What is Hosted Access Control? - Vision Security Technologies

Depending on the application, a hosted access control platform can minimize risk and eliminate hardware and software maintenance costs.

Hosted Access Control versus Traditional Server Platforms

Traditionally, access control software platforms are loaded onto a local server that is managed by the IT department and within the organization’s onsite data center. This requires IT to adopt the platform as part of their responsibility for regular maintenance. Onsite devices require that power and cooling are provided by the data center. The organization’s security integration vendor must also come onsite or remote into the server to perform scheduled maintenance and planned updates.

Hosted platforms have become an IT favorite for various business software, such as Learning Management Systems (LMS) and office suites, like Office 365. IT departments are readily accepting hosted access control platforms for their lower total cost of ownership and reliability.

Managed Access Control

Outsource access control programming and daily operations management to free-up valuable time and resources.

Benefits of managed access control include:

• Detailed customized reports
• Door schedule maintenance
• Holiday scheduling
• Employee admissions administration
• Alarm activity reporting
• Issuing of ID cards / Key Fobs / Mobile Credentials
• Automated software upgrades and offsite data backups
• Eliminates badge printer and supplies
• Reduced personnel and labor cost for operation and management of the system
• Eliminates onsite service calls for computer maintenance and software upgrades

Not Everything is in the Cloud

The entrance control hardware devices such as the card readers, electric or magnetic locks, and other hardware devices that are attached to or near each controlled door must remain onsite. These local door devices communicate with the main door controller which then sends data across the network to the hosted access control platform located in the cloud.

Data Security is a Hot Topic

Using a hosted provider can eliminate risk and keep IT focused on supporting organizational productivity, rather than cyber defense.

Making the Move

If you’re considering a platform change, a complete assessment of the current software and door hardware configurations must be performed. Organizational goals and operational requirements should then be updated and clearly defined by all stakeholders. A comprehensive hosted access control system design and hardware/software migration strategy may then be developed. This process should be carefully coordinated by the security integration vendor in support of the organization.

Contact the Vision team immediately to discuss the benefits of a hosted and managed access control platform.