Genetec Synergis: A Next-Generation On-Premise Access Control System
As physical security continues to evolve, organizations require flexible, scalable, and intelligent access control solutions to safeguard their people, property, and assets. Genetec Synergis™ is an enterprise-class on-premise access control management system (ACMS) that eliminates the limitations of proprietary systems while providing an open-architecture, future-proof approach to access security. Whether for corporate environments, government facilities, educational institutions, healthcare campuses, or critical infrastructure, Synergis delivers unified security management, real-time insights, and industry-leading cybersecurity protections.
In this article, we will explore the key capabilities of Synergis, how it enhances operational efficiency, and why it stands out as an innovative solution in the evolving landscape of access control technology.
What is Genetec Synergis?
Genetec Synergis is an IP-based access control system that provides centralized security management for organizations of all sizes. As a core module of Genetec Security Center, Synergis seamlessly integrates with video surveillance, intrusion detection, license plate recognition, and intercom systems to deliver a truly unified security platform.
Key Benefits of Synergis:
- Vendor-Agnostic & Open-Architecture – Supports a vast ecosystem of access control hardware from trusted manufacturers.
- Scalable & Flexible Deployment – Works for small businesses to global enterprises, with options for on-premise, hybrid, or cloud integrations.
- Cybersecure by Design – Utilizes end-to-end encryption, certificate authentication, and advanced cybersecurity features.
- Unifies Security Operations – Integrates with Genetec Security Center for video surveillance, alarms, and identity management.
Breaking Free from Proprietary Systems
Traditional access control systems often rely on proprietary hardware and software, making them expensive to maintain and difficult to scale. Synergis removes these barriers by supporting non-proprietary access control controllers, modules, and electronic locks, allowing organizations to choose the best technology to meet their security needs.
Supported Hardware:
- IP Door Controllers – Mercury EP, LP, and Axis A1001 & A1601 controllers
- Electronic Locks – Wireless, WiFi, PoE locks from Assa Abloy, Schlage, BEST, and SimonsVoss
- Biometric Readers – Support for IDEMIA, Suprema, Invixium, and Real Network SAFR
- Secure Credential Management – HID Seos, DESFire, and OSDP-enabled readers
By embracing an open-architecture approach, organizations using Synergis can reduce their total cost of ownership (TCO) while ensuring they are not locked into a single vendor.
Beyond Door Access: Securing Your Entire Facility
Synergis extends security beyond conventional door readers and keypads, offering a comprehensive suite of access control functionalities:
1. Perimeter & Facility Security
- Vehicle Gate & Parking Management – Integrates with Genetec AutoVu™ license plate recognition to automate vehicle access control.
- Turnstiles & Elevator Control – Restricts unauthorized movement between floors and zones using intelligent credentialing.
- Remote & Mobile Access – Administrators can monitor and lock/unlock doors, trigger alarms, and change access permissions from mobile devices.
2. Advanced Threat Management
- Real-Time Identity Tracking – Monitor and verify access credentials across multiple sites.
- Threat Level Management – Instantly modify security settings based on predefined threat conditions.
- Evacuation Assistance – Track personnel movements in emergencies and generate muster reports to account for personnel.
3. Unified Identity & Credential Management
- Microsoft Active Directory Integration – Syncs user credentials across IT and security systems.
- Multi-Site Cardholder Federation – Manage cardholders and credentials across multiple independent systems.
- Mobile & Biometric Authentication – Supports digital credentials via HID Origo, facial recognition, and fingerprint scanning.
By implementing multi-layered access control policies, Synergis helps organizations enhance security, enforce compliance, and streamline operations.
Enhanced Cybersecurity for Modern Threats
With cybersecurity risks on the rise, legacy access control systems are vulnerable to credential spoofing, unauthorized access, and network intrusions. Synergis mitigates these risks with an advanced security framework, including:
- End-to-End Encryption – TLS-secured communications protect credential data and system integrity.
- Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) – Enforces additional layers of identity verification.
- Certificate-Based Authentication – Uses cryptographic signatures to secure system communications.
- Zero-Trust Architecture – Restricts access permissions based on role-based security policies.
For government and high-security applications, Synergis supports FIPS 201-2 compliance for secure card issuance and credentialing.
Scalability & Deployment Options
One of Synergis’ standout features is its deployment flexibility, allowing businesses to choose a model that fits their infrastructure:
1. On-Premises
- Complete control over security data and system configurations.
- Best suited for high-security environments, such as military, government, and critical infrastructure.
2. Hybrid (Cloud + On-Premises)
- Utilizes Synergis Cloud Link to connect on-premises controllers with cloud-based security enhancements.
- Ideal for enterprises transitioning to cloud access control while maintaining local infrastructure.
3. Fully Cloud-Managed
- Deploy access control as a service (ACaaS) with Security Center SaaS.
- Reduces IT maintenance and allows for remote security management from any device.
The ability to migrate between deployment types ensures that organizations can future-proof their security investments without costly overhauls.
Seamless Integration with Video & Security Ecosystems
Synergis is designed to unify access control with video surveillance, intercoms, intrusion detection, and other security platforms. By integrating with Genetec Security Center, users gain:
- Live video monitoring of access events via unified dashboards.
- Automated video verification for access anomalies, forced entries, and unauthorized access attempts.
- Federated Security Management – Monitor and control multiple locations from a single interface.
Additionally, Synergis supports third-party security integrations, allowing businesses to enhance their security posture with AI-driven video analytics, license plate recognition, and identity verification.
Why Choose MCA for Your Access Control Needs?
As a leading security technology integrator, MCA partners with Genetec and other industry leaders to provide organizations with cutting-edge access control solutions. Our expert team designs, installs, and supports Synergis deployments tailored to corporate, healthcare, education, and government environments.
What Sets MCA Apart?
- Top 10 Security Integrator – Recognized by SDM Magazine for excellence in security integration.
- Certified Genetec Partner – Authorized to sell, install, and maintain Genetec Synergis and Security Center solutions.
- Custom Security Solutions – We assess your specific security needs to ensure optimal system selection and deployment.
- Comprehensive Support & Maintenance – Offering 24/7 technical support, managed services, and compliance consulting.
Next Steps: Find the Right Access Control Solution
Is Genetec Synergis the right access control solution for your organization? Or would a different on-premise or cloud-based ACMS be a better fit? MCA’s access control specialists will work with you to assess your security needs, recommend the best solution, and ensure seamless integration with your existing security infrastructure.
Contact us today to learn more about Genetec Synergis and how MCA can help secure your facilities with the latest in access control technology.
