Cloud-based access control is quickly becoming the go-to security technology for enterprises around the world. As you might know, two types of enterprise access control systems for physical security exist: cloud-based and on-prem. Unlike traditional on-premises access control – which requires servers to be housed on site – cloud-based access control systems are maintained off site by third-party vendors, like Amazon Web Services (AWS), Microsoft and Google. As a result, enterprise IT and security teams can allocate their time to other important tasks like provisioning, monitoring entrances and creating safety plans.
But there are many ways enterprises benefit from cloud-based access control. Let’s explore the top five benefits of incorporating cloud physical security into an enterprise:
- Scalability
- Reduced Costs, Faster Updates
- Improve Security and Compliance
- Enhanced Integration Capabilities
- Remote Management
Scalability
One of the most significant advantages of a cloud-based access control system is its scalability. Enterprises can easily add or remove access points (e.g., doors, parking gates, elevators, etc.) as needed without having to make significant hardware installations. In other words, businesses can quickly adapt to changing security needs, whether adding new employees or locations, or implementing new security policies.
Additionally, from a centralized dashboard, enterprises can automate the creation and management of user roles, assign permissions and set restrictions. An enterprise access control system has the critical ability to track who enters and leaves a building. This feature helps security administrators obtain vital information to improve system security and prevent crime.
Adding a cloud-based access control system to your security ecosystem also improves employee safety. Data collected from the system can help indicate weak points in the system and prevent unauthorized access to the building.
Learn how one global retail enterprise, with more than 145 locations, migrated and is taking advantage of cloud access control.
Reduced Costs, Faster Updates
Cloud-based access control systems can significantly reduce costs for enterprises as well. Legacy access control systems require significant hardware and software investment, ongoing maintenance and upgrades. Consequently, the cost of ownership is higher. In contrast, cloud-based systems are typically offered on a subscription basis, this means that enterprises can benefit from the latest security technologies without incurring significant capital expenses.
Additionally, deploying system updates happens faster with cloud-based access control. If a provider creates a new feature or enhances their access control platform, the update can be easily and quickly implemented. This efficiency saves enterprise security teams from any kind of server downtime.
Improved Security and Compliance
Cloud-based access control systems offer a wide range of enhanced security and compliance capabilities. Though these systems log when someone enters a building or office, they also provide intuitive software features to help teams make data-driven decisions. Features help prevent crime, stop theft and prevent unauthorized access.
Further, cloud providers typically heavily invest in security measures like encryption, multi-factor authentication and network monitoring. These systems give teams the ability to adjust access levels and access rights of credentials. This helps ensure that only the people who need access have it.
By maintaining a centralized database of access events, cloud-based systems can help enterprises quickly and easily identify security breaches or compliance violations.
Enhanced Integration Capabilities
A solid cloud-based platform offers enhanced integration capabilities, allowing teams to integrate access control with other enterprise security solutions. These solutions include identity management, video management system, visitor management and others. Some enterprises have found integrating their door access control with video surveillance or security camera systems to be especially helpful. When a door access event occurs, video of the incident will be synced.
Additionally, provisioning and deprovisioning access for employees can be automated with the cloud. If an enterprise has thousands of users, provisioning can be very time intensive. However, integrating with identity management solutions like Azure AD, Okta and others, can speed up the process and help you avoid duplicate entries.
Ultimately, by integrating with other systems, enterprises can streamline their security management, reduce errors and increase efficiency.
Remote Management
Finally, cloud-based access control systems can offer remote management capabilities, allowing enterprises to manage their physical security systems from anywhere, at any time. This can be particularly useful for businesses with multiple locations or remote employees. With a cloud-based system, managers can easily manage access control policies, view real-time access logs, and receive alerts on their mobile devices. This can help enterprises quickly respond to security incidents or compliance violations, even when they are not on site.
Bonus: Eliminate Lost Key cards and Smart Cards
Mobile enterprise access control systems help prevent lost keys and smart cards. People lose these items frequently, and companies have to deal with the cost of replacement.
Instead, many enterprises are adopting mobile credentials. Employees and visitors use credentials stored in their smartphones to enter their facilities. Executives of these enterprises will experience another added perk- when traveling between offices, Executive Team members often must carry multiple keycards. With mobile credentialing, one smartphone can unlock every programmed office.
Secure Your Future with Genea
Cloud-based access control for physical security offers significant benefits to enterprises, including scalability and flexibility, reduced costs, improved security and compliance, enhanced integration capabilities and remote management capabilities. By leveraging the latest cloud-based technologies, enterprises can better secure their premises, streamline their security processes and improve overall efficiency. For more information about cloud access control, reach out to one of our helpful representatives.
