User Guide: Choosing the Right Ubiquiti Door Access Control System for Your Business

A door access control system is essential for securing your business premises while ensuring smooth operations. Whether you run a small office, a retail store or a large enterprise, selecting the right door access control system can significantly improve security, prevent unauthorised access and streamline employee entry management.

This comprehensive guide will help you choose, set up and manage an access control system using Ubiquiti's latest UniFi Access solutions, available from MS Dist. We will cover key considerations, installation steps and management best practices to ensure your business benefits from a secure and scalable access control system.

Step 1: Assess Your Business Security Needs

Before selecting an access control system, it's crucial to assess your specific security requirements. Consider the following:

• Number of doors to be secured and whether you need single-door or multi-door control

• Types of authentication methods you want to use, such as:

  • NFC key cards

  • PIN codes

  • Mobile app authentication

  • Biometric access (fingerprint or facial recognition)

• Integration with existing security systems, including:

  • CCTV surveillance cameras

  • Alarm systems

  • Employee management platforms

• Remote access and monitoring capabilities, allowing business owners and security personnel to manage access from anywhere

Step 2: Choose the Right Ubiquiti UniFi Access System

Ubiquiti’s UniFi Access system offers a cutting-edge solution for businesses looking to implement smart access control. Here are the top UniFi Access products to consider:

1. UniFi Access Hub (UA-Hub-Door)

   • Supports up to two access readers, making it ideal for both entry and exit control

   • Seamless integration with UniFi Protect cameras, enabling video surveillance alongside access control

   • PoE++ powered, reducing the need for additional wiring and simplifying installation

   • Multiple lock and auxiliary terminals, allowing integration with alarms, automatic doors and other security enhancements

2. UniFi Access Ultra (UA-Ultra)

   • Supports NFC cards and mobile authentication via the UniFi Identity app, eliminating the need for physical keys

   • IP55-rated for durability, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor use

   • PoE+ connectivity, ensuring a stable and secure power supply

   • Modern, high-security access control, ideal for enterprises that prioritise security and convenience

3. Enterprise Access Hub (EAH-8)

   • Ideal for businesses needing to control multiple doors within a single system

   • Centralised management of access control across various entry points

   • Supports high-volume access requirements for larger enterprises

Step 3: Install and Configure Your System

Once you've chosen your access control devices, follow these steps for a successful installation and configuration.

1. Hardware Setup

   • Mount the Access Hub and/or Reader near the door at an accessible height

   • Connect power using PoE (Power over Ethernet) to reduce wiring complexity

   • Wire the lock terminals to enable door access control

   • Install exit buttons or motion sensors, allowing for automatic unlocking when exiting

2. Software Configuration (UniFi Access Dashboard)

   • Log into your UniFi Network Controller to begin setup

   • Navigate to UniFi Access > Devices and add your new UniFi Access Hub or Reader

   • Configure access rules, including:

     • Time-based access restrictions

     • User permissions and role-based access

   • Enrol employees by assigning NFC key cards or configuring mobile authentication

   • Test the system to ensure that access is granted and restricted according to the configured rules

Step 4: Managing and Monitoring Access

Effective access control doesn’t end with installation—it requires ongoing management and monitoring.

Use the UniFi Access Dashboard to:

• Monitor real-time access logs and identify security breaches

• Adjust user permissions for employees, guests and temporary staff

• Integrate with UniFi Protect for video surveillance, enabling visual verification of access attempts

• Enable remote access, allowing you to grant or revoke access from anywhere via the UniFi mobile app

• Set up automated notifications for suspicious activity or unauthorised access attempts

Step 5: Maintenance and Troubleshooting

Regular maintenance ensures that your access control system continues to function optimally. Follow these best practices:

• Regularly update firmware through the UniFi Network Controller to benefit from security patches and new features

• Test access points monthly to confirm that locks, readers and software configurations are working correctly

If an issue arises:

• Check power and network connections to ensure proper functionality

• Reset the device via the UniFi Controller if software malfunctions occur

• Consult Ubiquiti’s support documentation for advanced troubleshooting and firmware updates (Ubiquiti Door Access Support)

By selecting and properly configuring a Ubiquiti UniFi Access Control System, businesses can significantly enhance security while improving operational efficiency. The right system not only controls access but also integrates seamlessly with CCTV, alarms and remote monitoring tools, providing a comprehensive security solution for any business.

To get started, explore MS Dist’s latest access control solutions at msdist.co.uk and take the first step in securing your business today.