Keyless entry systems generally fall into three categories based on the functionality and use case of the system. These include:
- Cloud-Based Systems
- Network Systems
- Standalone Systems
It’s important to get a good grasp on what types of systems are available and what your business setup and specific needs allow. For instance, if there isn’t proper power or network connectivity nearby a door, that can complicate an access control system installation.
CLOUD-BASED SYSTEMS
WHAT IS CLOUD-BASED ACCESS CONTROL?Cloud-based access control systems communicate to offsite servers through internet-connected devices and enable a user to control or audit access to their site remotely through online portals.
Because these systems do have cloud computing involved with their usage and are regularly updated with new features, there is typically a license fee associated with their use. This can range widely depending on how many doors and what type of license a small business purchases.
Typically though, these license fees are reasonable and affordable for the plusses an online portal bring to small business owners and admins.
NETWORK SYSTEMS
WHAT IS NETWORK ACCESS CONTROL?Network access control systems connect via a local network, but do not have a cloud-based integration, so there are no monthly fees associated with their use.
Network systems in the past have received a bad reputation for being unwieldy—often tied to their need to be constantly online and hosted through an on-site IT computer.
Much of this poor reputation is driven by antiquated access control systems installed years or even decades ago that are still in service. Modern network access control systems however are incredibly reliable and offer impressive function without the burden of a monthly license cost.
STANDALONE SYSTEMS
WHAT IS A STANDALONE ACCESS CONTROL SYSTEM?Standalone systems are a bit different from online systems in that they are typically designed and installed as separate locks that are programmed individually and do not necessarily have an online portal to control and access audit trails.
Standalone systems work extremely well for large sites where access only needs to be controlled on a few entry ways. They’re also solid picks for entryways far from their IT closet, networking room or power hookups.
Typically, systems like this will have many ways to allow access, whether they be key cards, fobs, biometrics or mobile authentication.
LOUD-BASED ACCESS CONTROL SYSTEMS ARE BEST FOR:
- Large, multi-door businesses
- Multi-site businesses, high-traffic businesses
- Businesses that often require limiting or allowing access quickly from anywhere
STANADLONE SYSTEMS ARE BETTER FOR:
- Single-site businesses with lower employee counts or low turnover
- Doors which are isolated from a wireless network, are low traffic or have a unique installation situation making standalone systems more beneficial
- You’re looking to control access on a smaller budget and can handle having a limited audit trail
NETWORK SYSTEMS ARE BEST FOR:
- Businesses who want a network-connected system but don’t need to access a cloud-portal to manage their security
- Businesses who need to issue physical cards
- Sites with access to power and wireless or wired internet access point