Cloud Based Access Control Systems

Cloud-based access control provide organisations with a more flexible way to administer doors, users and access permissions without relying entirely on a traditional access-control server located at the premises.

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Depending on the selected platform, authorised administrators can manage access through a secure web or mobile interface, making cloud access control particularly useful for businesses responsible for multiple buildings or locations.

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We assess, design, install and support cloud-based access control systems for commercial organisations in Birmingham and across the Midlands.​

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What Is Cloud-Based Access Control?

A cloud-based access control system uses securely hosted software or management infrastructure to perform functions that would traditionally be managed through software running on a local computer or server.

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Physical equipment such as readers, locks and door controllers remains at the premises, while appropriate system-management information is accessed through the hosted platform.

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Depending on the selected system, administrators may be able to:

• Add and remove users

• Issue or revoke credentials

• Change door permissions

• Apply access schedules

• Review access activity

• Manage several sites

• View system information remotely

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The precise functionality depends on the access-control platform selected.

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Benefits of Cloud Access Control

Cloud-based access control can provide organisations with greater flexibility when managing users, credentials and multiple locations. Key benefits can include:

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• Centralised access management: For organisations operating multiple sites, cloud management can allow authorised administrators to manage different premises from a common platform. This can make it easier to apply consistent access policies and manage users who require entry to several locations.

• Remote user and credential management: Where supported by the platform, access permissions can be added, amended or withdrawn remotely. This is particularly useful when employees, contractors or temporary users regularly change.

• Scalable access control: Cloud-based systems can provide a practical foundation for organisations expecting to add more users, doors or locations. Expansion still depends on the capacity, licensing and technical requirements of the selected platform.

• Reduced reliance on local management servers: A hosted platform can reduce the need for locally maintained management software and servers. However, on-site controllers, readers, locking hardware and network connectivity remain important parts of the complete system.

• Access activity and audit information: Cloud access control systems can provide authorised administrators with access-event information across controlled areas. This can help organisations review credential use, investigate access events and maintain better oversight of user permissions.

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The exact level of integration depends on the selected CCTV and access-control platforms and should be established during system design.

 

Designing a Reliable Cloud Security System

Moving security management functions to the cloud does not remove the need for careful on-site system design. Cloud-based CCTV and access control still rely on the right combination of physical hardware, network infrastructure and system configuration.

The level of integration available will depend on the selected platforms and should be established during the design process.

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A site survey will typically assess:

• Door and reader requirements

• Electronic locking hardware

• Network connectivity and internet resilience

• Local controllers and supporting infrastructure

• User permissions and credential types

• Remote administration requirements

• Multi-site management requirements

• Integration with CCTV, intercoms or alarms

• Business continuity and system resilience requirements

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Considering these elements together helps ensure the cloud platform, network infrastructure and physical security equipment operate as one reliable, integrated security system.

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Videoloft

As a Videoloft partner, Watch Systems can provide cloud-based CCTV solutions that make it easier to securely view and manage video surveillance across single or multiple locations.

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Videoloft provides a cloud video management platform that can connect compatible existing cameras and recorders to the cloud, providing centralised viewing, remote access, cloud video storage and optional AI video analytics. Combined with professionally designed access control and on-site security infrastructure, Videoloft can form part of a more flexible, centrally managed cloud security system.

 

Cloud-Based Access Control in Birmingham

Watch Systems provides cloud-based and conventional commercial access-control solutions throughout Birmingham and the wider West Midlands. Whether you are replacing a locally managed access system, opening additional premises or looking for a more centralised way to manage security across several sites, contact us to arrange a site survey.

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FAQs