Smart Locks vs. Access Control: Which One Do I Need?
When it comes to managing access to your business, understanding the difference between smart locks and access control systems is crucial. While both offer keyless entry and remote access, their use cases differ significantly. Traditional smart locks are typically designed for residential security, whereas access control solutions are built for business security, offering advanced access management. But what if you need a solution that combines the best of both worlds? That’s where Centrios comes in—delivering an easy-to-use access control system with the same simplicity as a home smart lock for small business security.
What Are Smart Locks?
Smart locks are electronic keyless door locks that allow users to lock and unlock doors remotely using a smartphone app or PIN code. They are a great alternative to traditional locks and keys, offering added convenience and automation for small business owners, retail stores, and office security solutions.
What Is Access Control?
Access control systems provide business-grade security and centralized access management, specifically designed for small businesses. These systems use electronic locks, smart readers, and cloud-based software to control who can enter, when, and where. Unlike standalone smart locks, small business access control systems are designed for multi-user environments and high-traffic businesses.
Benefits of Access Control for Small Businesses:
Scalability – Manage multiple doors, locations, and employees from a single dashboard. Role-based permissions – Grant different levels of access to employees, contractors, and visitors. Audit trails & reporting – View real-time access logs for improved security monitoring. Remote access management – Grant or revoke access anytime from anywhere. Ideal for small business use – Essential for retail stores, professional offices, coworking spaces, and service-based businesses. Best locks for small businesses – A smart solution for securing commercial spaces without the hassle of traditional locks.
Smart Locks vs. Access Control: Key Differences
Smart locks are best suited for residential applications, offering individual lock control via a smartphone app. They typically use PIN codes, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi for access, making them ideal for homes. However, their scalability is limited, as they only support a few locks, are very limited in features, user-limits, and do not have an adequate security rating for small business door. Smart locks are generally low-traffic devices tailored for the residential space. Access control, on the other hand, is designed for small business security, allowing centralized management of multiple doors and users. These systems support key cards, mobile credentials, and cloud-based access, providing advanced security and scalability for businesses needing to control multiple locations and employee access. Access control often has a security rating/grading that is tailored for the needs of small businesses.
The Best of Both Worlds: Centrios for Small Businesses
For small business owners looking for a simple yet powerful access control system, Centrios bridges the gap between smart locks and business-grade access control. Unlike traditional access control systems that can be complex and costly, Centrios is designed to be as intuitive as a smart lock, but with the robust security features, capacities, and capabilities that businesses need.
Why Choose Centrios?
Choosing between smart locks and access control depends on your security needs. Do you need a lock for your house? A smart lock is what you're looking for. Do you need a lock for your business? You definitely need access control. If you're looking for a simple solution that bridges the gap between smart locks and access control, Centrios' access schedules, real-time event history, and mobile credentials are what you are looking for.
With Centrios, you don’t have to choose between simplicity and security—you get both. Whether you're managing a small retail shop, office, or service-based business, Centrios provides scalable, cloud-based access control that’s as easy as a smart lock but built for small business security solutions.
Ready to upgrade your business? Explore Centrios' access control solutions today at centrios.com.