As organizations increasingly seek modern, flexible access control solutions, cloud-based systems are rising in popularity. These systems offer remote accessibility, scalability, and advanced security features, making them a strong alternative to traditional on-premise setups. But for businesses with existing infrastructure, adopting a new cloud-based access control solution that integrates seamlessly with legacy systems is crucial. Here, we’ll explore the best cloud-based access control solutions that can enhance and coexist with on-premise systems, helping businesses transition smoothly into hybrid access control environments.
Why Consider Cloud-Based Access Control?
Cloud-based access control systems bring many benefits, including:
• Remote Management: Access your system from anywhere, which is invaluable for managing multiple sites or remote properties.
• Scalability: Scale up without significant investment in additional hardware, easily adapting to the size of your organization.
• Reduced IT Costs: With data and system management offloaded to the cloud, the need for costly on-premise infrastructure and maintenance is reduced.
• Enhanced Security: Cloud systems are regularly updated with the latest security patches, reducing vulnerability risks.
Given these benefits, companies are increasingly adopting hybrid models that blend new cloud technology with existing on-premise hardware and controls.
Top Cloud-Based Access Control Systems for Hybrid Setups
1. Kisi
• Overview: Kisi offers a fully cloud-based access control system that integrates seamlessly with on-premise systems, particularly in environments where scalability and remote management are key. With their intuitive app, you can manage and monitor access in real-time from anywhere.
• Key Features: API integration, mobile access, detailed access logs, and customizable access permissions. Kisi is known for its flexibility, making it easy to adapt to existing hardware with minimal disruption.
• Best For: Companies looking to expand existing systems with mobile and remote capabilities without overhauling current infrastructure.
2. B-Line
• Overview: B-Line's cloud-based solution is designed for flexibility and user convenience, enabling hands-free entry through a mobile app. Its open API enables integration with various on-premise hardware systems, ensuring a seamless upgrade to cloud management.
• Key Features: Mobile unlock, touchless entry, visitor management, real-time security monitoring, AI assistance, and compatibility with any on-premise systems
• Best For: Organizations prioritizing touchless entry and real-time monitoring with a cloud solution that effortlessly integrates into legacy systems.
3. Brivo
• Overview: Brivo is a cloud-based access control and security platform known for its ease of use and remote management capabilities. Designed for flexibility, Brivo supports integrations with many on-premise access control systems and devices, making it an ideal choice for companies looking to transition without replacing existing infrastructure.
• Key Features: Cloud-based mobile access, video surveillance integration, and analytics tools. Brivo also supports integration with HR and visitor management systems.
• Best For: Businesses that need a robust, scalable access control system compatible with existing hardware for managing multiple locations.
4. Genetec Synergis
• Overview: Genetec’s Synergis system is an enterprise-level security solution that supports hybrid access control through its unified security platform. This system integrates with on-premise access control and other security systems, enabling comprehensive remote management.
• Key Features: Real-time monitoring, detailed access analytics, API integrations, and compatibility with a variety of third-party access control hardware.
• Best For: Large enterprises requiring an advanced security platform capable of unifying access control, video surveillance, and intrusion detection systems.
5. Salto KS
• Overview: Salto KS (Keys as a Service) offers cloud-based access control that adapts easily to existing on-premise systems. Salto KS is particularly popular in commercial and hospitality sectors, providing seamless cloud integration with on-premise infrastructure.
• Key Features: Remote access management, custom access rights, mobile key functionality, and robust API integrations.
• Best For: Companies in hospitality or coworking spaces looking for a cloud-based system that prioritizes ease of use and simple integration with on-premise access controls.
6. Nexkey
• Overview: Nexkey is an access control system focused on retrofitting existing door hardware with cloud-based capabilities. Its mobile-first approach allows for easy and flexible access management without a complete overhaul of on-premise systems.
• Key Features: Mobile access, retrofit solutions for existing locks, and real-time access insights. Nexkey offers an affordable and flexible approach for companies moving from purely physical to cloud-managed access.
• Best For: Small to mid-sized companies that want to modernize their access control with minimal disruption to current infrastructure.
Key Considerations for Choosing a Cloud-Based Access Control Solution
When choosing the right cloud-based access control system for integration with on-premise systems, keep the following factors in mind:
1. Compatibility with Existing Hardware: Ensure the system can integrate with your current hardware to avoid unnecessary costs and operational disruptions.
2. Ease of Implementation: Look for a solution that is straightforward to implement without major downtime or retraining requirements.
3. Security and Compliance: Check that the system meets your industry’s regulatory standards, particularly if your organization handles sensitive data or operates in a regulated sector.
4. Scalability and Flexibility: Choose a solution that can easily scale with your business needs, especially if you plan to expand locations or require customized access permissions.
5. Mobile and Remote Access: The ability to manage and grant access remotely, especially through mobile devices, adds convenience and flexibility for security management teams.
Final Thoughts
Cloud-based access control systems offer unmatched flexibility and scalability for organizations ready to embrace the future of security management. By selecting a solution that integrates with existing on-premise systems, companies can enjoy the best of both worlds: the advanced capabilities of cloud technology and the familiarity and dependability of their current infrastructure. As companies grow, adopting a hybrid access control approach will ensure seamless operations, enhanced security, and adaptability to evolving needs.
B-Line is committed to helping organizations navigate the complexities of security and access control systems, offering insights and solutions tailored to both traditional and modern security landscapes. If you’re considering a shift to cloud-based access control, feel free to reach out—we’d be glad to help you find a system that aligns with your organization’s unique needs.
