Master Key Systems

Make premises more secure and building management more efficient 

What is a master key system?

In a master key system, every key can unlock one or several openings. Each key’s reach is determined by their position in a carefully designed hierarchy.

Keys may be issued according to authority or function. For example, the CEO and security manager hold a master key which unlocks everything. IT staff keys unlock the server room and its contents, but no other offices or services. Cleaners can unlock every room, but cannot access cupboards, machines or letterboxes.

When properly configured, a master key system is secure, flexible, scalable, convenient and cost-effective.

How does a master key system benefit me?

How does a master key system benefit me?

A master key system helps you manage and filter access to multiple openings without software or wiring. Everyone opens the doors they need without carrying multiple keys. Only those with authorization get in.

Because a single key may operate multiple locks, effective master key system design reduces the number of keys you need to cut, track and replace at your organization. It saves you time and money.

A master key system frees building users from bulky keyrings and saves them time hunting for the right key. Users enjoy the convenience of carrying one key to unlock doors, lockers, letterboxes, padlocks, cabinets and more.

And with fewer keys in circulation, the problem of lost and stolen keys is reduced.

Implementing your master key system

Implementing your master key system

An effective master key system starts with understanding the size and complexity of the access permission levels you need.

You must account for all entry and exit points across a site which need keyed locks. A security hierarchy is then created to establish who may enter which areas. 

Master key systems are popular choices due to their convenience and affordability – and because they offer an easy, scalable solution for many sites. Your chosen system must be flexible enough to incorporate potential extensions, so additional user groups can be easily added.

It is also important to record who has been issued with keys, as well as to establish in advance who is responsible for issuing new access permissions.

The importance of patent protection

The importance of patent protection

A master key system’s legal protection against unauthorized key copying is achieved through patent protection.

If keys are misplaced or duplicated without your knowledge, a master key system could become compromised. For this reason, master key systems with a long-life patent are recommended for maximum protection.

When the manufacturer controls key copying, opportunities for illegal key cutting are limited. In the event of unauthorized duplication, patent protection enables legal action to be taken

In addition, the distribution of registered key blanks – only supplied to system owners through registered dealers – maintains a high level of security around master key suites. 

ASSA ABLOY: Trust the original

ASSA ABLOY Group companies have been manufacturing locks and keys for more than 140 years.

ASSA ABLOY master key systems are built on decades of investment and innovation in security technology. They meet the toughest requirements of standards such as EN 1303 and resist cylinder attack. Patent protection makes unauthorized key copying illegal.

Our proud history of invention includes the Euro profile cylinder. Patented by an ASSA ABLOY company in 1928, it has become an industry standard in Europe and beyond.

Discover a choice of mechanical cylinders and intuitive software to create your master key system

  • CYS10 Sawn Key System

    Our range for large master key systems, with up to 63 profiles, is flexible, secure and efficient 

  • CY110 Dimple Key System

    The affordable step up to a master key system provides performance on every level

  • CY100 Dimple Key System

    Our range for residential applications and small master key systems, with up to 4 profiles

Read our latest MKS stories

From customer success stories discussing the efficiencies that our master key systems have delivered to sites across Europe and beyond, to articles about our history of trust and innovation, you'll find this content below.

  • Customer case

    Flexible ASSA ABLOY CYS10 Master Key System protects an Italian resort

    2024-05-06

  • Access story

    European standards, certification and patents for mechanical locking

    2024-02-09

  • Access story

    Behind every ASSA ABLOY key lies a history of innovation and trust

    2023-05-30

  • Access story

    TV report shows how Key Studio software speeds up master key system ordering

    2023-03-16

  • Customer case

    CY110 master key system offers the organization that a Munich apartment building needs

    2022-12-14

  • Customer case

    A Belgian lock retailer streamlines their Master Key System service with Key Studio

    2022-10-25

  • Customer case

    ASSA ABLOY CY110 Master Key System protects a major new Turkish hospital

    2022-07-18