A biometric template is used as a digital representation of an individual's unique characteristics. This type of control is created from biometric samples that have been extracted from a particular person. Information for templates varies by system design; they include common biometrics, such as hand, voice, iris and facial modalities. Biometric inputs are typically reliable when comparing the new data to an individual's digital representation.
Modalities are used for various aspects of biometric controls. Each modality has advantages and disadvantages; for example, iris recognition must use computer technology for verification purposes. No one type of modality is best suited to implement in all security systems. Some types of biometric modalities, such as iris and head recognition, are still being developed and can be unreliable.
Implementing biometric security devices is an aspect of biometric control. Controlling access to physical locations or secure information can be accomplished through the use of biometric security. Biometric controls are used for boarding aircraft, accessing personal computers and for border security. Although reliable for use in these particular areas, biometrics is primarily used as an enhancement to traditional security technology and methods.
