Key Studio Software
A complete digital solution for creating, ordering and maintaining master key systems
Master Key Systems
Make premises more secure and building management more efficient
What is a master key system?
In a master key system, every key can unlock one or several openings. Each key’s reach is determined by their position in a carefully designed hierarchy.
Keys may be issued according to authority or function. For example, the CEO and security manager hold a master key which unlocks everything. IT staff keys unlock the server room and its contents, but no other offices or services. Cleaners can unlock every room, but cannot access cupboards, machines or letterboxes.
When properly configured, a master key system is secure, flexible, scalable, convenient and cost-effective.
How does a master key system benefit me?
How does a master key system benefit me?
A master key system helps you manage and filter access to multiple openings without software or wiring. Everyone opens the doors they need without carrying multiple keys. Only those with authorization get in.
Because a single key may operate multiple locks, effective master key system design reduces the number of keys you need to cut, track and replace at your organization. It saves you time and money.
A master key system frees building users from bulky keyrings and saves them time hunting for the right key. Users enjoy the convenience of carrying one key to unlock doors, lockers, letterboxes, padlocks, cabinets and more.
And with fewer keys in circulation, the problem of lost and stolen keys is reduced.
Implementing your master key system
Implementing your master key system
An effective master key system starts with understanding the size and complexity of the access permission levels you need.
You must account for all entry and exit points across a site which need keyed locks. A security hierarchy is then created to establish who may enter which areas.
Master key systems are popular choices due to their convenience and affordability – and because they offer an easy, scalable solution for many sites. Your chosen system must be flexible enough to incorporate potential extensions, so additional user groups can be easily added.
It is also important to record who has been issued with keys, as well as to establish in advance who is responsible for issuing new access permissions.
The importance of patent protection
The importance of patent protection
A master key system’s legal protection against unauthorized key copying is achieved through patent protection.
If keys are misplaced or duplicated without your knowledge, a master key system could become compromised. For this reason, master key systems with a long-life patent are recommended for maximum protection.
When the manufacturer controls key copying, opportunities for illegal key cutting are limited. In the event of unauthorized duplication, patent protection enables legal action to be taken.
In addition, the distribution of registered key blanks – only supplied to system owners through registered dealers – maintains a high level of security around master key suites.
ASSA ABLOY: Trust the original
ASSA ABLOY Group companies have been manufacturing locks and keys for more than 140 years.
ASSA ABLOY master key systems are built on decades of investment and innovation in security technology. They meet the toughest requirements of standards such as EN 1303 and resist cylinder attack. Patent protection makes unauthorized key copying illegal.
Our proud history of invention includes the Euro profile cylinder. Patented by an ASSA ABLOY company in 1928, it has become an industry standard in Europe and beyond.
Discover intuitive software to create your master key system
Read our latest MKS stories
From customer success stories discussing the efficiencies that our master key systems have delivered to sites across Europe and beyond, to articles about our history of trust and innovation, you'll find this content below.
- News
Behind every ASSA ABLOY key lies a history of innovation and trust
2023-05-30
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