Every year, U.S. businesses lose billions to theft, trespassing, and unauthorized access. According to the NRF’s 2024 Retail Security Survey, retailers alone suffered $112.1 billion in shrinkage losses, with 36% linked to external theft, such as shoplifting, break-ins, and unapproved entry. However, retail isn’t the only vulnerable sector. Banks, airports, healthcare facilities, and data centers all face serious risks when access isn’t properly managed. That’s where Genetec access control systems come in.
Designed for industries with high security demands, Genetec provides advanced access control solutions to keep unauthorized individuals out while giving approved users seamless access. In addition, the solution lets businesses and commercial spaces monitor entry points in real time, assign permissions by role, respond instantly to threats, and integrate with video surveillance, all through a centralized system. Whether it’s a corporate office, airport, bank, hospital, or transit hub, Genetec helps organizations tighten control without creating operational challenges.
In this article, we’ll explore Genetec’s Synergis platform and overall access control system. We will also discuss its features, pricing options, pros and cons, and how it stacks up against other security brands. We’ll answer common questions to help you decide whether Genetec is the right fit for your organization.
About Genetec
Genetec is a Canadian technology company that builds security software for businesses, cities, and public organizations. The company was founded in 1997 and is based in Montréal, Québec. Over the years, Genetec has grown into a global leader in physical security, helping thousands of customers protect their buildings, people, and data.
What makes Genetec different is its focus on unified security. Instead of using separate systems for video surveillance, access control, and license plate recognition, Genetec combines everything into one platform. This makes it easier for security teams to monitor activity, respond to threats, and manage operations from a single dashboard.
Today, Genetec serves industries like banking, healthcare, education, retail, airports, and public safety. Whether it’s a corporate office or a city-wide transit system, Genetec helps organizations stay secure, stay informed, and stay in control.
Genetec’s Synergis Access Control System – About the Product
Genetec’s Synergis Access Control System is a cutting-edge solution that offers a smart way for businesses to control who can enter their buildings. Instead of using old-fashioned keys or complicated setups, Synergis lets companies manage access through a single, easy-to-use platform. It works with different types of hardware, such as card readers, electronic locks, and door controllers, and connects everything through the cloud or on-site servers.
One of the best features about Synergis is that it’s flexible. Businesses can use their existing equipment or choose new devices that fit their needs. The system also works with other security tools, like video cameras and alarm systems, to ensure that everything runs together smoothly. If someone tries to enter a restricted area, the system can alert security teams right away.
Whether it’s a hospital, airport, school, or office building, Synergis helps keep people safe and operations running smoothly. This advanced access control system gives security teams full control over who gets in, when, and where, without slowing things down.
Features of Genetec’s Synergis Access Control System
Genetec’s Synergis Access Control System offers a wide range of features that help businesses manage security with confidence and ease. Whether you’re protecting a single site or multiple locations, Synergis gives you the tools to control access, monitor activity, and respond quickly to threats. Here’s a closer look at its key features:
1. Unified Security Platform
Synergis connects with Genetec’s Security Center, bringing access control, video surveillance, license plate recognition, and intrusion detection into one dashboard. This unified view helps security teams make faster, smarter decisions without switching between systems.
2. Flexible Hardware Support
In addition, the system is flexible, and you don’t have to replace your existing equipment. Synergis works with a wide range of third-party devices, including popular brands like HID and Mercury. This saves money and makes upgrades easier without locking you into proprietary hardware.
3. Cloud-Ready Deployment
With Synergis Cloud Link, businesses can manage access remotely while still using on-site hardware. It’s ideal for companies transitioning to cloud-based security or managing multiple locations from a central point.
4. Real-Time Monitoring & Alerts
What’s more, the system tracks who enters and exits in real time and sends instant alerts if someone tries to access a restricted area. This helps security teams respond quickly to suspicious activity and prevent potential breaches.
5. Advanced Cybersecurity
Synergis uses strong encryption, secure communication protocols, and multi-factor authentication to protect sensitive data. It’s built to meet high cybersecurity standards. Thus, making it a safe choice for industries like banking and healthcare.
6. Scalable Design
Whether you’re managing a small office or a global enterprise, Synergis can grow with your needs. It supports thousands of users and multiple sites. This makes it easy to expand without overhauling your entire system.
7. Easy Integration with Other Tools
Synergis works smoothly with video cameras, alarms, identity management systems, and more. This allows businesses to build a complete security setup that fits their unique needs and workflows.
8. Offline Capabilities
Even if the internet goes down, Synergis keeps working. It stores access data locally and syncs it once the connection is restored. This helps to ensure uninterrupted security during outages.
9. Custom Access Rules
Also, users can set detailed access permissions based on roles, schedules, or locations. This means employees, visitors, and contractors only get access to the areas they need and nothing more. This can help prevent unauthorized assets and improve building security.
10. Detailed Reports & Analytics
Synergis tracks access history and generates reports that help with audits, investigations, and planning. These insights can improve security policies and support compliance with industry regulations.
The Synergis Access Control System is more than just door management. It’s a full-scale solution built for today’s security challenges. With its smart integrations, flexible setup, and powerful monitoring tools, businesses and commercial buildings can protect their spaces, streamline their operations, and adapt to changing needs.
Genetec’s Synergis Access Control System Pricing
However, Genetec doesn’t list fixed prices for its Synergis Access Control System online. The cost depends on what your business needs. Every setup is different. Some companies use existing hardware like card readers and door locks, while others want a full upgrade with cloud-based tools and advanced integrations.
Instead of offering one-size-fits-all pricing, Genetec builds custom packages based on your building size, number of users, hardware choices, and security goals. You’ll need to contact Genetec or one of their certified partners to get a quote tailored to your setup.
While exact numbers aren’t public, many users say the system is cost-effective in the long run, especially for large sites. That’s because Synergis works with third-party hardware, helps avoid expensive replacements, and scales easily as your business grows. In addition, features like real-time monitoring and remote access can save time and reduce security risks. Thereby, adding value beyond the upfront cost.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Genetec’s Synergis Access Control System
As mentioned earlier, Genetec’s Synergis system is built to help businesses manage who gets in and out of their buildings, safely and efficiently. Like any security tool, it has strengths and limitations. Here’s a clear look at what it does well and where it might fall short:
Advantages
- Works with Existing Hardware: You don’t need to throw out your current card readers or door locks. Synergis supports many third-party devices, which helps cut down on upgrade costs.
- Unified Security Platform: It connects access control with video surveillance, license plate recognition, and intrusion detection, all in one dashboard. This makes it easier to monitor and respond to security events.
- Scalable for Growth: Whether you’re managing one office or multiple locations, Synergis can grow with your business. It supports thousands of users and sites without needing a full system overhaul.
- Cloud and On-Premise Options: You can choose how you want to run the system. This can be fully on-site, in the cloud, or a mix of both. This flexibility helps meet different IT and security needs.
- Strong Cybersecurity: Synergis uses encryption and secure communication to protect sensitive data. It’s built to handle modern threats and meet strict compliance standards.
- Real-Time Monitoring and Alerts: Security teams can track access activity live and get instant alerts if someone tries to enter a restricted area. This helps stop problems before they escalate.
- Custom Access Rules: You can set different permissions for employees, visitors, and contractors. This keeps sensitive areas protected while allowing smooth access where needed.
- Offline Functionality: Even if your internet goes down, Synergis keeps working. It stores data locally and syncs once the connection is back.
Disadvantages
- No Mobile App for End Users: Unlike some competitors, Synergis doesn’t offer a mobile app for employees or visitors to unlock doors or request access.
- Steep Learning Curve: Some users say the system takes time to learn, especially when using advanced features like intrusion detection or area tracking.
- Limited Visitor Management Tools: Synergis doesn’t include built-in tools for managing guest access. This may be a drawback for buildings with frequent visitors.
- Premium Features May Cost More: Some advanced tools, like analytics or multi-site federation, are only available in higher-tier plans, which could increase costs.
- No Built-In Video Access Control: While it integrates with video systems, Synergis doesn’t offer built-in video access features like intercoms or visual verification.
Genetec’s Synergis system is a powerful choice for businesses that need flexible, secure, and scalable access control. It’s especially useful for large organizations and critical infrastructure. However, smaller teams may find the system’s advanced features and setup more complex than necessary for their everyday access control needs.
Genetec Access Control vs. The Competition
Genetec’s access control system is built for businesses that need strong security and flexible tools. But how does it compare to other popular brands in the market? Let’s take a look at how Genetec stacks up against competitors like LenelS2, Avigilon, Kisi, Brivo, ButterflyMX, and Honeywell.
1. Genetec vs. LenelS2
LenelS2 is known for its enterprise-level security, often used in airports and government buildings. Genetec offers similar power but with a more modern interface and better integration with video surveillance. While LenelS2 can be harder to set up and manage, Genetec is easier to use and more flexible for growing businesses.
2. Genetec vs. Avigilon
Avigilon focuses heavily on AI-powered video surveillance and on-premise access control. Genetec, on the other hand, offers both cloud and on-site options. It also provides a unified platform that connects access control with video, license plate recognition, and intrusion detection, all in one place.
3. Genetec vs. Kisi
Kisi is designed for fast setup and remote access. It works great for smaller teams that want mobile-friendly, cloud-based control without extra hardware. Conversely, Genetec offers more advanced security tools, flexible deployment, and deep integration across video, access control, and intrusion systems. It’s built for complex spaces like airports, hospitals, and data centers.
4. Genetec vs. Brivo
Brivo is a cloud-based access control provider with a simple setup and mobile-friendly tools. Genetec offers more advanced features and deeper customization, making it better suited for large organizations or complex security needs. Brivo is great for small businesses, while Genetec shines in multi-site environments.
5. Genetec vs. ButterflyMX
ButterflyMX is built for apartment buildings and gated communities, with a focus on smart intercoms and visitor access. Genetec is designed for commercial and public spaces like hospitals, schools, and corporate offices. If you need full control over employee access and security systems, Genetec is the better fit.
6. Genetec vs. Honeywell
Honeywell provides strong on-premise access control with smart card readers and biometric tools. Genetec offers similar security but adds cloud-ready options and better integration with other systems. Genetec’s platform is more flexible and easier to manage remotely, especially for teams that need real-time control.
Genetec stands out for its unified platform, flexible setup, and strong cybersecurity features. While other brands offer great tools, Genetec brings everything together in one system. This makes it a top choice for businesses that want smart, scalable, and reliable access control.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, Genetec’s Synergis Access Control System is more than just a security upgrade. It’s a smart investment for businesses and commercial buildings that want to protect their people, spaces, and data. With tools that support real-time monitoring, flexible setups, and strong cybersecurity, you get peace of mind and full control, no matter the size of your operation.
Whether you’re running a corporate office, managing multiple sites, or securing a hospital or airport, Genetec brings the seamless combination of power and simplicity. Though, it’s not the cheapest or flashiest system. Nonetheless, if you’re serious about long-term safety, reliability, and growth, it’s a strong choice that won’t hold you back. Hence, if your business or commercial space needs a dependable, scalable, and easy-to-manage access control system, Genetec is definitely worth a closer look.
Frequently Asked Questions About Genetec Access Control
- Is Genetec a good access control system?
- Yes, Genetec is trusted by businesses and several industries around the world for its strong security features, flexible setup, and ability to grow with your needs. It’s especially popular in industries like healthcare, banking, education, aviation, and transportation.
- What country is Genetec access control from?
- Genetec is based in Canada. The company was founded in Montréal, Québec, and still operates its global headquarters there.
- Can Genetec work with my existing hardware?
- In most cases, yes. Genetec’s Synergis system supports many third-party devices. Therefore, you can keep your current card readers, locks, and controllers without starting from scratch.
- Does Genetec offer cloud-based access control?
- Absolutely. Genetec provides both cloud and on-premise options. This gives businesses the freedom to choose what works best for their setup.
- Is Genetec access control easy to manage?
- While it has advanced features, Genetec is designed to be user-friendly. Security teams can monitor activity, set access rules, and respond to alerts all from one dashboard.
