Quick Overview
- 1#1: Genetec Security Center - Unified platform delivering advanced access control, video management, and security analytics for enterprise door access.
- 2#2: LenelS2 OnGuard - Comprehensive enterprise access control software managing doors, credentials, and events across large facilities.
- 3#3: C•CURE 9000 - Scalable access control system providing real-time monitoring and management of door access for secure environments.
- 4#4: Honeywell Pro-Watch - Intelligent access control solution integrating door hardware, biometrics, and intrusion detection.
- 5#5: Verkada Access Control - Cloud-managed access control system combining mobile credentials, readers, and integrated cameras for doors.
- 6#6: Brivo Access Control - Cloud-based platform enabling remote management of door access, users, and permissions via mobile app.
- 7#7: Kisi Cloud Access Control - Modern cloud access control software supporting touchless entry, integrations, and scalable door management.
- 8#8: Avigilon Alta - Cloud-native access control platform for seamless door unlocking, video integration, and user management.
- 9#9: Paxton Net2 - Flexible access control software for controlling doors, gates, and barriers with easy-to-use interfaces.
- 10#10: Salto KS - Cloud access management system providing virtual network keys and real-time door access control.
Tools were ranked based on robust feature sets, reliable performance, user-friendly interfaces, and strong value, ensuring they balance technical capability, practical usability, and long-term adaptability across varied environments.
Comparison Table
This comparison table examines leading door access software tools, such as Genetec Security Center, LenelS2 OnGuard, C•CURE 9000, Honeywell Pro-Watch, Verkada Access Control, and more, breaking down their core features and functionalities. It helps readers identify which platform best suits their security needs, operational workflows, and scalability requirements to make informed choices for their access control systems.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Genetec Security Center Unified platform delivering advanced access control, video management, and security analytics for enterprise door access. | enterprise | 9.7/10 | 9.8/10 | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 2 | LenelS2 OnGuard Comprehensive enterprise access control software managing doors, credentials, and events across large facilities. | enterprise | 9.1/10 | 9.6/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 3 | C•CURE 9000 Scalable access control system providing real-time monitoring and management of door access for secure environments. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.4/10 | 7.6/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 4 | Honeywell Pro-Watch Intelligent access control solution integrating door hardware, biometrics, and intrusion detection. | enterprise | 8.6/10 | 9.3/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 5 | Verkada Access Control Cloud-managed access control system combining mobile credentials, readers, and integrated cameras for doors. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 6 | Brivo Access Control Cloud-based platform enabling remote management of door access, users, and permissions via mobile app. | enterprise | 8.6/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.4/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 7 | Kisi Cloud Access Control Modern cloud access control software supporting touchless entry, integrations, and scalable door management. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 8.8/10 | 8.6/10 | 7.7/10 |
| 8 | Avigilon Alta Cloud-native access control platform for seamless door unlocking, video integration, and user management. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 9 | Paxton Net2 Flexible access control software for controlling doors, gates, and barriers with easy-to-use interfaces. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 8.5/10 | 9.0/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 10 | Salto KS Cloud access management system providing virtual network keys and real-time door access control. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.7/10 | 7.9/10 |
Unified platform delivering advanced access control, video management, and security analytics for enterprise door access.
Comprehensive enterprise access control software managing doors, credentials, and events across large facilities.
Scalable access control system providing real-time monitoring and management of door access for secure environments.
Intelligent access control solution integrating door hardware, biometrics, and intrusion detection.
Cloud-managed access control system combining mobile credentials, readers, and integrated cameras for doors.
Cloud-based platform enabling remote management of door access, users, and permissions via mobile app.
Modern cloud access control software supporting touchless entry, integrations, and scalable door management.
Cloud-native access control platform for seamless door unlocking, video integration, and user management.
Flexible access control software for controlling doors, gates, and barriers with easy-to-use interfaces.
Cloud access management system providing virtual network keys and real-time door access control.
Genetec Security Center
enterpriseUnified platform delivering advanced access control, video management, and security analytics for enterprise door access.
Unified Security Platform that correlates access events with live video and alarms in a single operations center
Genetec Security Center, featuring the Synergis access control module, is a comprehensive unified security platform that delivers enterprise-grade door access management alongside video surveillance, intrusion detection, and more. It supports scalable deployments from small sites to global enterprises with thousands of doors, offering centralized management, real-time monitoring, and advanced analytics. The system excels in IP-based access control with support for diverse hardware via its open architecture.
Pros
- Highly scalable for managing thousands of doors across multiple sites
- Seamless integration with video management and other security subsystems
- Open platform supporting a wide range of third-party readers, controllers, and credentials
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex initial configuration
- Premium pricing inaccessible for small businesses
- Requires dedicated IT/security expertise for optimal deployment
Best For
Large enterprises and campuses requiring integrated, scalable access control within a unified security ecosystem.
Pricing
Enterprise custom pricing, typically perpetual licenses starting at $100+ per door plus annual maintenance, or subscription models from $50/door/year; quotes required.
LenelS2 OnGuard
enterpriseComprehensive enterprise access control software managing doors, credentials, and events across large facilities.
Open Access Alliance (OAA) ecosystem enabling seamless integration with over 3,000 certified third-party devices and controllers
LenelS2 OnGuard is an enterprise-grade access control software solution designed for managing secure door access across large-scale facilities. It offers robust features like credential management, multi-site support, mobile credentials, and integration with biometrics and smart cards. As part of a unified security platform, it combines access control with video management, alarms, and intrusion detection for comprehensive physical security.
Pros
- Highly scalable for thousands of doors and multi-site deployments
- Extensive integrations via Open Access Alliance (OAA) with thousands of third-party devices
- Advanced analytics, reporting, and mobile credential support
Cons
- Complex configuration requires specialized training and expertise
- High upfront costs for licensing and hardware
- Interface can feel dated compared to modern cloud-native alternatives
Best For
Large enterprises and campuses needing scalable, integrated access control with broad hardware compatibility.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing; perpetual licenses typically $100-$300 per door/reader plus annual maintenance (15-20%), with minimums in the tens of thousands.
C•CURE 9000
enterpriseScalable access control system providing real-time monitoring and management of door access for secure environments.
Distributed Edge architecture for resilient, high-availability access control with local processing at controllers
C•CURE 9000 by Johnson Controls is an enterprise-grade physical security information management (PSIM) system that excels in door access control, supporting unlimited readers, doors, and users across distributed sites. It integrates access control with intrusion detection, video surveillance, elevators, and building automation for comprehensive security management. The platform features advanced person management, event-driven automation, and customizable reporting, making it suitable for large-scale deployments.
Pros
- Highly scalable for thousands of doors and multi-site operations
- Seamless integration with over 2,000 third-party devices and Johnson Controls systems
- Advanced analytics and automation for proactive security management
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex initial configuration
- Premium pricing limits accessibility for smaller organizations
- Requires specialized training and ongoing support
Best For
Large enterprises, campuses, and critical infrastructure sites needing integrated, scalable access control with broader security features.
Pricing
Custom enterprise licensing; typically starts at $50,000+ annually based on doors, sites, and modules (quote required).
Honeywell Pro-Watch
enterpriseIntelligent access control solution integrating door hardware, biometrics, and intrusion detection.
PSIM architecture unifying access control, video verification, and intrusion alarms in a single intuitive interface
Honeywell Pro-Watch is an enterprise-grade Physical Security Information Management (PSIM) platform specializing in intelligent access control for doors and facilities. It supports a wide range of readers, biometrics, mobile credentials, and anti-passback features, while integrating seamlessly with video surveillance, intrusion detection, and building automation. The software provides real-time event management, customizable workflows, and scalable deployment for large-scale operations.
Pros
- Highly scalable for enterprise environments with thousands of doors
- Deep integration with video, alarms, and third-party systems
- Advanced reporting, analytics, and compliance tools
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex configuration
- High upfront costs and ongoing maintenance
- Overkill for small to medium businesses
Best For
Large enterprises and campuses needing integrated, scalable access control with full security ecosystem management.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; typically starts at $20,000+ for base access control modules, scaling with users, doors, and integrations.
Verkada Access Control
enterpriseCloud-managed access control system combining mobile credentials, readers, and integrated cameras for doors.
Native video integration showing live/pre-recorded footage for every access event directly in the access dashboard
Verkada Access Control is a cloud-managed door access solution that integrates tightly with Verkada's video surveillance, alarms, and analytics platforms for comprehensive physical security. It supports mobile credentials, NFC readers, PIN pads, and customizable access rules with real-time event monitoring via a unified web dashboard. The system scales easily without on-premises servers, making it ideal for multi-site deployments, and includes features like anti-passback and geofencing.
Pros
- Seamless integration with video surveillance for instant event verification
- Cloud-based management with no NVR/DVR servers required
- Advanced features like mobile-first credentials and automatic firmware updates
Cons
- High upfront hardware and subscription costs
- Requires reliable high-speed internet for full functionality
- Limited native integrations with non-Verkada third-party systems
Best For
Medium to large enterprises needing an all-in-one cloud security platform with video-linked access control.
Pricing
Hardware (readers/controllers) from $500+ per door upfront, plus Command subscription ~$199-$299 per door/year depending on features.
Brivo Access Control
enterpriseCloud-based platform enabling remote management of door access, users, and permissions via mobile app.
Fully cloud-native platform with automatic updates and zero on-site server maintenance
Brivo Access Control is a cloud-based access control platform designed for secure door management across commercial properties, offices, and multi-site enterprises. It enables remote administration of doors, users, and credentials through a web portal and mobile app, supporting key cards, fobs, PINs, and mobile credentials via Bluetooth or NFC. The system integrates seamlessly with video surveillance, intrusion alarms, and third-party apps for comprehensive security oversight.
Pros
- Cloud-hosted architecture allows scalable remote management without on-premise servers
- Advanced mobile credentials and multi-factor authentication options
- Strong integrations with CCTV, alarms, and building management systems
Cons
- Subscription pricing can be expensive for small-scale deployments
- Requires stable internet connectivity, with potential downtime risks
- Initial hardware setup (readers/controllers) adds upfront costs
Best For
Mid-sized businesses and enterprises needing scalable, multi-site cloud access control with robust integrations.
Pricing
Subscription starts at ~$15-25 per door/month (billed annually), plus one-time hardware costs for readers and controllers (~$500-1,500 per door).
Kisi Cloud Access Control
specializedModern cloud access control software supporting touchless entry, integrations, and scalable door management.
Proximity-based mobile access using Bluetooth, allowing hands-free door unlocking without needing to pull out a phone or card
Kisi Cloud Access Control is a modern, cloud-based platform designed for managing physical door access in commercial buildings, offices, and campuses. It supports mobile credentials via Bluetooth or NFC, keycards, PIN codes, and integrates with existing or Kisi-specific hardware like readers and locks. Administrators can manage users, permissions, schedules, and audits remotely through an intuitive web dashboard, with features like visitor management and integrations with HR systems and surveillance cameras.
Pros
- Fully cloud-managed for remote scalability and no on-premises servers required
- Mobile-first access reduces keycards and enhances user convenience
- Strong integrations with HR tools, video systems, and 100+ apps for seamless workflows
Cons
- Pricing can be steep for small businesses or single-door setups
- Requires reliable high-speed internet to avoid access delays
- Initial hardware installation may involve professional setup costs
Best For
Medium to large enterprises and multi-site organizations needing scalable, mobile-centric access control with robust analytics.
Pricing
Custom quotes based on doors/users; Essentials starts ~$4/door/month, Pro ~$7/door/month, Enterprise custom with advanced features.
Avigilon Alta
enterpriseCloud-native access control platform for seamless door unlocking, video integration, and user management.
Unified access control and AI-powered video analytics in a single cloud platform
Avigilon Alta is a cloud-based access control platform from Motorola Solutions that manages door access, elevators, and secure areas with mobile credentials and visitor management. It integrates tightly with Avigilon's video surveillance for unified security operations, enabling real-time event verification and remote management. Ideal for multi-site enterprises, it supports scalable deployments with robust analytics and compliance reporting.
Pros
- Seamless integration with Avigilon video surveillance for enhanced verification
- Cloud scalability for multi-site management without on-premise hardware
- Advanced mobile credentials and visitor management tools
Cons
- Higher pricing suited more for enterprises than small businesses
- Setup requires integration expertise for optimal performance
- Limited third-party hardware compatibility compared to open platforms
Best For
Mid-to-large enterprises seeking integrated access control and video security across multiple locations.
Pricing
Subscription-based, typically $15-30 per door/month plus hardware; custom enterprise quotes required.
Paxton Net2
specializedFlexible access control software for controlling doors, gates, and barriers with easy-to-use interfaces.
Unlimited doors and users on a single free software license, enabling cost-effective scalability.
Paxton Net2 is a robust access control software platform from Paxton Access, designed for managing door entry, user permissions, and security events across single sites or multi-site installations. It supports proximity cards, PIN entry, biometrics, and keypads, with real-time monitoring, event logging, and integrations for CCTV, intruder alarms, and time/attendance systems. The system scales seamlessly from one door to over 10,000, using a single free software license.
Pros
- Intuitive drag-and-drop online diagramming for easy system design and management
- Free software license supports unlimited doors and users with no per-door fees
- Reliable integration with Paxton's ecosystem including PoE readers and wireless options
Cons
- Proprietary hardware creates vendor lock-in and limits third-party compatibility
- Windows-only desktop software with basic mobile app functionality
- Upfront hardware costs can add up for larger installations
Best For
Small to medium-sized businesses and facilities managers needing scalable, user-friendly access control without licensing fees.
Pricing
Software is free; hardware includes control units (~$250-$400/door) plus readers and accessories.
Salto KS
specializedCloud access management system providing virtual network keys and real-time door access control.
Cloud-native KS Core engine enabling unlimited scalability and real-time wireless lock management without on-premises servers
Salto KS is a cloud-native access control platform from Salto Systems designed for managing secure door access across facilities using wireless locks, mobile credentials, and smartcards. It provides centralized user management, real-time monitoring, scheduling, and reporting for doors, elevators, and other entry points. The system supports multi-site deployments and integrates with building management systems for comprehensive security.
Pros
- Scalable cloud architecture for multi-site management
- Strong support for mobile and Bluetooth credentials
- Robust integrations with third-party hardware and software
Cons
- Requires Salto-specific wireless hardware
- Setup and configuration can be complex for smaller teams
- Pricing is quote-based and tends to be premium
Best For
Mid-sized to enterprise organizations seeking scalable, wireless access control with mobile integration.
Pricing
Quote-based subscription model, typically $15-30 per door/month depending on scale and features.
Conclusion
Genetec Security Center leads as the top choice, unifying advanced access control, video management, and analytics for enterprise needs. LenelS2 OnGuard and C•CURE 9000 stand out as strong alternatives, with OnGuard excelling in comprehensive enterprise management and C•CURE offering scalable real-time monitoring, catering to diverse organizational requirements. These tools collectively demonstrate the power of modern door access software.
Step into seamless security—try Genetec Security Center to unlock its robust features and optimize your door access management.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison