Why Cloud Access Control Is Replacing Traditional Access Control Systems: What It Means for You

Local servers. Manual updates. Limited visibility into who’s accessing what, and when. If your access control system still depends on on-site hardware, you’re already behind.

Traditional on-premise systems were built for a different era—before mobile apps, remote work, and modern cybersecurity threats reshaped how organizations operate. Today, managing access isn’t just about unlocking doors. It’s about flexibility, speed, and control at scale.

That’s where cloud-based access control comes in. In this guide, we’ll break down how cloud-native systems like Coram compare to legacy setups and why this transition matters for organizations of all sizes.

How Traditional and Cloud-Based Systems Work

Every access system has one job: control who gets in, and when. Traditional systems rely on on-premise servers, local databases, and outdated software. Each time someone scans a card, their credentials are validated against data stored locally—requiring a stable internal network and ongoing server maintenance.

Coram replaces that rigid setup with a smart, cloud-connected architecture. Its access control boards remain on-site, wired to door locks and card readers, but stay continuously synced with the cloud. This gives administrators real-time visibility, centralized control, and the ability to manage access from any device.

Remote Access and Ease of Use

Managing a traditional system often means remote desktop logins, outdated user interfaces, and manually pulling logs. You might even need to be on-site or connected via VPN to make the simplest changes, like updating user permissions.

Coram makes access control as simple as managing your email. From a browser or mobile app, administrators can add or remove users, create time-based access rules, view logs, and even connect doors to video feeds—all in a few clicks. No software installed. No network gymnastics. Just fast, flexible control.

How Coram’s Hardware is Changing Access Control

Coram’s system isn’t just cloud-enabled - it’s smart at the edge, too. Its boards can support up to four doors and operate independently even if the internet goes down, thanks to onboard memory that stores user permissions locally. And in the event of a power outage, built-in battery backup ensures that security stays intact.

Coram also supports both Wiegand and OSDP protocols, making it compatible with a wide range of card readers. Whether the setup is new or you're retrofitting an old system, Coram’s boards fit in seamlessly.

Scalable, Secure, and Ready for the Future

Where traditional systems struggle to scale - especially across multiple buildings or campuses - Coram thrives. Its centralized cloud dashboard allows security teams to manage hundreds of doors across locations without any added server infrastructure.

Better yet, Coram integrates directly with its video management system. That means you can link access events to surveillance footage, detect tailgating, and flag identity mismatches—all with zero manual syncing between platforms.

Coram Cloud vs. Traditional On-Premise Access Control

Here’s how Coram’s cloud-based system stacks up against traditional on-premise access control:

Conclusion

Traditional access control systems are no longer equipped to meet the demands of modern, distributed organizations. Cloud-based platforms like Coram offer a scalable, secure, and flexible alternative. They eliminate the need for on-site servers while providing real-time control, simplified management, and seamless integrations. For organizations looking to future-proof their physical security, the shift to cloud is no longer optional. It is essential.

Key Takeaways:

• Manage Remotely: Control access from any device, anywhere.
  
• Always On: Works even during internet or power outages.
  
• Secure & Compatible: Supports both Wiegand and OSDP readers.
  
• Smarter Security: Integrated with video for real-time insights.
  
• Scales Easily: No servers needed to expand across locations.