Managing User Codes On Your Intrusion Alarm Monitoring System
Every intrusion alarm monitoring system requires a code that is used to arm and disarm the alarm system. This code is typically four to six digits, and needs to be entered through a keypad. Any person who utilizes one of these systems knows that using and managing these codes is an important part of getting the most out of the system.
What is a System Code?
A system code is a four to six-digit numbered password that is used to arm and disarm your security system as well as provide you access to perform various other functions within the system. The primary reason these codes exist is to ensure that the person using the system is meant to have access to it. Only authorized individuals should have system codes to interact with the system.
In some cases, a System Administrator can restrict a codes’ access to specific functions and/or areas of the building.
How To Choose a System Code
As a basic rule of thumb, any code that you utilize should be one that is easy for the user to remember but still difficult to be guessed. Remember, the goal is to prevent unauthorized access into your building.
It’s also advisable that a System Administrator retain a record of all of the user codes and the names of those that utilize them; this can be helpful in cross referencing against events or incidents.
Four Types of System Codes
There are many different types of codes that can be used with intrusion alarm monitoring systems. Here are the four most common:
- Master Code – This is the primary code a System Administrator will commonly use. It has the ability to perform security functions and manage administration of the system. This code should only reside with the System Administrator.
- User Code – These codes can arm and disarm the system along with any other specific areas or functions assigned to it. A User Code should only be provided to an individual who needs regular access to the building. They should not be given permissions to adjust important settings and configurations within the system. A unique user code should be given to each unique user of the system.
- Guest Code – This is an access code with restricted access that is meant to be used on a temporary basis. This code should only be utilized by a user who requires brief access to the system such as a contractor or maintenance person.
- Duress Code: this is a unique code that discretely sends a signal to a Signals Receiving Centre to let them know that help is needed immediately. This code is rarely used, and is only meant to provide assistance in threatening situations.
Why It’s Important to Manage User Codes
How you manage these codes is important for a couple of reasons:
- If there is a security incident at your building, you will need to review the signals that were sent from the panel as well as the unique users who were involved with the system around those dates and times.
- In the event that an employee needs to be removed from the system, you will need to know which user code was assigned to them.
Methods to Manage User Codes On Your Intrusion Alarm Monitoring System
- If you are a System Administrator and are adding and removing codes yourself, keep a record of which user occupies which user slot. This will assist you if you need to quickly add or remove a user from the system.
- Place all of your user codes in a secure location. Losing these codes could allow them to fall into the wrong hands, leaving your building vulnerable.
- If you utilize contractors who require a User Code, ensure that you change the codes any time they have changes in staff. This ensures that their former employees do not have access to your building.
- Stay in communication with your security alarm monitoring company when it comes to adding and removing users from your security alarm monitoring system.
- Leave it to the pros and let your security alarm monitoring company manage your user codes. This ensures codes are added and removed properly and that accurate records are kept.
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If you have questions about your security alarm system and now to properly manage user codes, please contact us at 1 888 789 FIRE (3473), email fminfo@fire-monitoring.com, or fill out the contact form below.