From commercial buildings to enterprises, cloud-based access control is helping improve security. These solutions are better equipping IT and security teams to manage building access and respond quickly to emergencies. But the benefits of cloud-based access control extend far beyond these areas.  

Compared to on-premises access control systems, the cloud increases efficiency and reduces costs spent on maintaining hardware.  Additionally cloud solutions often include and allow for robust integrations with other software. With solutions like these, IT and security teams can monitor their entire software stack from a single pane of glass. 

Let’s explore the other benefits commonly found in the best cloud-based access control systems. 
 

Here are the top 8 benefits of cloud-based access control systems: 

1. Single Pane of Glass Experience 

2. Automation with Integrations 

3. Remote Access 

4. Data Protection 

5. Customizable Features 

6. Flexibility  

7. Scalability 

8. Remote Customer Support 

Single Pane of Glass 

A “single pane of glass” approach refers to a unified, centralized interface or dashboard that provides a comprehensive view of various security systems, tools, hardware, and data sources in one place. The advantages of a single pane of glass solution include streamlined security management, enhanced operational efficiency and a comprehensive overview of a facility’s security status.  

For example, say an enterprise manufacturing men’s sportswear has video surveillance cameras at their warehouse. With a single-pane-of-glass solution, the security teams located at their headquarters could oversee the video within one software window.  Or, if integrated with notification software, like Slack or Microsoft Teams, an automatically generated message will be sent. A single pane of glass also allows for: 

• Centralized Management: Centralization eliminates the need to navigate between multiple platforms, simplifying daily operations and reducing the risk of errors. 
• Simplified Monitoring: Monitoring and overseeing your access control system’s alarms and events becomes easier when all information is available in one place.  
• Streamlined Incident Response: Coordinate responses efficiently, lock down affected areas and initiate appropriate protocols to mitigate the impact of the incident. 

By integrating various systems into a unified interface, organizations can improve security measures, streamline operations and make more informed decisions. 
 

Automation 

Automation is crucial for large organizations like enterprises and school districts. Here, time intensive activities like manually assigning key cards and badges can jeopardize security and safety. This is one of the reasons having cloud access is essential. With these systems, teams can automate in various ways, including:  

• Adding and removing access credentials 

• Door access reports sent to your inbox 
• Custom roles and access groups  

Automating the badge provisioning process means that new employees can quickly be assigned a key card. Likewise, if a user leaves the company, their badge can be quickly revoked. HR and IT teams can take automation a step further by integrating with software like Azure AD or Okta.  

Instead of manually adjusting credentials and updating an identity management system every time an employee is hired, teams can integrate their software. For example, when an employee is added to Okta, new access control credentials get created. This automation helps improve safety and speeds up the provisioning process.  

There are many ways automation is accomplished with cloud-based access control. Learn more by speaking with a knowledgeable Genea representative.  

Remote Access 

Remote access allows system administrators to monitor and operate physical access control systems from a remote location. In other words, you don’t have to be physically present at your building in order to manage security. This is particularly beneficial in situations where immediate on-site presence is not feasible or necessary, but continuous monitoring and control are still required. System administrators can grant temporary access, adjust access levels and respond to access events.  

Data Protection  

For much of the early 2000s, cloud computing had a bad rap. Many people considered it to be unsecure and prone to hacking. Today, despite everything from movie streaming to banking now operating in the cloud, the stigma still exists.  

But when it comes to security, you may be surprised to learn that the cloud protects your data much better than on-premises access control.  Why? The cloud servers are maintained by companies like Amazon and Google, which have the most current cyber security technology. Additionally, the cloud offers numerous data protection advantages, including:  

• Centralized Data Management: A centralized approach ensures that sensitive data is stored securely in a controlled environment, reducing the risk of data leakage or unauthorized access. 
• Secure Data Transmission: Advanced encryption protocols ensure that data transmitted between devices, servers and clients remains confidential. This prevents eavesdropping and unauthorized interception of sensitive information. 
• Enhanced Authentication Methods: Many cloud systems often support multifactor authentication (MFA) methods, such as biometrics, smart cards, or mobile app-based authentication. These methods add an extra layer of security by requiring multiple forms of verification, reducing the risk of unauthorized access. 
• Data Redundancy and Backups: Cloud platforms typically offer data redundancy and regular backups, ensuring that critical access control data is preserved even in the event of hardware failures or other unforeseen incidents. 

Customizable Access Control Features  

Whether looking for interactive floor plans or custom designed employee badges, cloud-based access control systems often come with several dynamic features. Some of these features include: 

• Custom user roles and permissions provide fine-tuned control over who can access specific areas, fostering a secure environment.  
• Emergency lockdowns bolster safety protocols during emergencies. 
• Robust reporting and analytics aid in decision-making and trend identification. 

However, this is by no means an exhaustive list. Since cloud access control can be easily updated, new features get added quickly. This helps with scalability and flexibility, which happen to be the next two benefits on our list.  

Scalability for Enterprises and More 

Cloud-based architecture allows seamless expansion as organizations grow. With customizable features, these solutions accommodate evolving access needs, user roles, and multiple sites. Whether adding users, locations or functionalities, the system adapts without compromising performance. Scalability minimizes the need for overhauls, saving time and costs. Enterprise and other large organizations also gain a unified platform to manage diverse access requirements, streamlining administration. This scalability ensures long-term viability, efficient resource utilization and consistent security measures. 

Flexibility for the Future 

The next benefit of cloud-based access control is only provided by a few providers. Non-proprietary hardware allows for flexibility unlike proprietary solutions that tie security admins to specific vendors. With non-proprietary hardware, admins have vendor independence as these systems work with various software brands. Additionally, they offer futureproofing. Since technology evolves rapidly, non-proprietary solutions can easily adapt to new hardware advancements without requiring a complete overhaul. Forgoing a complete hardware overhaul saves organizations money and time over the long run – which gets us to our final benefit of a cloud-based access control solution.  

Remote 24/7 Support 

One of the biggest costs and frustrations of on-premises access control is the lack of support from the provider. Unlike many providers, Genea offers remote support 24/7. This means that even if you need help with something as simple as adjusting user permissions, we will be there. With a cloud-based system, the software provider can often do remote support to fix issues for you without charging hundreds of dollars per on-site visit.  

 The Cloud Improves Safety 

Above all, the greatest benefit of cloud access control is improved safety and security. With customizable feature sets and monitoring capabilities, the cloud helps administrators respond faster to emergencies. Additionally, with ever-changing security requirements, cloud access control gives security administrators flexibility when it comes to safeguarding their facilities. 

As organizations prioritize safety and security in an increasingly dynamic environment, the cloud has emerged as an indispensable tool, fortifying physical access control and revolutionizing the way security protocols are implemented and managed. 

To learn how a cloud access control system can help you, contact one of our friendly Genea representatives.