Maintaining security is a top priority for all building owners and property managers. That means installing the most secure and up-to-date access control system possible. And the best type of access control system is cloud-based.
A handful of companies offer effective access control systems, and Genetec is among them. You may consider the Genetec Synergis system when seeking an access control system. This post reviews the Genetec Synergis and help you determine if it meets your needs and expectations.
This review covers:
- About Genetec
- How Genetec Synergis works
- Review of Genetec Synergis
- Should you get Genetec Synergis?
About Genetec
Genetec was founded in 1997, specializing in physical entrance security products. The company started by offering video monitoring, building access control, and license plate recognition systems. Since then, it has grown in size and technical know-how and stands on the principle that technology can break down barriers and make everyday life easier for its users.
Serving clients across industries — including data centers, financial institutions, corporate campuses, government agencies, airports, and college campuses — Genetec prioritizes security above all else. The company takes a comprehensive approach, developing and offering products that work together to enhance physical security in buildings.
How Genetec Synergis works
Every access control system must balance security impacts. Too stringent control of building access restricts business activity, while too lax control may create a dangerous breach. Genetec Synergis is an open access control system that strikes the right balance for seamless facility operation.
The Synergis system integrates with an expanding network of third-party devices. It gives users complete visibility of all building entry activity to protect personnel and property. Users can manage security system integrations from the Genetec Security Center platform.
Because Synergis isn’t a proprietary system, owners and operators can choose the types of hardware they want to install and use throughout the building. At the time of this publication, Genetec connects to various intelligent door control hardware, including SALTO locks and HID controllers.
Watch how ButterflyMX works:
Review of Genetec Synergis
As you consider a cloud-based access control system for your commercial or multi-unit residential building, consider some of the features, costs, and benefits Genetec Synergis offers.
Features
- Synergis Cloud Link: Replaces on-site servers but lets you use existing hardware and infrastructure. It includes a full range of embedded security functionalities.
- Genetec Security Center: Allows you to unify your access control system with third-party security systems such as license plate recognition, video surveillance, and intrusion monitoring.
- Enterprise-grade: Scaling your organization’s access control system is simple. With Synergis, you can manage systems across the globe.
- Easy to retrofit: Genetec automates database migration, making replacing an archaic system less costly and time-consuming.
- Real-time security updates: Synergis provides real-time security updates and information, allowing administrators to act immediately when situations arise.
- Analytics and reporting: The Synergis platform provides historical information and reports that aid analytics and future planning. You can access information such as the movement of employees and visitors in specific areas, persons denied access, and other applicable data.
Genetec cost
Because of the many possible equipment and software combinations, Genetec doesn’t publish pricing for its Synergis access control system online. However, you can request pricing by contacting the company.
Pros & cons
Pros:
- Integrates with existing systems
- Key cards are protected through advanced encryption and claims-based authentication.
- Cloud-based software allows administrators to update the system from anywhere.
- The company has broad industry expertise, including airports, retail, education, energy, and cities.
- Relatively easy to retrofit in existing buildings.
- The system automatically checks itself for accurate operation and faulty components.
Cons:
- Some advanced features are only available in premium plans
- No built-in video access control is listed for current models
- Some users report a steep learning curve
- Does not appear to cater specifically to multifamily buildings
- May not have visitor management features or solutions for visitors to request access
- Doesn’t appear to offer a mobile app for smartphone-based access
Should you get Genetec Synergis?
If you use multiple security systems from various providers across numerous locations, Genetec’s “power of unification” might be the solution you’re looking for. The Genetec Synergis system enables multiple products to work together as one.
Another benefit of Genetec is the ability to scale with your organization and ensure that your present security system won’t slow you down in the future. With the Synergis system, building administrators can use Genetec’s Security Center to connect and integrate their third-party security systems.
If you have a growing facility or plans for future expansion, the Genetec Synergis solution may be worth considering.
Alternatives to Genetec Synergis
If you’re looking for an access control system that improves security and convenience, consider ButterflyMX.
ButterflyMX is an all-in-one access control system for residential and commercial buildings. Its hardware products include a video intercom for building entry, keypad access control for secondary and interior doorways, and key lockers to manage access to apartment units with traditional locks. ButterflyMX also integrates with dozens of other proptech, access control, and property management systems to simplify processes for building owners and managers.
ButterflyMX’s access control devices are powered by the cloud-based ButterflyMX OS, which allows building administrators to manage access permissions, update the tenant directory, and review entry events from anywhere. Plus, the powerful ButterflyMX mobile app unlocks various convenient features for tenants.
Genetec vs. ButterflyMX
While Genetec offers a respectable access control system that may work for certain properties — namely, commercial facilities — it may not be the best choice for others, especially multifamily buildings. ButterflyMX offers a more robust solution to control access while offering convenient features for tenants and simplifying visitor management.
| Feature | ButterflyMX | Genetec Synergis |
|---|---|---|
| Visitor access | Yes | No |
| Apartment & multifamily usage | Yes | No |
| Remote access capabilities for tenants | Yes | No |
| Built-in camera | Yes | No |
| Mobile app | Yes | No |
| Virtual keys | Yes | No |
| Integrations with other systems | Yes | Yes |
Disclaimer: ButterflyMX provides these blog posts to help our customers and potential customers make the right business decisions for them. Our blog posts are based on the information we have available to us at the time of writing.