We see them in movies, futuristic spaceships, government buildings, and sort of wish they were in more places. Sleek suited men press their fingers and sometimes entire hands to cool blue scanners while others stand self-satisfied as their eyes are scanned for entry through automatic silver doors. This kind of technology is admired by those who see it in action on screen and in person. Security of this stature seems to instill within us a true feeling of confidence and safety. We would no doubt feel very well protected if these systems were implemented in our schools, jobs, and even homes.
While fingerprint scanning seems to still be a fairly advanced method of security and identification, the iris is actually considered the most ideal part of the human body for such purposes. Because fingerprints differ so greatly from human to human they are excellent for use in touch security systems. Known for use in extremely private or guarded places, they have succeeded in securing areas and buildings from a variety of dangers. However, because fingertips and hands are known to age and change in appearance after years of some types of labor, fingerprint scanning systems may not be the best idea in the long run.
The iris on the other hand, is protected against damage by the cornea and will be recognized the same throughout its lifetime. Although the effect on infrared rays from scanners may be negative on the eyes, this system is more reliable than fingerprint scanning and has been implemented in many different places worldwide.
Schipol Airport in the Netherlands allows passport free immigration because of iris recognition while the UK allows registered travelers to enter through certain barriers once their irises have been scanned and approved. Companies such as Google also use iris scanners to control access to their data centers along with other rooms and buildings.
Some iris scanners can indeed be fooled by images but only if conditions are at a low and if the system itself was cheaply designed. For the most part however, iris scanners help make things easier in terms of security and protecting employees, businesses, and various places worldwide.