Axis Communications access control review

Avigilon Alta and Axis access control

More and more establishments are incorporating advanced access control systems into their security operations. There are many options, but depending on your security requirements, how do you decide which is right for your organization?

Axis Communications is one of the names you might see when searching for an access control system. Their products include a wide range of commercial and apartment building security systems. Alongside Axis is Avigilon Alta, offering a cloud-based solution that enables businesses and organizations to manage access efficiently. This fast, flexible and future-proof product provides mobile capabilities and intuitive access control software that helps security teams secure their facilities and offer users a seamless access experience.

This guide covers the access control systems offered by Axis Communications and Avigilon Alta and highlights key features and considerations for businesses and organizations when procuring an access control system.

Comprehensive Axis Communications access control review

From small convenience stores to large office buildings, Axis offers edge-based and streamlined access control systems for businesses and organizations of all sizes. Its portfolio of access control products includes software, readers and door controllers. It also offers a unified video and access control solution, AXIS Camera Station Secure Entry, enabling customers to manage their physical security operations on one platform.

Access control hardware review

Within Axis’ hardware offerings, you will find multiple access readers and door controllers. Their reader products include but are not limited to the contactless AXIS A4020‑E Reader, the A4120‑E Reader with Keypad, the Barcode Reader and a desktop reader for cardholder enrollment and self-assigning body-worn cameras to users. Alongside their readers, Axis offers two series of door controllers, the AXIS A12 Series and the A16 Series, each providing a selection of related products.

Avigilon Alta’s hardware offerings include a wide range of smart readers and door controllers as well as smart hubs and boards for comprehensive access control. From the multi-functional Video Intercom Reader Pro to the Standard Smart Reader, Avigilon Alta has several reader options for various security applications. Avigilon Alta also provides controller options and units with the Single Door Controller, 4‑door and 8‑door options with ports, relays and extra outputs to allow additional sensors or Wiegand devices.

Cloud capabilities review

Axis and Avigilon Alta offer access control technologies that can run on the cloud, providing customers with flexible options to suit their needs. Like Axis, the Avigilon Alta cloud-based system delivers versatile management. In a single dashboard, admins can easily grant and revoke access credentials, configure settings, manage visitor access and observe events in real time.

This remote management allows users to oversee multiple sites and access requests from anywhere. Designed to be flexible and scalable, Avigilon Alta and Axis enable users to conveniently add sites and locations to a network with a few clicks in the dashboard. 

Installation and integration

Axis access control is relatively simple to install. Its devices use a PoE cable and can connect to existing systems without additional wiring. The compact nature of its devices also allows customers to install them in areas with limited space. Although some Axis access control readers come with built-in features like a camera, microphone and reader, others might require additional hardware and installation to achieve the same level of functionality. 

Integration is quite straightforward, with an open interface that allows for integration with property management software and tenant service apps. However, some hardware models do not have ACU functionality and require wiring to an access controller to connect to legacy systems.

Avigilon Alta access control is equally effortless to install. Its sleek devices feature simple snap-in mechanisms and use one PoE cable and standard wiring for a quick and simple installation. For comprehensive security, Alta’s smart devices, like the Video Intercom Reader Pro, combine four functionalities in one, eliminating the cost of installing multiple devices. 

Like Axis, the Avigilon Alta system is built on an open API and mobile SDK and easily connects to other hardware, software and apps. Plus, the App Marketplace allows users to discover more than 45 technology partners that feature integrations with Avigilon Alta. 

Secure access methods

For Axis, access can be granted through a mobile device and a video management system, and a remote entry option is available. Other methods include key cards, fobs, QR codes and license plate information. While most of these options are commonly used access methods, some may not be secure. For instance, PINs can be shared with multiple visitors and unauthorized users and key cards and fobs can be lost or stolen by bad actors. 

Avigilon also supports multiple access methods, including key cards, fobs, PINs, mobile devices and more. Avigilon Alta’s cloud-based mobile credentials enable a 100% touchless entry experience, backed by patented Triple Unlock technology for 99.9% unlock reliability using Bluetooth, Wi-Fi and cellular signals. This mechanism grants access even when one connection is down. 

Temporary entry access to visitors or service providers can be granted through convenient email, text message or messaging apps like Slack. Accessible directly from a smartphone browser, temporary Guest Passes are customizable and permit one or more entries within a limited time with all access activity tracked and recorded in real time. 

Users can take advantage of the convenient Wave to Unlock, a feature that allows users to open doors with a quick movement of the hand or phone. With touchless technology, visitors can request access quickly without having to scroll through an overwhelming directory to find the tenant they are looking for. Plus, visitors can request access without entering personal information into a public device. Like Axis, the remote unlock feature is also available in Avigilon Alta’s system, allowing tenants to unlock the door for guests from their mobile phones or the Avigilon Alta Access dashboard. 

Cost considerations

There are factors to consider when budgeting for an access control system. Your facility’s size and the number of doors and users affect the overall cost of a solution. It’s also important to consider other access control expenditures, such as installation, software licensing and maintenance.

When choosing between Axis and Avigilon Alta, you should factor in the number of readers, door controllers and other hardware you will need for your building. Additionally, software licensing fees and storage costs will apply alongside any maintenance activities and integrations. Therefore, it is recommended that you calculate the long-term costs of each solution. You should also consider if the solution you’re procuring is scalable to save you time and money in the future. Avigilon and Axis offer cost-effective, scalable solutions that allow you to expand the system easily should you need to implement the system across more sites or house more users.

Benefits of Avigilon Alta access control

For organizations and businesses looking for an advanced, future-proof and flexible access control system, Avigilon Alta offers a complete, touchless solution that is reliable and convenient. With its range of smart readers and controller hardware plus feature-rich cloud software, the Avigilon Alta system is designed to scale with ease, from a single door in an office to hundreds of doors across multiple sites.

When selecting an access control solution for your building, some of the top concerns are reliability, cybersecurity and physical security. During an outage or poor network availability, the access control solution should operate as planned to help secure the facility. Avigilon Alta’s access control system is backed by patented Triple Unlock technology – providing a fast and consistent unlock experience every time. Its hardware also has certain fail-safes to withstand power outages and optional backup battery power. Additionally, Avigilon Alta’s hardware is thoroughly tested and certified for all the standards and regulations that your organization requires in an access control security system.

To get the most out of your cloud-based access control system and enhance overall security operations, you can connect other systems and tools to it. Seamless integrations will streamline your operations and reduce the burden on your operators and teams. Avigilon Alta’s open API makes it quick and easy to integrate with any video security system, alarms and sensors, user directory tools, visitor and tenant management platforms, communication apps and more.

Get a demo today or speak with one of our security experts to see how Avigilon Alta compares to other solutions and determine if it’s the right fit for your organization.