When picking out an access control system, you can choose between a system that’s on-site or cloud-based. Cloud-based access control is quickly gaining popularity with businesses around the world due to its ability to be operated remotely, the ease of setup and use, and the flexibility it offers. If you think a cloud-based system is right for you, here’s what you need to know.
Cloud-Based Means No Physical Servers
Access control systems store a lot of data. They need to keep track of all your business’s users, permissions, and access control operations to every door, gate, and entrance that’s operated by the system. Traditional on-site access control systems require the installation of servers and software to store and manage all the information.
Cloud-based access control systems operate remotely. Instead of having servers installed in your place of business, all security information is stored offsite by a security provider. Using the internet, you can log in and manage your systems with your mobile devices.
It’s similar to how social media platforms operate. All your pictures and posts are stored on the social media’s massive servers, and you’re allowed access with a username and password. Once you log in, you can manage all your profile’s details right from your mobile device. Even if you have thousands of pictures cluttering up your Instagram feed, it’s not taking up any space on your phone or computer because all the information is stored remotely.
Everything Is Connected
All access control systems operate the same way. Your hardware — door locks, card readers, PIN codes, etc. — is connected to a central server. You can change permissions and manage security simply by logging into the server and telling the system what to do.
In a cloud-based system, the servers are located offsite, so everything is connected by internet. Using your mobile device, you can log into the server and remotely manage the system from anywhere with a connection. All your access control hardware is also connected to the internet, using either a wired or wireless connection. Any updates made on the remote system are sent back to your hardware through the internet.
Benefits of Cloud-Based Access Control
The access control market is expected to grow from $13.2 billion AUS to $21 billion AUS by the year 2024, and much of that growth is caused by the increase in cloud-based access control technology. More and more homes and businesses are enjoying the benefits that come along with cloud-based systems:
- Unparalleled flexibility – The obvious benefit of cloud-based access control is the ability to operate your security system remotely. All you need to do is log in. It doesn’t matter if its from your PC, laptop, tablet, or smartphone, even if you’re out of the office. If you have an internet connection, you can manage your access control systems.
- Lower up-front cost – Since there are no servers to install or software to download, cloud-based access control has a much lower upfront cost and easier installation compared to traditional on-site access controls. Most cloud-based systems operate using a monthly subscription, so it can be considered a monthly expense instead of a capital purchase.
- No maintenance – With an on-site access control system, you would have to hire someone to manage and maintain the servers and keep the software updated. With a cloud-based system, there are no servers to manage. All maintenance and updates are handled by the cloud service, giving you less to worry about — and pay for.
- Scalability – Since cloud-based access control systems operate via the internet, you can have as few or as many systems connected as you want. Even if your business has multiple sites around the world, they can all be controlled using one cloud-based system.
Downsides of Cloud-Based Access Control
Of course, nothing in life can be entirely positive. While there are certainly major benefits to using a cloud-based system, there are also a few negatives to be aware of:
- Internet-reliant – If the internet goes down, you lose connectivity to your system.
- More expensive in the long run – While on-site access control systems are more expensive up front and still require monthly licensing fees, they typically cost less per month compared to cloud-based systems. With the ongoing subscription fees, cloud-based access control systems could end up costing more over time. It typically takes several years for cloud-based systems to become surpass the cost of on-site systems.
- Not as secure as on-site systems – Some companies don’t like the idea of sending their security information off-site. While cloud-based access control systems are definitely considered secure, they’re not quite as secure as on-site systems.
Cloud-Based Access Control with Four Walls Security
Many homes and businesses around the world are choosing cloud-based access control for their security needs. Not only are cloud-based systems cheaper to install, they also offer unparalleled flexibility and less maintenance compared to the traditional on-site systems, with most of the same features.
With the wide variety of access control systems and features on the market, it can be hard to decide which one is right for your unique needs. The experts from Four Walls Security have years of experience working with Brisbane area homes and businesses. We can walk you through every step of the process to find and install the perfect system to suit your needs. Contact us today to take the first step towards a more secure future.
