5 Things you Need to know about Access Control Solutions

Access control software is a powerful digital application that enables you to effortlessly manage and grant access privileges to buildings, spaces, rooms, files, and sensitive documents. With robust features, an intuitive interface, and best-in-breed partners and integrations you can confidently ensure the security and protection of your two most valuable assets: people and things.

If you care about security, compliance, or business efficiency, here are 5 things you need to know about access control solutions:

1. Types of Access Control Software

Software leads the customer experience. With a robust Access Control System, you can view/change employee permissions, keep a record of which employee has accessed which data, and keep areas secure. There are three common ways to deploy access control solutions:

On-Premises

On-premises access control software is installed and runs on devices within the premises of an organization. This method provides high levels of security and control as all data is stored in-house. The organization has complete ownership over its security systems, making it nearly impossible to access remotely. Typically, these software solutions are procured as part of a comprehensive access control system. It is a method normally used in large organizations, universities, warehouses, and government facilities.

Cloud-Based

The provider's cloud network hosts these access control solutions, enabling seamless access from any location via the Internet. These solutions involve storing the access control software on a remote server, granting administrators the convenience of accessing it from anywhere with an internet connection. This level of flexibility makes cloud-based solutions highly suitable for organizations with multiple locations or remote workers. With a centralized admin panel, you can efficiently manage your entire campus, even if it encompasses multiple buildings. While an internet connection is required for reviewing and updating the admin panel, the system hardware continues to function as commanded even without internet access. 

Cloud-based access control software offers the flexibility to future-proof your system and seamlessly integrate third-party hardware devices. Consider this option if you want a reliable, versatile, and scalable solution for your access control needs.

Hybrid

Hybrid solutions offer a unique blend of on-premises and cloud-based systems, combining the best of both worlds. By keeping critical data on-site, organizations can ensure maximum security and control. Meanwhile, less sensitive data can be stored in the cloud, providing greater accessibility and scalability. This strategic approach allows businesses to leverage the benefits of cloud technology while maintaining the necessary level of data protection. Organizations can seamlessly switch between cloud-based and on-premises components based on their specific needs and requirements. This dynamic adaptability empowers businesses to optimize their infrastructure and resources, ensuring optimal performance and efficiency.

2. Advantages of Cloud-Based Access Control Solutions

Although every system has its own advantages and drawbacks, the majority of the industry is transitioning towards a cloud-based approach. Numerous companies are discovering that this system offers them the necessary security and flexibility to achieve their objectives. Here are some of the key benefits of cloud-based access control software:

1. Complete Control from Anywhere: Software is accessed and managed from anywhere, providing users the flexibility to handle their security operations whether in the office or on the move.
2. Real-Time Monitoring: Users gain real-time insights into their security operations, ensuring they're always informed and up to date.
3. Simplified Security Management: Centralized control makes it easier to manage all security measures from one place, simplifying the process of maintaining a secure environment.
4. Business Intelligence: The software provides valuable data and insights that drive business growth and inform decision-making.
5. Enhanced Security and Privacy: Cloud-based solutions offer high levels of security, redundancy, and disaster recovery, protecting customer data and user privacy effectively.
6. Scalability and Flexibility: The open and scalable nature of cloud-based access control software allows organizations to easily adapt and expand security measures as needed.
7. Integration Capabilities: Software integrates with other security products and applications, providing a comprehensive and adaptable security solution.
8. Convenience and Mobility: Being able to access and manage the software from any device, anywhere, at any time provides great convenience and mobility to users.
9. Simplified System Updates: Cloud-based solutions offer automatic upgrades, eliminating the need for complex and time-consuming manual updates.
10. Increased Login Security: Multi-factor login protocols provide an increased level of login security when accessing the software

3. Access Control Solutions Reporting Features

Access control software reporting features provide crucial insights into the security operations of an organization. Reports enable users to monitor and analyze access data, helping them make informed decisions about security and compliance management. Here are some key reporting features typically found in access control software:

1. Event Logs: Logs provide a chronological record of all system events, including granted and denied access attempts, door openings and closings, alarm activations, and more.
2. Access Reports: Reports provide detailed information about who has accessed certain areas and when which can be useful for auditing and compliance purposes.
3. User Activity Reports: Reports track specific user activities, such as system logins and configuration changes, providing insights into user behavior and potential security threats.
4. System Health Reports: Reports monitor the status and performance of the access control system, highlighting any technical issues that need to be addressed.
5. Alarm Reports: Reports record all alarm events, including the cause of the alarm, the time it was triggered, and the response taken.
6. Visitor Management Reports: If the software includes a visitor management feature, these reports provide comprehensive data on visitor access, including visitor details, visit times, and visited areas.
7. Integration Reports: If the access control system is integrated with other systems (like video surveillance or intruder alarm systems), these reports can provide correlated data, offering a more holistic view of security events.

4. Business Efficiency Capabilities of Access Control Software

Process automation is key to business efficiency by improving communication, reducing labor hours, and reducing the possibility of errors.

Data exchange packages are configurable to import from multiple data sources like Active Directory Systems; Human Resources Systems; Student Information Systems; etc. Employee, student, or contractor data is now controlled from a single point of data entry and synchronized, making security updates fast and seamless. When employees are hired or leave the company, their access to the facility is automatically updated based on their employment status, department, or any other desired information. 

Another method of data exchange is with access control software that shares the API (Application Programming Interface).  Leveraging an open API improves business efficiency by allowing you to integrate with other software within your business.

Access control software notification capabilities include the ability to send text messages, emails, and broadcasts. Receiving a text message or broadcast for critical system alarms, like lockdowns, is a valuable communication tool. Scheduling email reports for system analysis or maintenance reports, like wireless locks with low batteries, allows for thoughtful planning.

5. Looking for top-notch access control software for your company is time consuming 

Don’t guess, know. Reshape your security perspective, explore new possibilities for productivity, and find innovative ways to meet your strategic business goals by being simply secure with acre security.

Rest assured, we're here to assist. Upgrading your access control software not only improves your organization's security but also enables you to monitor and manage access more effectively. We provide solutions for every security user case for every business, from small single-location requirements to multi-national and multi-tenant sites expanding the entire globe. 

At acre security, we offer access control solutions including on-premises, cloud-based, and hybrid options. Whether you prioritize seamless integration, real-time monitoring, or specific visitor management features, we have the right solution for you. Rest assured, we have the right blend of technology and architecture to meet your most challenging requirements, and our portfolio of solutions is built to serve the end-to-end physical security needs of our customers.

Discover how we created a robust, low-maintenance access control system to safeguard operations at Coca-Cola Hellenic.

Get in touch to see how we can help you reshape your security.