On-premises and cloud-based access control

Based on findings from the 2024 State of Physical Security Report, access control ranks as the #1 technology physical security organizations plan to invest in.

Both on-premises and cloud-based access control systems are secure, enterprise-grade options with pros and cons. But a hybrid-cloud solution can be a great option too. Keep reading to learn more.

EBOOK

 

When is on-premises access control a good option?

On-premises access control is a solution where your organization installs and manages your access control infrastructure and IT systems on-site. That means an on-premises access control system gives your organization more control over your data and specific needs.

This can be fitting for industries with strict regulations, like public safety, government, critical infrastructure, or energy and utilities to name a few. These sectors have some of the most rigorous data regulations, so it's important to ensure data is always consistently secure.

BROCHURE

 

Here’s how your organization can benefit from this type of deployment:

Full control

A major benefit of an on-premises access control system is that your organization maintains complete autonomy over its infrastructure and data. This level of control allows you to tailor the system precisely to your unique requirements, ensuring alignment with your specific security policies and operational needs.

Minimized risk

By keeping access control systems within your physical premises, you can better safeguard sensitive data and mitigate potential security risks associated with external vendors. All of your access control data is stored within your organization's network and infrastructure, reducing potential points of vulnerability.

Customization

On-premises access control systems offer many customization options. From hardware configurations to software integrations and user interface preferences, your organization can finely tune these systems to accommodate your distinct workflows, compliance requirements, and industry-specific regulations. Working with channel partners can help assess your needs and ensure that your deployment meets any unique specifications.

BLOG

 

What is ACaaS? When is it a good option?

Cloud-based access control solutions, also known as access control as a service (ACaaS), host both software and data on remote cloud servers. This enables your system administrators to oversee installations from any location with internet access, eliminating the need for physical infrastructure. These solutions often use software as a service (SaaS), ensuring security and regular updates.

PRODUCT

 

Here's why ACaaS solutions are gaining momentum:

Remote capabilities

Cloud-based systems allow you to manage your access control from anywhere with an internet connection. Whether your different sites have on-premises or cloud-based access control, you can centralize everything in one solution to ensure consistency and efficiency. This approach simplifies administrative tasks, such as adding or removing users, updating access permissions, and monitoring activity, providing greater control and visibility over security across your entire network of locations.

 

Less maintenance

Cloud-based access control offers a major advantage: your service provider handles infrastructure maintenance. This frees your organization from the burden of managing hardware and software, boosting flexibility and system capabilities.

Automatic updates

Cloud-based systems are continuously updated with the latest security features and improvements by your provider. This means that your system is always up to date with the latest technology and security protocols without the need for manual intervention. This not only enhances security but also ensures compliance with evolving industry standards.

Scalability

As your organization grows, so do your security needs. Cloud-based access control infrastructure is more scalable, allowing you to easily add or remove users, doors, and locations without significant capital expenditure or manual intervention. This scalability ensures that your access control system can adapt to the evolving needs of your organization, providing a solution that grows with you. More importantly, you can pivot your physical security strategy and scale at your own pace without sacrificing performance, even as the number of connected devices or users increases.

Lower upfront costs

Traditional on-site access control systems often require significant upfront investments in hardware and ongoing maintenance costs. Cloud-based solutions typically operate on a subscription or pay-as-you-go model, which can reduce your upfront costs. Also, your cloud provider will take care of maintenance and updates, which can further reduce your overhead costs.

How a hybrid-cloud deployment offers the best of both worlds

Not ready to move all of your physical security infrastructure to the cloud? A hybrid-cloud deployment can bridge the gap between on-premises and cloud-based access control solutions by offering you a flexible approach to managing your security infrastructure. It essentially makes transitioning to the cloud easier.

You can combine the benefits of both environments, allowing your organization to retain sensitive data on-premises while leveraging the scalability and accessibility of cloud services for other aspects of access control. This approach connects existing on-site systems and cloud-based applications, ensuring robust security and operational efficiency.

As you grow, your organization can dynamically adjust your resources, optimize costs, and maintain compliance with regulatory requirements, making a hybrid-cloud deployment a versatile solution for any industry or organization.