A Smart IoT-Based Door Access Management System Using Facial Verification

Abstract

Face recognition technology has emerged as an important advancement in modern security systems, offering a reliable and contactless method for user authentication. Earlier access control mechanisms primarily relied on physical keys, passwords, RFID cards, and biometric systems such as fingerprint scanners. Although these approaches improved security to some extent, they often suffered from limitations including key loss, password theft, card duplication, and physical contact requirements. As security threats continue to increase in residential, commercial, and institutional environments, there is a growing need for intelligent and automated access control solutions capable of providing higher levels of security, convenience, and real-time monitoring. To address these challenges, this study proposes an IoT-enabled face recognition–based door access control system that integrates facial authentication, automated door operation, cloud connectivity, and intrusion detection. The system utilizes a face recognition module to identify authorized individuals and communicates the authentication results to an ESP32 controller. Upon successful recognition, the controller operates a motorized door mechanism to grant access, while unauthorized attempts trigger a buzzer alarm and security notification. Through Wi-Fi communication, authentication events and intrusion alerts are transmitted to a cloud server for remote monitoring and record maintenance. The proposed framework enhances security by eliminating dependence on traditional keys and passwords while enabling contactless authentication and automated decision-making. Its ability to combine facial recognition, real-time alert generation, cloud-based event logging, and smart access management makes it a practical and scalable solution for modern smart homes, offices, laboratories, and other security-sensitive environments.