What is a common characteristic of zones in access control?

A common characteristic of zones in access control is that they can have flexible access permissions. This means that different individuals or groups can be granted varying levels of access based on their roles or needs within an organization. This flexibility allows organizations to implement a more granular and effective security strategy, ensuring that only authorized personnel can enter specific areas, while also accommodating changes in permissions as roles change or as temporary access is needed for special events or projects.

In contrast to this concept, zones are not always patrolled by security, as reliance on monitoring systems can often replace the need for constant human oversight. They do not allow unrestricted access, since the definition of a zone in access control inherently involves designated access that is controlled and limited to specific users. Finally, while physical barriers can be a part of access zones, they are not limited to just those barriers, as electronic systems and procedures play a significant role in how access is managed and enforced within those zones.