7 Best Cloud Based Access Control System in 2025

Managing physical access across multiple facilities has become complex, and security leaders face mounting pressure to secure buildings while enabling flexible remote control. However, traditional systems simply are not keeping up.

Cloud adoption is now mainstream: an industry survey found that nearly 9 in 10 organizations are using multiple cloud environments. This underscores why physical-security platforms must integrate with cloud ecosystems.

Cloud access control systems bridge this gap by offering scalable, cost-effective solutions that eliminate the need for bulky on-premise infrastructure. With real-time monitoring, mobile credentials, and centralized management, these platforms are transforming how organizations protect their spaces. 

In this article, we will explore the seven best cloud door access control systems along with what makes each one stand out.

What is a Cloud-Based Access Control System?

A cloud-based access control system is a modern security solution that uses online-hosted software to manage who can enter your doors and gates securely. 

This allows operators to manage access permissions from any location, using any internet-connected device such as a laptop, tablet, or smartphone.

Instead of a local server in a closet, access decisions and policies are stored and processed in the cloud, enabling remote monitoring, centralized logs, and real-time alerts. 

How Cloud-based Access Control Systems Work?

Cloud door access control systems generally operate through an automated workflow built on three key pillars: authentication, authorization, and access.

1. Authentication

A user presents their credential at an access point, which could be a door, gate, or turnstile. Then the reader at the door captures this credential data, but doesn’t make the access decision itself.

This credential is a unique identifier, and modern cloud-based access control systems support various types:

• biometrics
• key cards
• mobile credentials
• key fobs
• a combination of the above 

2. Authorization/Verification

Instead of sending the data to a local server room, the reader sends the credentials over your building’s internet connection to the cloud access software platform.

Here, the cloud acts as the central brain; it checks the credentials against a vast database of pre-defined rules and permissions you’ve set up. It checks whether the:

• credential is valid and active
• user is allowed access at that specific time and day
• person is permitted to enter that particular door

This entire verification process happens in seconds.

3. Access

Based on the cloud’s verification, a command is sent back to the door lock:

• Grant Access: If everything checks out, the cloud signals the electronic lock to disengage and grant entry.
• Deny Access: If the credential is invalid, expired, or outside its permitted schedule, access is denied. The system can then trigger an immediate alert to security personnel.

7 Best Cloud-Based Access Control Systems

The demand for scalable, secure, and easy-to-manage cloud door access control systems has surged. In the U.S. alone, the access control market generated $2,622.6 million in revenue in 2024 and is projected to reach $3,682.5 million by 2030. This is a clear signal that organizations are investing in modern access solutions. 

Below are the seven best cloud-based access control systems worth evaluating. Each has strengths depending on your environment and priorities.

Coram

Designed for modern enterprises, Coram combines door access, video surveillance, and emergency management in one cloud-native dashboard, making it the best cloud-based access control system.

It enables centralized management of access permissions, real-time video verification, and automated alerts for unauthorized entry attempts. 

In addition, Coram access control system supports various authentication methods, including mobile credentials, biometrics, and keycards, while its offline functionality ensures uninterrupted operation during internet outages.

The platform links every access event with the corresponding video footage, giving IT admins and facility managers instant context about incidents.

Key features and advantages include:

• Unified platform for managing entry points, users, schedules, and video feeds
• Smart access scheduling and temporary credentials for contractors or guests
• Offline support and backup battery for uninterrupted access during a network or power outage
• Tailgating detection and instant alerts for policy violations
• Open standards that allow flexible hardware integration without vendor lock-in
• Suitable for single-site businesses or multi-location enterprises, with support for Wiegand and OSDP protocols, ensuring compatibility with new and existing card readers

Coram is the clear frontrunner for organizations seeking a cloud door access control solution that delivers both security and operational efficiency.

ButterflyMX

ButterflyMX is a popular choice for property managers and multifamily buildings, offering a cloud-based access control system that integrates seamlessly with video intercoms and mobile credentials. 

Tenants and staff can unlock doors via smartphone, PIN codes, or fobs, while administrators manage access remotely through a web dashboard. Its standout feature is the QR Code intercom, which enables app-free access for visitors and deliveries.

Avigilon

Avigilon’s Alta platform delivers a robust cloud door access control solution for enterprise-grade deployments. With mobile credentialing, touchless access, and full remote management, Avigilon offers flexibility for organizations transitioning from legacy systems.

Furthermore, it integrates with existing hardware and supports biometric authentication, making it suitable for high-security environments. The system also supports thermal imaging integration, making it suitable for environments like hospitals and industrial sites.

Kisi

Kisi is a cloud-first platform known for its API-driven architecture and ease of use. It emphasizes mobile credentials, role-based access controls, and rapid deployment, making it a favorite for tech-forward workplaces and hybrid teams.

Admins can assign access via mobile app, automate onboarding through integrations with HR platforms, and monitor usage trends. It’s easy to use and scales well for startups, co-working spaces, and organizations needing a balance of security and flexibility.

Genetec

Genetec’s Security Center SaaS is a hybrid-cloud platform that merges access control, video surveillance, and intrusion detection. With its Cloudlink 210 appliance, Genetec enables organizations to securely bridge legacy systems with cloud infrastructure.

Its open architecture supports third-party devices and offers advanced reporting. Thus, it is a strong contender for sophisticated environments like airports or government facilities. Genetec is perfect for government agencies, universities, and large enterprises with complex security needs.

‍HID Global

HID Global is a veteran in the access control space, now offering cloud-based solutions through its HID Origo platform. It supports mobile credentials, biometric authentication, and real-time monitoring across distributed sites.

HID features a security-first design, with solid encryption and compliance features. It is well-suited for large/global enterprises and regulated industries requiring stringent access policies.

‍Brivo

Brivo offers a versatile cloud-based access control system that combines door access, video intelligence, and visitor management. Its mobile-first design allows administrators to manage security from anywhere, and its open API supports integration with identity providers and surveillance platforms.

Brivo’s analytics and geofencing features are useful for multi-site organizations, and it connects with IoT sensors for holistic facility management.

Cloud-based Access Control vs. Traditional Access Control

While both access management solutions are aimed at securing your premises, their approach, cost structure, and capabilities differ significantly. 

Understanding these differences is important for selecting a solution that aligns with your operational and financial objectives. Here’s a clear comparison to guide your decision.

1. Cost Structure

This is one of the most significant differentiators. Traditional systems involve a substantial capital expenditure upfront to purchase servers, proprietary software licenses, and extensive wiring. 

Conversely, cloud-based access control operates on an operational expenditure model, typically a predictable monthly subscription. This eliminates large upfront costs and includes software updates and support.

2. Remote Capabilities

Can you manage your security system from your phone? With a cloud access solution, you can manage your security system from your internet-connected device. Administrators can grant access, review logs, and respond to alarms from anywhere in the world. 

Traditional systems tether you to a dedicated, on-site computer workstation, making remote management impossible and slowing down response times.

3. Scalability and Flexibility

Expanding a traditional system is often a complex and expensive project, limited by the capacity of the installed hardware.

On the other hand, cloud door access control systems are inherently scalable. Adding a new door or user is often as simple as configuring settings in the web dashboard. Thus, they are ideal for growing businesses or those with multiple locations.

4. Security

While any internet-connected system requires robust security, leading cloud door access control providers build their platforms with modern cybersecurity principles, encryption, and regular patches. 

Traditional systems can harbor undisclosed vulnerabilities, and the responsibility for securing an aging, on-premise server falls squarely on the building owner. This operational burden increases risk, as underscored by industry data. 

For instance, Verizon’s 2024 Data Breach Investigations Report found the human element was a factor in about 68% of breaches, and roughly one-third of breaches involved ransomware or extortion techniques. This highlights why centralized alerts, identity controls, and faster incident context matter.

Furthermore, cloud systems offer superior business continuity; if your building experiences a power outage or disaster, your security data is safe off-site, and you can still manage access remotely.

Why Move to Cloud-Based Access Control?

If you are like most IT and facility managers today, you are already using the cloud for everything from payroll to banking. Then, moving door access to the cloud is a logical next step.

Benefits include:

• Remote Flexibility

With cloud-based access control, you can manage doors across multiple sites right from your phone or laptop. You don't have to run back to the server closet to add a user or check a log. 

That means whether you are at home, in the office, on the go, or anywhere else, you have total visibility and control.

• Cost and Updates

Regarding cost, instead of a big upfront investment in servers and wiring, cloud systems operate on a flexible subscription model. In addition to saving money, you are also freeing up your team from maintaining outdated on-premise hardware. 

Because updates and security patches happen automatically, you are always running the latest version without lifting a finger.

• Integration

Cloud systems play well with others. They integrate seamlessly with video surveillance, identity platforms, and alarm systems, giving you a unified security network that responds faster and smarter to real-world events.

Whether you are scaling up, simplifying operations, or strengthening security, moving to the cloud future-proofs your access control. This enables you to focus on more important matters: keeping your people and spaces safe.

Final Takeaway

Cloud-based access control is a practical way to improve security, lower upfront costs, and simplify operations across your facility or premises. 

The cloud delivers centralized control, better incident context (access events and video), and the flexibility to scale without a major infrastructure project.

From mobile credentials to real-time monitoring, the platforms highlighted in this list reflect the future of building security. Yet, not all solutions offer the same depth of integration, scalability, and insights. 

If you are seeking a unified approach to access, operational simplicity, enterprise-grade security, and video intelligence, Coram leads the way. Its intuitive platform, advanced alerting, and swift deployment make it perfect for modern cloud access control. 

To upgrade your security infrastructure, contact Coram today for a personalized solution.