Unlocking the Possibilities

  • By Julia Kamody
  • Aug 04, 2025

Security needs continue to evolve and end users are under pressure to address emerging risks and safety concerns. For many, that focus starts with upgrading perimeter openings and layering technologies—beginning at the door.

The goal is clear: Tackle upgrades and retrofits quickly, cost-effectively and with minimal disruption—while raising the level of protection through advanced access control technologies. Today’s products are engineered to help future-proof security systems, offering features and capabilities that minimize the need for major modifications.

Advancing to higher levels of door security is easier than you might think. Modular, backwards-compatible components give systems integrators a clear path for upgrading mechanical openings to electrified access—while offering improvements in energy efficiency, lock strength and compact design. Wireless technology adds even more flexibility, with faster transmission speeds and longer signaling ranges through simple hub-to-device communication.

There is also opportunity to extend electrified solutions beyond traditional doors and openings. Smart, connected locking devices now support critical infrastructure—such as traffic control cabinets, utility enclosures and other specialty applications requiring audit trails and cyber-secure encryption.

In emerging data centers and IT environments, server cabinet locks integrate with enterprise access control software to provide real-time visibility into the status and health of connected devices—helping ensure uptime, compliance and accountability.

While traditional mechanical hardware still plays a key role, today’s integrators should evaluate opportunities to move users toward digital technologies that offer real-time monitoring, management and control of the opening. Many modern digital technologies also support remote programming and diagnostics—such as rebooting or resetting power—without requiring an expensive truck roll or on-site service call.

Additional benefits of electrified hardware include greater opening integrity and the ability to integrate with network-connected access platforms for a centralized, one-window view of access activity.

Where to Upgrade
Retrofit options span a variety of technologies and form factors. For integrators looking to maintain an existing mechanical lockset, possibilities include electrified trim or electrified locksets—offering access control without requiring a full replacement. Electrified deadbolts/deadlatches are another upgrade path, combining the convenience of a latch with the added protection of a deadbolt, while still meeting fire code egress requirements.

When pulling wire is not feasible or cost-effective, battery-operated keyless entry solutions are a practical alternative. These standalone devices can secure access-controlled openings that do not require transaction data. For narrow-stile aluminum and glass doors, deadlocks, deadlatches and exit devices can also be retrofitted with battery-operated keyless entry and even contactless readers—adding another layer of protection at the opening without major modifications.

Electromagnetic locks, or maglocks, continue to serve as a reliable option for high-security and high-traffic openings. Known for their durability and minimal maintenance, maglocks meet current life safety and fire codes and come in a wide range of styles, finishes and intelligent features. Many models now include integrated motion sensors built into the lock body, reducing the need for separate components mounted above the door.

Maglocks are also a strong fit for interior doors where aesthetics and security go hand in hand. Bracketed maglocks designed for glass doors can be mounted at the header of outswing openings and easily controlled with a keypad or card reader. Surface-mounted digital lock systems can be used on single- or double-glass doors to complete the keyless access control solution.

For exterior openings, electric strikes offer an easy migration to electrification and a seamless way to connect to an existing access control system with a card reader or keypad. Integrators can also upgrade by adding an exit device to pair with existing trim and an electric strike or adding an exit device with electric latch retraction.

Set the Security Bar Higher
Manufacturers have paved the way for attainable retrofits that transition mechanical locks to keyless, electrified and even secure wireless configurations. Modular product portfolios cover a wide range of applications, allowing installers to customize access control solutions at the door based on specific needs.

In electric strikes, for example, surface-mounted or low-profile models enable simple installation within the existing mechanical prep—eliminating or reducing the need for cutting or drilling the frame. Features like integrated adjustability and adaptable voltage sensing technology help overcome common installation challenges and reduce complexity on the job.

As users face new safety and security demands, the door opening often becomes a natural place to consider an upgrade. A wide range of locking devices and electronic solutions are available to support both new installations and phased upgrades—providing flexibility, reliability and long-term value.

With continued innovation in door hardware and access control, systems integrators can position themselves as full-service solution providers—who can meet the most challenging or unique openings while helping elevate the overall security of the facility.

This article originally appeared in the July / August 2025 issue of Security Today.

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