Automating Access Control for a B&B – Secure, Smart and Guest-Friendly

May 7, 2025 4 min read

Toegangscontrole automatiseren voor een B&B: veilig, slim en gastvriendelijk

As a bed & breakfast owner, you want to give your guests a warm welcome – without having to be there 24/7. Modern access control makes that possible. With smart systems, guests can let themselves in using a code, a tag or even their smartphone. No more juggling keys or in-person check-ins.

In this article we show you how to fully automate access to a B&B using technology from Anviz, YLI, Akuvox and Safire. From door release to cloud management, we cover every component step by step.

1. Why access control for a B&B?

B&Bs have different requirements from hotels or private homes. You want a combination of security, convenience and flexibility – for yourself as well as for your guests.

Benefits of smart access control for B&Bs:

Guests arrive whenever they like, without keys
Temporary access codes can be set up quickly
No risk of lost or copied keys
Everything can be managed remotely
Suitable for one room or several

A professional access control system also gives your accommodation a more polished image.

2. What do you need for an automated system?

The basic setup:

Electric lock or electromagnetic lock (YLI)
Access reader or keypad (Anviz, Akuvox)
Controller or smart intercom (for remote management)
Power supply, backup and enclosure
(Optional) smartphone app or cloud portal

With these components you can build a fully self-contained system that works with RFID/NFC tags, PIN codes, mobile access or even facial recognition.

3. Choosing the right door lock (YLI)

A reliable electric lock is crucial. YLI specialises in electromagnetic locks and door magnets for access control.

Options for B&Bs:

YLI YM-280N(LED): magnetic lock with 280 kg holding force, status LED and feedback
YLI YB-500B(LED): electrically operated deadbolt, ideal for wooden doors

Note: for outdoor use, the housing must be waterproof or protected with a cover.

Also fit a door closer so the door closes automatically and locks again.

4. Smart readers and keypads (Anviz & Akuvox)

Anviz: rugged and versatile

Anviz offers standalone and networked access readers with PIN code, RFID, NFC and even fingerprint.

Recommended models:

Anviz M5 Pro: IP65, RFID + PIN code, works standalone or with a controller
Anviz C2 Slim: networked, with colour display, event log and time schedules

Akuvox: high-end and cloud-based

Akuvox combines intercom and access control in a single device. Ideal for B&Bs that want to offer a premium experience.

Top model:

Akuvox E12W: compact, with RFID, QR code scanner, SIP intercom and support for the Akuvox SmartPlus app

Guests receive a QR code or digital key and open the door with their smartphone.

5. Automating access management (Safire & Anviz)

To manage access times, logs and users, you use a controller or cloud software. Both Safire and Anviz offer powerful solutions for this.

Safire tip:

Safire SF-VIMOD-KA: video intercom + access controller
Supports RFID, facial recognition and app management

Anviz tip:

Use the CrossChex software to link codes and access cards to time schedules per room or booking.

Automation examples:

Guests receive a code by email 24 hours before arrival
The code expires automatically at check-out time
You get a notification when a door is opened

6. Real-world example: one front door, three guest rooms

Setup:

1 main entrance with Akuvox reader + magnetic lock
3 interior doors with Anviz M5 or YB500 locks
Central controller (Anviz) connected to your Wi-Fi network
App for monitoring and access assignments

Guests receive:

An email with an access code or QR link
Instructions on arrival time and the digital key
Self check-in, without you needing to be there

The app lets you keep track of arrivals and check-outs.

7. Security, reliability and emergencies

A frequently asked question: what happens during a power cut or system failure?

Use a UPS (uninterruptible power supply) for controllers and locks
Choose locks with a fail safe or fail secure function (e.g. magnetic lock vs. deadbolt)
Provide an emergency mechanism or physical key as a backup

Also important: enable event logs so you can always check who entered and when.