Best Cloud-Based Access Control Systems in 2024

1. Active Witness

In today's fast-paced world, businesses demand security solutions that are not only robust but also flexible and easy to manage. Enter Active Witness, a trailblazer in cloud-based access control systems, offering a comprehensive, yet straightforward approach to safeguarding your premises. This solution stands out for its ease of installation, user-friendly operation, and a wide array of security features, making it an ideal choice for businesses aiming for frictionless, yet secure access control.

How Active Witness Elevates Security:

Active Witness simplifies access control through a cloud-based platform, employing Power over Ethernet (PoE) for effortless setup. Its intuitive software, accessible via smartphones and desktops, enhances user experience with straightforward navigation. The system embraces modern security protocols by supporting both single-factor (QR codes) and dual-factor (facial biometric verification) authentication methods. This blend ensures a high-security threshold, minimizing unauthorized access while streamlining legitimate entries.

What features does Active Witness offer?

• Enhanced Authentication: Combines QR code-based single-factor and facial recognition for single and two-factor authentication, ensuring a high level of security on the doors that need it and frictionless access where it's desired.
• Comprehensive Access Management: Features like business hours scheduling, credential expiration, and live access monitoring streamline operations for all business sizes.
• Scheduled Unlock: Allowing you to keep certain doors of your business unlocked during your hours of operation.
• Effortless Installation: With PoE connectivity, setting up Active Witness is a breeze, ensuring you're up and running in no time.
• Video Intercom: Enjoy the perks of knowing who's requesting access to your door, have a conversation with them and let them in remotely from the convenience of your phone.
• Cloud-Based Convenience: Offers remote user enrollment, live facility data feeds, and system notifications, enhancing management efficiency.

Affordable, Transparent Pricing:

• Active Witness prides itself on its straightforward pricing model. The cost varies based on the number of access points and users, with complete hardware and software solutions available for under $800 per access point, including a one-year software license. Subsequent years are even more cost-effective, making Active Witness a budget-friendly choice for your security needs.
• Custom tailored software require a quote and will depend on if the system utilizes multi-factor authentication.

Pros & Cons: A Balanced View:

Pros:

• Versatile authentication methods cater to different security needs.
• Infinitely scalable.
• Cloud-based software for easy access and management.
• Quick, plug-and-play installation with outstanding customer support.

Cons:

• May not integrate with some pre-existing systems, best suited for small to mid-sized businesses.

Making the Right Choice for Your Business:

While we're passionate about our solution, we understand the importance of making an informed decision. We encourage potential users to explore customer testimonials and reach out with questions. Active Witness might be the perfect fit for small to mid-sized businesses seeking a cost-effective, secure, and user-friendly access control solution.

Ways to get in touch:

• Call us directly by phone at 888-719-7462
• Email us at sima@activewitness.com
• Book a meeting with one of our team members

2. Kisi

While exploring the landscape of cloud-based access control systems, Kisi presents itself as a notable contender with its suite of features aimed at simplifying access management for businesses. This platform prides itself on offering an easy-to-navigate software solution that streamlines operations, offers centralized management, and promises visibility and control without the traditional complexities and costs associated with physical systems.

Kisi's Offerings:

Among its features, Kisi promotes remote management capabilities tailored for the modern workplace, secure spaces through unlock schedules, and remote lockdowns. It also includes access schedules, geofencing, and an integrated cloud-based intrusion detection system. While these features highlight Kisi's adaptability to various business needs, it's important to discern how they stack up against the unique offerings of solutions like Active Witness, especially in terms of security, ease of use, and overall flexibility.

Access credentials offered by Kisi:

• Smartphones mobile credentials
• key cards & fobs

Pricing Structure:

Kisi's hardware and software pricing structure is designed to cater to a range of business sizes, but it's essential to note that the lack of publicly listed pricing necessitates direct contact for quotes. This aspect might introduce a layer of initial uncertainty for businesses budgeting for access control solutions.

Weighing the Pros and Cons:

Kisi's strengths lie in its touchless access experience, integration capabilities, and focus on safety features. However, when considering a solution for your business, it's crucial to weigh these against some of the limitations, such as the system's limited suitability for residential properties, restrictions on remote access capabilities, and potential customer support challenges.

Making an Informed Decision:

While Kisi offers a robust platform with features that cater to commercial settings, businesses seeking a more versatile solution might find Active Witness more aligned with their needs. Active Witness's emphasis on two-factor authentication, including QR code mobile credentials and facial verification, addresses a broader spectrum of security concerns. Moreover, Active Witness’s system is characterized by its ease of use and avoidance of hidden costs associated with physical credentials, positioning it as a potentially more comprehensive choice for businesses prioritizing enhanced security and visitor management.

In the end, the decision between Kisi and Active Witness should be informed by a thorough assessment of your business's specific security requirements, operational needs, and future scalability. While Kisi brings certain advantages to the table, particularly for commercial applications, Active Witness stands out for its innovative use of two-factor credentials, offering a level of security and convenience that may be better suited for businesses looking for an all-encompassing access control solution.

3. Openpath

While assessing the realm of access control solutions, Openpath emerges as a comprehensive option catering to a variety of property types, including both residential and commercial spaces. Openpath distinguishes itself through seamless integration with mobile technology, offering a user-centric and secure approach to access management.

Understanding Openpath’s Mechanics:

Openpath leverages cloud-based technology to facilitate mobile access control, featuring an array of hardware such as controllers, readers, and panels designed for secure entry decision-making. It prides itself on the Smart Readers' touchless access and occupancy tracking, enhancing user convenience and security. Despite its scalability and ease of installation, comparing these features to those of Active Witness reveals critical considerations for businesses prioritizing flexibility and security.

Diving into Openpath's Features:

Openpath’s hardware suite, including the innovative Video Reader and Smart Hubs, is tailored to meet diverse needs. The system's touchless 'Wave to Unlock' functionality and compatibility with various access credentials like smartphones and smartwatches underscore its modern approach. Yet, it's crucial to weigh these against potential limitations, such as the need for background location permissions which may impact smartphone battery life, or the absence of built-in video surveillance across all devices.

Cost Analysis of Openpath:

Openpath's pricing structure, with hardware costs ranging from $299 per door for Smart Readers to $2,730 for the Core series controller, alongside software licensing fees, indicates a scalable investment. However, obtaining precise pricing requires direct contact for a quote, introducing an element of uncertainty in budget planning. This aspect might influence decision-makers comparing Openpath to solutions like Active Witness, which emphasizes transparent pricing and cost-effectiveness. Software licensing pricing improves with economies of scale and is best suited for larger applications. 

Pros and Cons: A Balanced Perspective:

Openpath's cloud-based, scalable system and touchless access options present a strong case for its adoption. Nevertheless, potential drawbacks such as limited video capabilities and less comprehensive visitor management solutions highlight areas where alternatives might offer more holistic features or better align with specific operational needs.

Making the Choice: Openpath or an Alternative?

Openpath stands out for its flexibility and the convenience of mobile and cloud-based access controls. It’s particularly suited to environments valuing keyless entry and scalability. However, for those seeking richer access credential options, superior visitor management, or a system that excels in both residential and commercial applications with an emphasis on simplicity and comprehensive security, exploring alternatives becomes pertinent.

While Openpath offers robust solutions for certain scenarios, businesses and property managers might find Active Witness’s approach to two-factor authentication, including QR code mobile credentials and facial verification, more appealing for enhanced security measures. This comparison doesn't diminish Openpath’s value but rather emphasizes the importance of aligning your choice with specific security, operational, and budgetary requirements.

In conclusion, Openpath provides a solid foundation for modern access control needs, especially in settings where mobile integration and scalability are paramount. Yet, for those prioritizing a blend of simplicity, advanced security features, and potentially more straightforward visitor management, considering how alternatives like Active Witness match up against these criteria could be the key to making an informed decision.

4. Brivo

Brivo has carved a niche for itself as a trailblazer in the cloud-based access control sector, offering an array of products that cater to diverse building requirements. Known for its robust hardware and sophisticated cloud software, Brivo is a household name across countless multi-family buildings globally.

How Brivo Operates:

At its core, Brivo's system is engineered to furnish users with unparalleled visibility, insight, and control over access management. This is achieved through a comprehensive suite of hardware, including state-of-the-art card readers, control panels, and security cameras, all integrated seamlessly with Brivo's flagship cloud-based software.

Brivo's Hardware Ensemble:

• Video Surveillance: With Brivo's Access Cam, property managers can enjoy HD video playback and live recordings, enhancing security and oversight.
• Readers: Brivo's eclectic mix of readers, from PIN and RFID to HID scanners, alongside Bluetooth-enabled Smart Readers, underscores its commitment to versatile access solutions.
• Control Panels: These panels act as the communication hub, ensuring smooth interoperability between various security components.
• Smart Locks: In partnership with leading providers, Brivo elevates traditional lock mechanisms to smarter, more secure alternatives.

Brivo's Feature Set:

Brivo's platform is synonymous with convenience and scalability, offering features like cloud-based software access, smart home automation capabilities, and extensive integration options through its open API. The mobile management feature particularly stands out, allowing door access via smartphones, which, while innovative, invites comparison with Active Witness's emphasis on multi-factor authentication and ease of use.

Pricing Insights on Brivo:

Brivo's pricing model is adaptive, catering to different scales of operation, from small setups to extensive installations. While the initial cost might seem steep, Brivo argues for cost-effectiveness at scale. However, the necessity to directly contact Brivo for precise pricing details introduces a layer of initial uncertainty, especially when compared to alternatives offering more transparent cost structures.

Pros and Cons: Weighing Your Options:

Brivo's industry stature and user-friendly platform are significant draws. However, potential increases in costs for added features and certain functionality gaps, particularly around visitor management, suggest that while Brivo is a formidable contender, it may not fully align with all operational needs or budget constraints.

Deciding on Brivo:

Brivo's comprehensive solution is undeniably appealing for those seeking a cloud-based access control system that blends hardware robustness with software sophistication. It's particularly suited for settings that demand scalable, integrative solutions. Yet, for entities prioritizing not just ease of access but also advanced visitor management and cost-effective scalability, alternatives like Active Witness, with its focus on innovative access credentials and intercom functionality, might offer a more rounded solution.

In conclusion, Brivo stands as a powerful option within the cloud-based access control landscape, celebrated for its adaptability and reliability. Nonetheless, when choosing the right access control solution, it’s crucial to consider the full spectrum of your needs, including specific features like visitor management and total cost of ownership. This holistic approach ensures that your selection not only meets your current requirements but also aligns with your long-term security and operational objectives.

5.  Swiftlane

Swiftlane has burst onto the scene as an innovative cloud-based access control system, emphasizing its prowess in software-based solutions tailored for modern multi-family and commercial environments. With its unique blend of mobile app functionality and remote management capabilities, Swiftlane appears to be carving out a niche in the access control market.

How Swiftlane Functions:

Central to Swiftlane's operation is its reliance on a mobile app coupled with remote management software, facilitating a streamlined user experience. The SwiftReader, its singular wired reader offering, stands out by integrating access control, video surveillance, and intercom functionalities into a sleek, touchscreen interface. This all-in-one approach aims to simplify the user interaction while bolstering security measures such as tailgating alerts.

Swiftlane's Feature Highlights:

Swiftlane doesn't shy away from packing a punch with features designed to enhance security and convenience:

• Tailgating alerts and high-definition video monitoring aim to fortify premises against unauthorized access.
• Two-way audio and touchless facial recognition access underscore Swiftlane’s commitment to modern, user-friendly security solutions.
• The mobile app extends flexibility by enabling remote door unlocks, a feature that's becoming increasingly indispensable in access control systems.

Cost Considerations:

Swiftlane's pricing model, with its reader and door controller hardware coupled with a monthly subscription fee, suggests a relatively straightforward investment for businesses. However, given the dynamic nature of pricing in the access control industry, prospective users are encouraged to seek tailored quotes to align with their specific project needs.

Pros and Cons: A Balanced View:

While Swiftlane's cloud-based system and integrated hardware features present a compelling case, potential users must weigh these against some notable limitations. The system's narrow hardware selection and potential challenges with facial recognition accuracy highlight areas where Swiftlane may fall short of expectations. Moreover, the lack of support for traditional access methods like keycards or fobs could be seen as a drawback for users seeking versatile entry options.

Making the Swiftlane Decision:

Swiftlane positions itself as a forward-thinking choice for entities in search of a software-centric access control solution, blending innovation with practicality. However, for those prioritizing a broader spectrum of hardware options, more reliable facial recognition, and extensive integration capabilities, alternatives may provide a more fitting solution. Active Witness, for instance, offers a robust platform that accommodates a wider range of user preferences and operational requirements, potentially delivering a more comprehensive and flexible access control ecosystem.

In conclusion, Swiftlane's proposition as a modern, software-based access control solution holds promise, especially for businesses aligned with its vision of integrated, mobile-centric security. Nevertheless, thorough comparison with other market offerings, including Active Witness, is advisable to ensure that your chosen access control system not only meets today's needs but also adapts seamlessly to future security challenges and technological advancements.

6. Prodatakey (PDK)

ProdataKey has made waves in the cloud-based access control market with its commitment to simplifying security without sacrificing functionality. Through its user-friendly mobile app and web platform, ProdataKey stands out for its effortless management of access across users, groups, and doors from anywhere, at any time. However, when it comes to choosing the right access control system, it's crucial to stack ProdataKey against alternatives like Active Witness to ensure the best fit for your security needs.

How ProdataKey Operates:

ProdataKey simplifies the deployment of access control systems with hardware that supports plug-and-play installation, controller self-discovery, and OSDP compatibility. This approach not only streamlines the setup process but also enhances the system's reliability and scalability. ProdataKey supports a variety of access credentials, including mobile credentials, keycards, fobs, and even wearable devices, offering flexibility in access management.

Features at a Glance:

• OSDP Compatibility & System Health Monitoring: Ensures secure communication between devices and provides real-time insights into system performance.
• Flexible Access Credentials: Supports mobile credentials, fobs, keycards, and wearables, catering to diverse user preferences.
• Scalability: Effortlessly scales to accommodate growth, making it suitable for businesses of all sizes.
• Simplicity: Designed for easy configuration and management, appealing to users seeking straightforward solutions.

Cost Analysis:

While ProdataKey's hardware and software pricing vary based on the scale of the installation, the estimated monthly cost of $15 per door positions it as an accessible option for many businesses. However, precise pricing details require direct inquiry, which may be a consideration for organizations looking to quickly compare costs across solutions.

Pros and Cons: Weighing Your Options:

ProdataKey's scalable and affordable access control solutions are highly rated by users, emphasizing its appeal for small businesses. However, the lack of publicly available pricing and limited reviews might pose challenges for prospective buyers. Additionally, the current limitation on integrations and focus on commercial rather than multifamily applications could influence decision-making for certain users.

Deciding on ProdataKey:

ProdataKey presents a compelling option for businesses in search of a cloud-based access control solution that balances simplicity with robust security features. Its real-time updates and affordable pricing make it a strong contender for small businesses. Yet, for those requiring more advanced features like video surveillance or two-factor authentication, exploring alternatives such as Active Witness might prove beneficial. Active Witness offers an enhanced suite of security features, including video capabilities and two-factor credentials, providing a more comprehensive security solution tailored to the specific demands of your business.

In sum, ProdataKey's platform offers a solid foundation for businesses looking to implement cloud-based access control. Its emphasis on simplicity, scalability, and affordability makes it an attractive choice. Nevertheless, evaluating your specific security requirements and considering the full spectrum of available options, including Active Witness, is essential to selecting an access control system that not only meets your current needs but also anticipates future security challenges.

7. Alocity

Alocity emerges as a cutting-edge cloud-based access control and AI video intercom solution, designed to enhance the security and efficiency of managing access to facilities. Integrating the latest in AI technology and cloud-based convenience, Alocity stands out for its ability to offer real-time management and monitoring capabilities. But how does it stack up against established players like Active Witness? Let's dive deeper into Alocity's offerings to see if it's the right fit for your security needs.

How Alocity Functions:

Alocity simplifies access control management through its cloud-based platform, enabling users to manage access from anywhere with an internet connection. The highlight of Alocity's system is its live video intercom feature, which allows for direct communication and real-time monitoring of doors. Additionally, Alocity's hybrid cloud cameras, equipped with onboard processing, analyze footage on the edge, enhancing both the durability and versatility of the system.

Alocity's Access Credentials:

Offering a variety of access methods, including mobile credentials, key fobs, smart cards, and facial recognition, Alocity provides flexibility and convenience to accommodate different user preferences and security requirements.

Features and Innovations:

• Cloud-Based Access Control: Allows for seamless management and monitoring from anywhere.
• Hybrid Cloud Cameras: Onboard processing enables edge analysis of footage, reducing reliance on central processing and enhancing response times.
• AI Video Analytics: Detects and alerts on potential security threats, adding an advanced layer of protection.
• Versatile Access Credentials: Supports a broad range of access methods to suit diverse needs.

Costing Details:

Alocity's pricing model includes a hardware cost of $749 and a software subscription of $16/month. Alternatively, their hardware-as-a-service option at $39/month includes a lifetime product warranty, presenting a flexible approach to adopting their system with minimal upfront investment.

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

• Real-time access control and monitoring with AI video intercom.
• Diverse access methods cater to various security needs.
• Advanced AI analytics for enhanced threat detection.
• Flexible and transparent pricing options.

Cons:

• Limited user reviews and testimonials may raise questions about service quality.
• As a relatively new offering, brand recognition and trust could be potential hurdles.

Choosing Alocity: Is It Right for You?

Alocity presents a promising solution for those seeking advanced access control capabilities, particularly with its integration of AI video analytics and live video intercom. Its cloud-based nature and range of access credentials offer considerable flexibility and modern security solutions. However, the relatively new status of Alocity in the market means that prospective users may find it challenging to gauge its reliability and performance based on user feedback alone.

Comparatively, established solutions like Active Witness might offer a sense of security through their proven track records and comprehensive features, including video surveillance and analytics. For those prioritizing cutting-edge AI features and cloud-based convenience, Alocity could be a compelling choice, provided there's comfort with its newer market presence.

Summary:

When selecting an access control system, it's crucial to consider not only the technological capabilities and cost but also the provider's track record and the system's ability to meet your specific security needs. Alocity, with its innovative approach to access control and security, represents a forward-thinking choice, especially for organizations looking to leverage cloud and AI technologies. However, weighing its features against those of more established providers will ensure you make an informed decision that aligns with your security objectives and operational requirements.

For more information on Active Witness visit our resources page.

Disclaimer: Please note that the content shared in this blog is derived from information sourced from external parties and aims to offer a broad overview of various products and services. While we strive to verify the accuracy and timeliness of this information, we cannot fully assure its exactness or its current relevance. It's important to understand that prices and specifics concerning competitor offerings might fluctuate without prior notification and cannot be entirely guaranteed, as precise cost details often necessitate direct quotations from the respective providers. For the most reliable and up-to-date information, we encourage direct consultation with the relevant companies or access to official resources prior to making any decisions based on the insights provided in this blog.