Cloud vs. On-Prem Access Control: Choosing the Right Solution for Commercial Real Estate

With the complexity and scale of modern commercial properties, reliable access control has become a cornerstone of security strategy. Property managers must choose between cloud-based and on-premises systems, each with unique benefits. Here’s an overview to help in making the best decision.

Cost-Effectiveness and Flexibility

Commercial properties often have tight budgets and need cost-effective, scalable solutions. On-premises systems require significant investments in physical hardware, IT infrastructure, and ongoing maintenance, making them up to 4.5 times more costly than cloud options. On the other hand, cloud-based access control operates on a subscription model, ensuring predictable expenses that fit into operational budgets.

Smart Access Control for Today’s Real Estate

Today’s smart access control system is essential to an organization’s IT framework, enhancing efficiency, security, and compliance. Modern access control automates processes and streamlines operations by integrating ERP, Single-Sign-On, and HRMS applications. Virtual credentials like NFC, Bluetooth, and QR codes replace physical cards, improving onboarding and access management. AI-driven notifications and security workflows streamline visitor management, while administrators can manage permissions remotely. A cloud-based system offers optimal reliability and connectivity for these capabilities. Although on-premises solutions can support similar features, they demand extensive in-house IT infrastructure, making cloud deployment a more practical choice.

Scalability for Dynamic Properties

Commercial properties, particularly in growing urban areas, often require flexible scaling to adapt to tenant turnover and space expansion. Cloud-based access control scales effortlessly, allowing properties to add or remove users and access points as needed without major upgrades. On-premises solutions, however, often need costly and time-consuming adjustments, making cloud deployment a smart choice for dynamic real estate environments.

Enhanced Security and Compliance

With growing security regulations, compliance is vital for commercial real estate. Cloud providers manage security protocols and compliance with certifications like SOC2 and GDPR, reducing the security burden on campus IT teams. In contrast, on-premises systems rely heavily on internal resources, which may be challenging for institutions with limited IT support.

Environmental Sustainability

Sustainability is a growing priority in commercial real estate, and cloud solutions can align with green building standards. Cloud-based access control consumes up to 84% less power and can reduce carbon emissions by up to 88%, supporting eco-conscious goals. In contrast, on-premises systems are less energy-efficient, requiring more power and maintenance.

Maintenance and Uptime

Cloud access control offers high reliability with 99.9% uptime, automatic backups, and regular updates, minimizing downtime. This significantly reduces operational interruptions and eases the burden on property management teams. On-premises systems, by contrast, need constant IT oversight, which can strain internal resources and lead to service disruptions.

Inclusiveness: Making High-End Technology Accessible

Cloud access control democratizes technology, allowing commercial buildings of all sizes to access advanced security features. Smaller properties can implement high-end, AI-driven functionalities without costly infrastructure, ensuring robust security for all tenants.

The Choice: Cloud Stands Out

While both systems have their advantages, cloud-based access control offers unparalleled value for commercial properties. From cost efficiency to scalability and sustainability, cloud systems allow building owners and managers to focus on what matters most—providing a safe, accessible, and efficient environment.

Upgrade Your Property’s Security with IDCUBE’s Access360.ai

IDCUBE, a global leader in AI-powered, cloud-based access control, streamlines access management for commercial real estate with integrated AI analytics, mobile credentials, visitor management, and attendance tracking on a unified platform.

Get in Touch: To learn how our AI-powered solutions can enhance your property’s security, contact us at contact@idcubesystems.com.