GUARDTRACK: RFID and Wi-Fi based Smart Entry System

It is challenging to maintain effective and secure access control in modern workplaces due to unauthorized access, RFID tag cloning, and the vulnerabilities of single-layer authentication systems. Conventional methods, e.g., paper logs and independent RFID authentication, are vulnerable to security intrusions, identity spoofing, and employee tracking inefficiencies. To overcome these issues, this paper introduces GUARDTRACK, an IoT-based smart entry system that integrates Wi-Fi-based tracking and RFID-OTP authentication for enhanced security. The system consists of two prime parts. First, an ESP32 Wi-Fi module tracks the attendance of workers by recognizing static IP assignments when registered devices enter the network. Second, a Security Room authentication system requires workers to scan an RFID card, triggering an OTP (One-Time Password) delivered via a GSM module to be received at their registered telephone number. Entry is granted only after successful verification of OTP for providing multi-layered protection. Experimental testing confirms that GUARDTRACK securely blocks unauthorized access while permitting easy entry for authorized personnel. The system offers high tracking accuracy, real-time authentication, and high RFID cloning resistance, providing a cost-effective and scalable access control solution.