Over the last few years, businesses have made a rapid transition from the old style of securing themselves traditional locks, key cards and stand-alone door controllers to new styles of security as more organizations have more offices, increasing numbers of employees work from home, and there is greater risk of companies and organizations encountering security breaches.
Between now and 2028, it is estimated that the Global Access Control Market will reach and exceed $17 billion due to increased demand for automated security systems, smart devices, mobile credentials, biometric authentication, artificial intelligence-enabled monitored systems, and other technologies. However, there has been a corresponding increase in concern within the industry regarding unauthorized access to buildings and properties, workplace accidents, employee theft, regulatory compliance failures, and various other issues.
Access control systems today can automate visitor management, permits remote configuration of locks, give real-time visibility of facilities, allow integration between security systems and CCTV systems, and allow a quicker response to significant security issues.
Flexible, scalable and smart Access Control systems are going to be highly valuable to many different types of businesses by 2026. An Access Control solution that meets your specific needs will provide both increased security and operational efficeiency at your organization.
Here are eight of the leading access control system solutions for businesses in 2026 along with brief summaries of their highlight features:
1. Coram
A unified Security Solution for artificial intelligence enabled intelligent access management and video surveillance, as well as emergency response capability. The primary distinction between Coram and other traditional access control system providers is that while other systems are focused solely on managing access to a door, Coram incorporates the access event with artificial intelligence-enabled intelligent videoAdministrators are able to access recorded video files in real time through this platform when forced doors are opened, access is granted or denied, or if there is any suspicious activity.
This platform works with current IP cameras and can also work with a multitude of access control systems. This means that users can deploy any hardware of their choosing without worrying about adverse financial effects.
This platform has several key strengths, which include: Security monitoring using AI, verification of video events, facial recognition, multiple geographically separated locations being controlled by one central system, capability of integrating with Emergency Response teams, and cloud based administration.
Coram would be an excellent option for an organization looking to implement a new security platform, since it is one of the most comprehensive systems available today in terms of features and functionality, especially as it relates to the management of more than just door access control.
2. Kisi
Kisi is one of the more popular choices for modern offices and technology companies.
Kisi’s Cloud-first architecture is appealing to companies with a Hybrid workforce because administrators can access credentials remotely, set up automated access control, and allow users to use their smartphones to gain access instead of physical card access.
Kisi has a simple user interface, is easy to configure, and interfaces with many other workplace management systems, making it a great choice for companies that prefer to have ease of use and mobile access.
3. Brivo
As a leading provider of cloud-based access control, Brivo has become a standard for many companies , due to their ability to allow administrators to manage remotely, manage visitors, and provide mobile access to users.
The Brivo Cloud also provides enterprise-level reporting and access to many building management, surveillance and identity management systems through their open API, making it very easy for companies that have multiple locations in multiple areas to manage their company’s security from anywhere through its Cloud-based system.
4. Avigilon Alta (Formally OpenPath)
Avigilon Alta provides users with the software needed for uninterrupted mobile access. With the use of Avigilon Alta’s mobile application, employees are able to enter their work locations easily through the unlocking of doors via their smartphones without needing to use a physical credential. Touchless doorways are an additional new feature that has been made available to users and have become very popular within today’s workplace.
In addition to providing a unified solution for access control and cloud-based video management, Avigilon Alta provides a user-friendly experience to help organizations conduct all security operations more efficiently. The various integrations within the Avigilon ecosystem and the large number of other integrations make the Avigilon Alta platform a very attractive option for enterprise organizations.
5. HID Global
HID Global is another name most people trust when it comes to physical security. HID is well-known for producing reliable credentialing technologies, smart cards, mobile authentication solutions, and physical access and identity management infrastructure for enterprise security.
HID is the leading choice for many large enterprises because of its extensive compatibility with third-party access control systems and its history demonstrating that it can be trusted to provide reliable and secure access control solutions. HID offers quality and cost effective identity management and credentialing technologies to meet the demands of customers requiring highly secure solutions.
6. Honeywell
Honeywell has a diverse line of physical access control solutions designed for organizations looking for deeper integration of security equipment systems within their facilities. Honeywell allows customers to connect access control systems with their intrusion detection systems, video surveillance systems, fire alarm systems, and their building management systems within a single unified environment.
Honeywell’s solution is applicable to businesses large commercial buildings, healthcare facilities, and industrial facilities; all of whom can leverage Honeywell’s comprehensive approach to implementing physical access control systems. Based upon the ability of the Honeywell platform to support complex enterprise access control deployments, Honeywell remains one of the leading access control providers in 2026.
7. LenelS2
LenelS2 continues to develop into one of the leading enterprise-level access control solutions available. Due to its advanced technology capabilities, the LenelS2 solution is often deployed in government, critical infrastructure, airport, and other high-security facilities where rigorous security requirements must be fulfilled.LenelS2 is often the top choice of organizations that have strict compliance mandates as the system is robust in terms of customization, analytics, centralized management, and integration capabilities and can accommodate larger operations.
8. AMAG Technology Symmetry
AMAG Technology’s Symmetry continues to service organizations requiring heavy customization in their access control system. The Symmetry platform contains the ability to support complex permission structures, allow for many third-party integrations, and includes enterprise level security management functions.
Due to its ability to support very customized security workflows and afford centralized oversight, large corporations and government agencies frequently employ the use of Symmetry.
The flexibility of Symmetry also enables organizations to obtain their own security solution through the use of Symmetry. .
Key Features to Look For When Buying Access Control in 2026
Access control systems today are a step above just controlling the door. Corporations seeking to maximize their return on investment would focus on:
- Cloud administration
- Mobile credentials
- Scalability for multiple locations
- Integration with video surveillance
- Visitor Management
- Artificial Intelligence based analytics
- Real-time alerts
- Role-based access permissions
- Compliance reporting
- Emergency response capabilities
Corporations that invest in these capabilities will improve security operations while reducing the administrative burden and complexity of their day-to-day operations.
How AI Is Changing Access Control
Artificial Intelligence is one of the largest innovations in Physical Security. New and emerging access control solutions can identify abnormal patterns of access attempts, automatically detect tailgating, automatically identify persons of interest and correlate access events with the associated video event.Coram represents an innovative solution that unifies AI-based surveillance systems with access control into one complete working environment providing security teams the resources to respond and make sound decisions at a quicker pace when incidents occur within a location.
As more organizations gain an interest and adopt intelligent security technologies, the ability to combine AI-based access control will greatly increase in use and popularity throughout non-residential areas.
Conclusion
Access control systems have transitioned from being an access management tool used only for opening doors to also being a complete and fully functional platform that organizations will use to drive operational efficiency, attain compliance and reduce risk.
When looking for the correct solution to be used to provide enhanced security at your business, you should consider the size of your organization, your existing infrastructure, your requirements regarding security, and your expected growth plans as you compare different options.
If your organization is seeking AI-based security, the integration of video verification and unified management, the Coram platform is one of the most advanced platforms in today’s market. Businesses who desire a predominantly cloud-based management system for their access control technology may consider Kisi, Brivo, or Avigilon Alta. Larger organizations using enterprise-level access control may also be considering LenelS2, HID Global, Honeywell, or AMAG Symmetry.
With the continuous evolution of today’s security threats, including the ever-evolving complexities of these threats anticipated to continue to evolve through 2026, businesses need to invest in modern access control technologies due to the role of protecting employees, facilities, and normal business operations is now expected from today’s organizations.
Commonly Asked Questions
What is an Access Control System?
Access control systems are security measures for controlling access into buildings, rooms and other protected areas. They authenticate users using credentials such as key cards, mobile devices, PINs, or biometric data.
Are Cloud Based Access Control Systems Secure?
Yes. Most cloud-based technology today utilizes encryption, role-based access, secure authentication methods, and have certification for compliance to protect the data and credentials provided for access.
Can Access Control Systems Integrate with Security Cameras?
Yes. Most vendors offer an integrative approach for combining access control and video surveillance, which allows administrators to. investigate incidents more effectively and provide a higher level of verification based on video evidence of what has occurred during an incident.
What Types of Organizations Benefit the Most from Access Control Systems?
Access control technology is utilized in a variety of organizations including: corporations; healthcare facilities; educational institutions; warehouses; manufacturing facilities; government buildings; retail outlets; as well as multi-location businesses.
Will Mobile Credentials Replace Key Cards?
As mobile credentials become more widely adopted for businesses looking to lower their cost of credential management, provide greater convenience, and provide a touchless way to gain access to their businesses.
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