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The Complete Guide to Door Entry Systems

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Whether you're securing a family home, a block of flats, or a busy commercial premises, a door entry system is one of the smartest security investments you can make.

In this guide, we cover everything from how door entry systems work and the different types available, to choosing the right system for your property, and answering the most commonly asked questions.

A door entry system is an electronic access control solution that manages who can enter a building or property. Rather than relying on a traditional key alone, a door entry system lets you verify a visitor's identity before granting access — either by speaking with them, viewing them on a video screen, or using credentials such as a key fob, PIN code, or smartphone app.

Door entry systems range from simple audio intercoms for a single front door, right through to sophisticated IP-networked video systems that control access across large apartment complexes, offices, and commercial buildings.

At their most fundamental level, almost all door entry systems consist of three core components:

 — the unit mounted near the door, housing a call button, microphone, and (in video systems) a camera

 — where the resident or member of staff receives the call and can speak to or view the visitor

 — which is triggered remotely to allow entry without physically opening the door

Home and business security has become a top priority for UK property owners. Burglary and attempted break-ins remain among the most common property crimes in England and Wales, and a door entry system addresses this risk at the very point of entry — the front door — before an intruder even has a chance to attempt access.

Beyond security, door entry systems offer real practical benefits:

 You can grant access to a delivery driver, tradesperson, or guest without leaving your desk, kitchen, or living room. Many modern systems even allow remote access via a smartphone app, so you can answer your door from anywhere.

 A visible door entry panel with a camera is a powerful deterrent. Opportunistic intruders are far less likely to attempt a break-in at a property that is clearly monitored.

 In multi-occupancy buildings — such as blocks of flats, housing associations, or office blocks — door entry systems allow precise control over who can access communal areas, specific floors, or individual zones.

 Video door entry systems with recording capability create a log of everyone who has visited your door — useful for both security reviews and insurance purposes.

 Modern IP-based door entry systems can integrate seamlessly with other security solutions, including CCTV cameras, burglar alarms, and smart home platforms.

Understanding the different categories of door entry system is the key to choosing the right solution for your property. Here's a breakdown of the main types available within the 

Alert Electrical door entry systems range

Audio door entry systems are the most straightforward option. They allow two-way voice communication between a visitor at the door and the occupant inside, with the occupant able to trigger an electric door release to grant entry.

Audio-only systems are ideal for lower-risk or budget-conscious installations where visual verification is not a priority. They are widely used in residential flats, small offices, and properties where the entry point is well lit and the visitor can be identified by voice alone.

Key advantages include cost-effectiveness, simple installation, low maintenance, and compatibility with electric door strikes and magnetic locks. Alert Electrical stocks audio door entry systems from trusted manufacturers, offering robust build quality suitable for both professional installers and competent DIYers.

Video door entry systems add a camera to the outdoor door station, allowing the indoor monitor to display a live image of the caller. This provides a significantly higher level of security, as you can visually confirm who is at your door before you speak to them or grant access.

Video systems are available in both wired and wireless configurations. Wired systems typically deliver a more stable, higher-quality picture and are well suited to permanent installations. Many video door entry systems now feature colour cameras with wide-angle lenses, night vision, motion detection, and image capture or video recording.

Video door entry systems are particularly well suited to homeowners who want to see callers before opening the door, families with children or elderly relatives who answer the door alone, landlords managing blocks of flats, and businesses that need to verify visitor identity before admitting anyone to the premises.

Wireless door entry systems communicate via radio frequency rather than physical cabling, making them considerably easier to install — particularly in older properties where running new wiring would be disruptive or impractical.

Modern wireless door entry systems offer impressive range and reliability, and many are compatible with Wi-Fi networks, enabling smartphone integration. Brands such as Ring and TCP Smart have made wireless video doorbells and entry systems highly accessible for residential users, and both are available within our range.

IP (Internet Protocol) door entry systems represent the most advanced category currently available. They transmit audio, video, and control signals over a standard network — either via ethernet cabling using Power over Ethernet (PoE), or over a Wi-Fi connection.

IP PoE door entry systems offer a range of significant advantages over traditional analogue systems:

 — easily expandable to cover additional entry points, floors, or buildings without complex rewiring

 — manage and monitor your system from a smartphone or tablet, anywhere in the world

 — connects with IP CCTV, access control, and building management systems for a fully unified security platform

 — superior resolution compared with analogue systems, delivering sharper, more detailed footage

 — a single network cable carries both power and data, simplifying cabling requirements

 is a strong example of a modern IP door entry platform designed for projects ranging from small domestic dwellings to large apartment blocks. The Aperta IP range includes single-way and multi-way outdoor stations, feature-rich video monitors, and full app integration — delivering improved performance over traditional 2-wire and 4-wire systems.

Door Entry Systems for Flats and Apartments

Multi-occupancy residential buildings have specific requirements that differ from single-dwelling installations. Door entry systems for flats must support multiple internal handsets or monitors — one per flat — all connected to the same outdoor door station (or several outdoor stations in larger buildings).

Systems designed for flat and apartment use allow each resident to independently speak with or view a caller, and to grant entry using their own indoor unit. Alert Electrical's range includes systems capable of supporting multiple monitors and controllers from a single entry point, making them ideal for housing associations, purpose-built blocks, and converted properties.

Commercial and Industrial Door Entry Systems

For office buildings, warehouses, schools, and other commercial environments, door entry systems often need to integrate with broader access control infrastructure — including keypad entry, proximity key fob or card readers, biometric access, and time-and-attendance logging.

Commercial installations frequently combine door entry with CCTV and intruder alarms to create a layered security approach. You can explore the full range of complementary products within our 

Alert Electrical partners with some of the most trusted names in door entry and access control.

 is one of the UK's most respected security product brands, with a comprehensive portfolio covering door entry, CCTV, and access control. The ESP Aperta range is specifically designed for door entry applications and covers analogue, IP, and PoE configurations. ESP products are well regarded by professional installers for their reliability, straightforward commissioning, and strong after-sales support.

 has become a household name in home video security, thanks to its market-leading video doorbells. Ring products use your existing Wi-Fi network, integrate with the Ring app, and work with Amazon Alexa voice control — offering an accessible entry point into smart home security for residential users.

 offers a range of connected home security products, including smart video doorbells that integrate with the TCP Smart app. TCP's devices are designed with ease of installation in mind, making them a solid choice for homeowners who prefer a DIY approach.

 is a long-established British brand with a strong reputation in home security. ERA's door entry and smart alarm products are designed to complement one another as part of a wider home security ecosystem.

The basic operation of a door entry system follows a simple sequence:

A visitor presses the call button on the outdoor door station.

The indoor monitor or handset rings to alert the occupant.

The occupant answers, viewing the caller on screen (video systems) or speaking via audio (audio systems).

If the occupant wishes to grant access, they press a door release button on their indoor unit.

The door release signal is sent to an electric door strike, magnetic lock, or electric bolt on the door, which releases and allows the door to be opened.

The visitor enters, and the door closes behind them — re-locking automatically if a door closer and self-latching lock are fitted as part of the installation.

In wireless and IP systems, this same process can occur via a smartphone app — meaning you don't need to be physically present at the indoor monitor to control who enters your property.

Wired vs Wireless Door Entry Systems: Which Is Right for You?

Choosing between a wired and wireless door entry system is one of the first decisions you'll need to make. Both have their merits, and the right choice depends on your property, your technical confidence, and your specific security requirements.

 use physical cabling — typically 2-wire or 4-wire — to connect the outdoor station to the indoor monitor and the door release mechanism. They are generally considered the more reliable option for permanent installations, as they are not susceptible to radio frequency interference or Wi-Fi connectivity issues. The trade-off is that installation is more involved, particularly in existing properties where running new cables may require some disruption.

 are considerably easier to install and are ideal for rental properties or situations where running cables is impractical. Modern wireless systems offer excellent range and reliability, and many integrate with smartphone apps for remote management.

 offer the best of both worlds in many respects — they use structured network cabling (Cat5e or Cat6) that is already present in many commercial buildings, whilst delivering the connectivity and integration benefits of an internet-connected system.

Commonly Asked Questions About Door Entry Systems

Door entry systems range considerably in price depending on type, complexity, and brand. A basic audio intercom for a single door can cost as little as £30–£50. A quality video door entry system for a domestic property typically falls in the £100–£300 range. Multi-occupancy and commercial IP systems can run from several hundred to several thousand pounds depending on the number of entry points, monitors, and features required. Alert Electrical offers a wide price range to suit every budget, with free delivery on all orders over £100.

Can I install a door entry system myself?

Many door entry systems — particularly wireless video doorbells and simpler audio intercoms — are designed with DIY installation in mind and come with clear instructions. Wired systems require a greater degree of confidence with electrical work and may be better handled by a professional installer, particularly for multi-occupancy or commercial applications. IP and PoE systems require familiarity with network infrastructure. If in doubt, we always recommend consulting a qualified electrician or security installer.

Can I connect a door entry system to my phone?

Yes — this is one of the most popular features of modern door entry systems. Wi-Fi video doorbells (such as those from Ring) connect directly to your smartphone via an app, sending you a notification whenever someone presses the bell and allowing you to see, hear, and speak to them in real time. IP-based systems also typically include app functionality for remote monitoring and door release. This means you can effectively answer your door from anywhere in the world, provided you have an internet connection.

Are door entry systems suitable for flats?

Absolutely. Door entry systems are among the most practical security solutions for blocks of flats and apartment buildings. Systems can be configured with a single outdoor door station and multiple indoor monitors — one for each flat — allowing each resident to independently receive calls and grant access. For larger buildings with multiple entry points, advanced IP systems can manage several doors and hundreds of residents from a single platform.

What is the difference between a door entry system and an access control system?

 primarily manages visitors — it facilitates communication between someone seeking entry and the occupant or receptionist who decides whether to allow access. An 

 manages the movement of authorised personnel using credentials such as key fobs, PIN codes, smart cards, or biometrics, without the need for human intervention each time. Many modern door entry solutions combine both functions, incorporating video intercoms for visitor management alongside credential-based access for regular users.

Can a door entry system be integrated with a CCTV system?

Yes — and this is increasingly common in commercial and multi-occupancy residential settings. IP door entry systems are designed to work alongside IP CCTV cameras, sharing the same network infrastructure and often the same monitoring software. This creates a unified security platform where you can view door activity and camera footage from a single interface.

A magnetic lock (mag lock) uses an electromagnet to hold a door closed. When power is applied, the magnet grips a metal armature plate on the door, keeping it secure. When the door release button is pressed, power is cut and the door can be opened. Mag locks are commonly used in commercial door entry installations and operate as a "fail-safe" mechanism — the door opens if power is lost, which is important for fire safety compliance. Note that "fail-secure" locks, which remain locked on power loss, also exist and are used in certain high-security commercial environments; your installer can advise on which is appropriate for your application. Alert Electrical stocks mag locks as part of its door entry accessories range.

The Complete Guide to Door Entry Systems

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