Verkada access control and cameras review

Avigilon Alta and Verkada access control 

Verkada access control is an additional line from the cloud-based video management solution and surveillance camera company. The Verkada access control product consists of a cloud-based management platform, mobile credentials, a single reader design and two door controller products. Similar to Avigilon Alta, the Verkada system gives admins remote access to the cloud platform for easy management, and has features including remote unlock, custom access schedules and detailed activity logs. Before you install Verkada access control, review the following features of the system to determine the best door access control solution for your building or workplace. 

Complete Verkada access control and security camera review

Initially, Verkada solely offered video security solutions and later added access control to their list of products. The cloud-based Verkada access control system supports mobile and RFID card credentials and carries a visitor management product called Verkada Guest. The brand promotes a unified video and access experience with remote system management.

Access control hardware review 

Verkada’s hardware offerings include an access control reader and controller options. When comparing the hardware for Verkada access control reviews, it’s important to consider how many doors you need to support and the types of security systems you want to connect with. The Verkada controllers use Wiegand wiring connections, as well as Wi-Fi support.

Avigilon’s hardware line features a wide range of readers, including the Avigilon Alta Pro Reader, Intercom Readers and Embedded USB Smart Readers. Avigilon also offers controller options with the Single Door Controller, 4‑door and 8‑door options with ports, relays and extra outputs to allow additional sensors or Wiegand devices. The Avigilon Smart Hubs are designed to be tamper-resistant and fail-safe. If the internet goes down, your Avigilon hardware will still work, and the CloudSync feature means your data will still be available once power is restored.

The award-winning Avigilon Video Intercom Reader Pro and Video Reader Pro combine multiple security devices into one. Get the power of a multi-technology Smart Reader with the addition of a high-resolution, built-in camera to record live video of every access event and real-time video calling for visitors in a single device.

Mobile credentials and touchless capabilities

Mobile credentials are the most requested feature for access control systems, and it’s easy to see why. Mobile credentials are more secure, more convenient and easier to manage. Both Verkada and Avigilon Alta offer mobile credentials via a smartphone app. Both providers also enable touchless entry via BLE technology.

With Avigilon Alta’s mobile credentials, users can take advantage of the Wave to Unlock feature that uses motion detection to ensure unlock intention, preventing users from accidentally triggering an unlock just by being in proximity of the reader. Avigilon Alta’s mobile unlock is backed by patented Triple Unlock technology that provides a reliable, fast entry and exit experience even when the internet or cell service is down. Avigilon Alta supports various credentials, including iOS, Android, Apple Watch, tablet app, key cards and fobs. Plus, Avigilon Alta’s backward compatibility allows you to mix and match the credentials you want to use, and they all work on Avigilon Smart Readers. Because Avigilon is a complete access control provider, you can create branded key cards and fobs if desired.

Available access control integrations

One of the benefits of using access control that runs on an open platform is the ability to integrate with other security technologies. Verkada’s platform supports integrations with their sensors, alarms and video management system. Their video management system supports their own cameras and select third-party cameras can be integrated using their Command Connector.

Avigilon Alta runs on an open platform, allowing you to integrate the system with tools you already use and will need in the future. Built with open API architecture and convenient mobile SDKs, Avigilon Alta lets you easily connect any system you need to run your business. You can integrate your access control with user management tools, video security systems, tenant management and communication platforms, visitor check-in applications and even business tools like Slack and Zendesk. With an extensive library of 100+ native and out-of-the-box integrations, the Avigilon Alta access control platform is flexible and customizable to fit your needs.

Cost considerations for enterprise scalability

When considering Verkada for enterprise scalability, cost factors include hardware expenses, licensing fees and cloud storage costs. While the system is designed for easy expansion, organizations should account for long-term costs as they scale, including per-device fees and ongoing subscription plans for software updates, maintenance and support services.

Avigilon offers cost-effective options for scaling. The hardware is designed to be modular and easily expandable and manufactured to meet Avigilon’s strict compliance and quality standards, and all work seamlessly across all your locations.

You can also use Avigilon for destination dispatch elevators, turnstiles and parking garage applications, plus limit printer access or enable easy enrollment with the versatile Embedded USB Smart Reader. Mix and match to get the right fit for your business. All Avigilon products are easy to configure and connect, which makes adding new doors or locations effortless without breaking the bank.

Visitor access and management

Verkada’s visitor access and management solution, Verkada Guest, enables touchless check-in and provides a visual log of all visitors. The system integrates with Verkada’s video management system and access control for seamless monitoring. It operates as a standalone app and requires a separate subscription and license for full functionality.

Avigilon offers an all-in-one access control reader, video camera and intercom device. The Video Intercom Reader Pro allows businesses to route visitor calls based on unique user profiles and door schedules, remotely see who’s there and unlock the door on their mobile device, and enable touchless entry for credentialed users. The reader features a one-touch doorbell design with responsive AI-powered voice recognition to route calls to the right person at the right times. In addition, Avigilon Alta has a digital Guest Pass feature that allows visitors to scan in using a Cloud Key credential with custom access permissions for each visitor included with all Avigilon packages.

Safety solutions

Verkada’s lockdown feature allows administrators to secure a facility by locking doors remotely through the Verkada Command platform. This feature is designed for emergency situations, enabling instant lockdowns across multiple access points. It integrates with Verkada’s access control systems.

Avigilon Alta provides a free, cloud-based lockdown solution, with additional safety features available at no cost to schools and 501(c) 3 organizations. This feature enables rapid remote lockdown of all doors in an emergency. Accessible via mobile devices or computers, it allows real-time monitoring, customizable lockdown scenarios and instant notifications to staff and first responders. This solution enhances safety by preventing unauthorized access and offering seamless integration with existing security systems.

Benefits of Avigilon Alta access control

If you’re looking for a versatile and advanced access control system, Avigilon Alta offers a complete, touchless access control system with built-in video and door intercom functionality. With a range of reader and controller hardware, plus feature-rich cloud software, the Avigilon Alta system is built to scale effortlessly from a single door to hundreds of entries.

When it comes to choosing the best access control for your space, reliability and security are top concerns. Your access control system should work, even when the internet or cell service is spotty. Avigilon Alta’s system is backed by patented Triple Unlock technology, ensuring the unlock experience is fast and consistent every time. Avigilon’s hardware also has fail-safes to withstand power failures and optional backup battery power. The company puts security first, with strict policies to protect customers’ data and privacy.

To get the most out of your cloud-based access control system, you want to be able to connect your other apps and business tools. Seamless integrations will streamline your operations and reduce the burden on your administrative and IT teams. Avigilon Alta’s open API and ONVIF-compliant video platforms make it quick and easy to integrate with any video security system, user directory tools, visitor and tenant management platforms, communication apps and more. Plus, the touchless entry and exit with Avigilon Alta’s Wave to Unlock capabilities create a premium, frictionless user experience.

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.