Part 1: Introduction to Access Control as a Service (ACaaS)
In this four-part series we will discuss the capabilities and advantages of pursuing a cloud-based, enterprise class access control solution. This solution is commonly referred to as Access Control as a Service, or ACaaS. And while this solution is not ideal for everyone, you may well end up among the many that are making the move toward increased convenience, higher reliability, lower initial capital expense, and increased cyber and data security.
First, let’s discuss who may not be an ideal candidate for this solution. In general, any entity that is averse to internet connectivity for their security systems would probably want to continue using an on-premises solution. Internet connectivity is required for a cloud-based access control solution.
With that caveat out of the way, the odds are that your organization is well suited for a cloud-cased access control solution. So, let’s explore what is meant by a scalable, cloud-based, enterprise class access control solution.
A cloud-based access control solution resides in the secure cloud and is accessible by users and administrators using any device with internet connectivity and proper credentials. This means that the solution can be used at one or more locations without having to create private network connectivity between them, thus enabling ultimate scalability as your organization evolves.
By leveraging your already existing internet connection, your organization is assured that your data is safe in a cyber protected, high availability environment. This cloud environment is commonly located in an AWS or other reputable service provider cloud, which brings the highest level of security, disaster recover, and redundancy currently available.
Without costly servers and applications on your network and in your data closet, you will reduce initial capital expenses and ongoing maintenance which can mean more expenses and business interruption.
Now that the access control solution is in the cloud, your team can focus on operations and not IT-related headaches like server purchasing, installation, upgrades, and maintenance.
In the next three parts of this series, we will discuss:
- Convenience for users and administrators
- Cyber and data security in an ACaaS environment
- Interoperability with 3rd party security systems
Access under control
The Vision team is ready to help you protect your students, faculty, employees, contractors, visitors, and assets by providing expert advice and system design of high-performance, cloud-based access control solutions. ACaaS is not for everyone, so we will evaluate your current solutions, and explore the risks and benefits of a potential migration to a cloud-based access control solution for your organization.
We’ll be involved and support initial discussions with all stakeholders from a technical perspective by clearly understanding your campus environment. Once a plan is approved, our experienced team will ensure your facilities are properly protected with modern, state of the art access control.
Contact us today.
