Access Control
Virginia's Best Access Control Installer
Commercial Access Control Systems
The Basics of Access Control
What is an Access Control System?
An access control system is an advanced security solution for controlling and monitoring who can enter a building or restricted areas. By using electronic credentials such as keycards, fobs, or your smartphone, it eliminates the need for traditional keys while providing enhanced security and convenience. These systems allow you to set user permissions, create entry schedules, track entry activity, and manage access remotely from the cloud, giving you greater control over your business’s safety. Here are the keys to consider:
Electronic Entry Control
An access control system uses electronic locks, card readers, keypads, or smartphones to control entry points. Access control can be installed on any opening – interior or exterior.
User Management
Users are assigned credentials that grant or restrict access based on their role, schedule, or specific areas within the building. Credentials can be a PIN, fob, card, or smartphone.
Cloud or On-Premise
Access control systems are managed through a central platform (cloud or on-premise) allowing admins to set permissions, monitor activity, and respond to security events.
Audit Trails and Tracking
Access control systems log entry and exit data for all doors and readers that are providing valuable insights for security reviews and investigations.
Integration Friendly
Access Control Systems can integrate with alarm systems, video surveillance systems, and building automation for comprehensive security management.
Access Control System Installer
Explore Our Access Control Systems
Thanks to the growth of cloud-based systems throughout all sectors of technology, gone are the days of costly server equipment required to host an access control system on-premise. Business owners can now choose to take advantage of cloud access control solutions or instead opt for an on-premise solution should their security specifications require it.
Cloud-Based Access Control
Cloud-based access control systems are managed remotely through an online platform, providing greater flexibility, easier updates, and real-time control from anywhere.
Remote Management
Equipped with door and window sensors, motion sensors, glass-break detectors, and more, an intrusion detection system identifies break-in attempts at key access points such as doors, windows, and restricted areas. This ensures suspicious activity is detected and prevented before significant damage or theft occurs.
Reduced Maintenance Costs
Cloud-based systems utilize off-site server to manage your access control system in the cloud. With no bulky costly server equipment, and all updates handled automatically in the cloud, the need for on-site preventive maintenance is greatly reduced. Cloud system also allow for technicians to remotely troubleshoot, reducing costly truck rolls.
Scalability
Cloud-based access control makes it easy to expand your system as your business grows. Whether you’re adding new doors, expanding to additional locations, or changing employee access levels, you can scale your system quickly without costly hardware upgrades or extensive wiring. Managing multiple sites through a single cloud-based instance is a breeze.
Real-Time Alerts
Stay informed with instant notifications for critical security events, such as unauthorized entry attempts, doors left propped open, or unusual access patterns. This allows you to respond promptly to potential threats or security concerns.
Enhanced Data Security
Cloud providers implement robust security measures such as encryption, multi-factor authentication, and redundant data storage to keep your system protected. This ensures your access control data is secure, even in the event of hardware failure or cyber threats.
Automatic Updates
With cloud systems, software updates are handled automatically by Security Alarm Systems. This ensures your system always has the latest security features, bug fixes, and performance improvements without requiring manual maintenance or downtime.
On-Premise Access Control
On-premise access control systems store data locally, offering full control over your security infrastructure but requiring more equipment, on-site management, and maintenance.
Complete Control
On-premise systems store data locally, giving you full ownership and control over your security infrastructure. This allows you to manage system updates, user permissions, and access logs without relying on a third-party provider.
Enhanced Data Privacy
Since all system data is stored on-site rather than in the cloud, your sensitive access records remain within your internal network, reducing exposure to potential cyber threats.
Reliable Performance
On-premise systems operate independently of internet connectivity, ensuring doors remain secure and accessible even during network outages.
Custom Solutions
With on-premise control, businesses with complex security needs can implement custom features, integrations, or workflows tailored specifically to their facility’s requirements.
Cost Control
While on-premise systems may require a larger upfront investment, they often involve fewer recurring subscription fees, making them a cost-effective long-term solution for businesses that prefer to manage their own infrastructure.
Winner: Cloud-Based Access Control
We believe cloud-based access control systems are superior because they offer a more robust feature-set at a lower cost of entry. However, we recognize the value of on-premise systems. We would love to discuss your project, no matter the system you need. Contact us today.
Invest in an Access Control System
Want to learn more about how an access control system can benefit your business?
Control Access and Increase Security
Benefits of an Access Control System
A commercial access control system offers powerful protection by allowing you to manage who can enter your building and when. With customizable access levels, detailed activity tracking, and convenient keyless entry options, you can improve security while simplifying day-to-day operations. Cloud-based management makes it easy to control access remotely, while seamless integration with video surveillance and alarm systems enhances your overall security strategy. From protecting sensitive areas to reducing rekeying costs, an access control system provides the control and peace of mind every business needs.
Enhanced Security
Restrict access to your facility to authorized personnel only, reducing unauthorized entry, theft, and vandalism.
Keyless Entry
Eliminate the hassle of traditional keys with options like keycards, fobs, PIN codes, and mobile credentials.
Custom Access Levels
Assign specific permission to employees, contractors, or visitors based on their roles and schedules.
Activity Tracking
Monitor who enters and exits your building and when, providing valuable insights and audit trails for security reviews.
Remote Management
Manage doors, user permissions, access schedules, and more from anywhere using a cloud-based access control solution.
Loss Prevention
Restrict access to areas to sensitive areas, such as controlled substances rooms, to prevent internal theft.
Cost-Effective
Reduce the need for physical security personnel, lowering overall security costs while maintaining high protection levels.
Employee Safety
Control access to sensitive areas, ensuring only trained or authorized staff can enter. Keep criminals out of your space.
Seamless Integration
Combine access control with your video surveillance and intrusion detection system to further enhance security.
Scalable Solutions
Easily expand your access control system as your business grows, ensuring continued security coverage.
Let us Install Your Upgrade
Upgrade Your Current Access Control System
Have an old access control system that needs to be brought up to today’s standard?
In addition to the access control module (or “brains of the operation”), access control systems require several devices installed at each door location to operate correctly. These devices include electronic door locks, card readers, exit buttons, motion detectors, and more. Each device must have physical wire running back to the access control module – typically in a server room.
These devices are costly and retro-fitting wire throughout a finished building can be time-intensive and laborious. Security Alarm Systems can utilize existing infrastructure and bring your existing system up-to-date. Here is how it works:
Step 1
Appointment is Scheduled
Contact us directly by phone or email to schedule an appointment for an expert SAS systems consultant to meet with you and discuss your project in detail.
Step 2
Site Survey is Conducted
During the appointment, the SAS systems consultant will perform a survey of your existing infrastructure and determine what can be reused and what needs to be replaced.
Step 3
Estimate is Sent to You
With the information gathered from the site survey, the SAS systems consultant can put together a comprehensive estimate for a new system.
Access Control Brands We install
Featured Access Control Brands
When it comes to choosing the right access control system, not all brands are created equal. That’s why we partner with some of the most trusted names in the industry—offering proven solutions for everything from single-door offices to large multi-site enterprises. Whether you need cloud-based convenience, seamless mobile credentials, or fully integrated systems, these are the brands we trust to keep your facility secure.
Known for its intuitive platform, Alarm.com delivers smart access control with seamless integration into intrusion detection, video surveillance, and automation. Great for businesses looking for an easy-to-use, all-in-one security ecosystem.
A pioneer in cloud-based access control, Brivo brings flexibility and ease of management to commercial properties. Manage credentials, monitor events, and control doors from anywhere—perfect for property managers and growing businesses.
Known for modern cloud-based video surveillance, Rhombus also integrates access control with their platform—providing unified visibility across video and door events. An excellent choice for businesses wanting intelligent, data-driven security.
Combining enterprise-grade access control with native video integration and cloud management, Verkada is a powerhouse for modern businesses. Their sleek hardware and centralized dashboard make system management easy from anywhere.
Common Questions About Access Control
Access control systems are essential for securing your business premises. Here, we address some of the most frequently asked questions to help you make informed decisions.
What is an access control system?
An access control system is a security solution that manages who is allowed to enter or exit different areas of a facility. It can be as simple as a lock and key or as complex as biometric scanners.
How do cloud-based access control systems work?
Cloud-based systems store access data on remote servers, allowing for real-time updates and management from anywhere with internet access. This provides flexibility and scalability for businesses.
What are the benefits of on-premise systems?
On-premise systems offer complete control over your data and infrastructure, providing enhanced security for sensitive environments where data privacy is paramount.
Can I integrate access control with other security systems?
Yes, most modern access control systems can be integrated with CCTV, alarm systems, and other security solutions to provide comprehensive protection for your premises.
How often should access control systems be maintained?
Regular maintenance is crucial for ensuring the reliability of your access control system. We recommend scheduling professional inspections at least once a year.
Why choose Security Alarm Systems for access control?
We offer tailored solutions, expert installation, and ongoing support to ensure your business is secure. Our team is dedicated to providing the highest level of service and security expertise.
Contact Us
Let’s talk about your project.
Explore Our Resources
A helpful list of links to help you navigate around the Security Alarm Systems website