerous benefits, but also significant challenges in terms of security, access management, and space control.

In this context, intelligent 24/7 access control has become an essential element to guarantee the physical and digital security of organisations. In this article, we explore how modern solutions allow hybrid offices to be managed efficiently, securely, and seamlessly.

The Challenge of Security in Hybrid Environments

Traditionally, offices operated with fixed hours, a reception staff, and physical keys. In a hybrid model, this changes radically:

• Employees enter and leave at different times.
• Some days the office is half-empty, others it is full.
• External personnel (suppliers, technicians, cleaning staff) need occasional access.
• Some companies rent shared workspaces or flexible offices.

In this context, physical keys become inefficient, and relying on a receptionist or concierge is costly and not very scalable.

What Does 24/7 Access Control Involve?

A 24/7 access control solution must:

• Allow entry at any time, even outside traditional business hours.
• Record who enters, at what time, and for how long.
• Adapt to different types of users: employees, suppliers, visitors, etc.
• Operate without the need for on-site staff.
• Integrate with other systems: cameras, alarms, management systems.

And above all: it must be secure, easy to use, and scalable.

Modern Solutions: From PIN Code to Mobile App

Today, there are multiple technologies that allow access to be managed without keys. The most common include:

1. Temporary PIN codes

These allow access to be granted for a specific time slot or for a limited number of uses. Ideal for occasional visits or suppliers.

Real-world example:
A graphic design company in Madrid uses Raixer to grant access to the cleaning team every Tuesday between 8:00 PM and 10:00 PM. A PIN is generated that is only valid within that time range, without the need to hand over keys or have staff present.

2. Mobile application

Employees can open doors from their smartphone, securely and with a record. The app can even be used to manage permissions, send invitations, or schedule future access.

Real-world example:
A technology startup with offices in Barcelona and Valencia allows its employees to access either office with their Raixer app. The app detects if they have permission and activates the opening with a single tap.

3. NFC cards or tags

Functions like a “digital key ring”. Useful for companies that still want a physical device, but without the disadvantages of traditional keys.

Real-world example:
A coworking space in Málaga provides NFC tags to fixed office users, and temporary codes to flexible desk users, thus controlling different levels of access.

4. Voice control or virtual assistants

In some cases, solutions integrate with assistants like Alexa or Google Assistant, allowing access through voice commands.

Advantages of Digital Access for Hybrid Offices

Total flexibility

Allows the use of the office to be adapted to each employee's reality. It is no longer necessary to have someone at reception or to be aware of who has copies of the keys.

Cost savings

Eliminates duplicate keys, locksmith costs, on-site reception, and reduces the risk of theft or unauthorised access.

Record and traceability

Every entry is recorded: who, when, how. Ideal for complying with security regulations and internal audits.

Scalability

From a small office of 5 people to a multinational with offices in different cities. The system adapts.

How to Implement a 24/7 Access Control System

1. Initial audit

Analyse how many access points you need to control: main entrance, interior doors, parking, meeting rooms, etc.

2. Choose the right technology

For hybrid offices, it is ideal to combine different methods: mobile app for employees, PINs for guests, tags for frequent users, etc.

3. Install compatible locks or devices

Raixer, for example, can integrate with existing locks or replace them with compatible smart models.

4. Define permissions

You can grant permanent, temporary, time-slot specific, or day-specific access. You can also revoke access in real-time.

5. Integration with other systems

Connect access control with alarms, cameras, sensors, or climate control systems to automate the office.

Use Case: Hybrid Company with Coworking Office

Company: Technology consultancy with 20 employees
Location: Coworking space in Madrid
Problem: The space is shared with other companies, and employees work different shifts. There are frequent visitors and weekend access is required.

Solution implemented with Raixer:

• Each employee has access from the app.
• Meeting rooms have PIN access activated with reservations.
• The maintenance team enters only on Sundays with single-use codes.
• Management can monitor all access from the administration panel.

Result: The company completely eliminated physical keys, improved traceability, and reduced management costs.

Security: Is Digital Access Reliable?

One common fear is security. However, modern systems like Raixer use encrypted protocols, two-step verification, and secure servers. In addition:

• Access can be blocked immediately.
• Temporary codes have automatic expiry.
• You can receive real-time notifications of unauthorised access.

In many cases, digital access is more secure than a traditional key, which can be lost, copied, or fall into the wrong hands.

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The hybrid work model is here to stay, and with it, the need for flexible, secure, and always-available access solutions. Investing in a 24/7 access control system not only enhances security but also optimises resources, reduces costs, and improves the experience for employees and visitors.

Raixer offers a robust, adaptable solution that is prepared for the future of work. If your company is transitioning to a hybrid model, it is the ideal time to digitalise access too.

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