Running a coworking space means balancing security, flexibility, and ease of use. Choosing the right access control provider is one of the biggest decisions you will make. The strongest systems are cloud-based, scalable, and integrate with the tools you already use. This ensures that member permissions update automatically, saving time and creating a smoother experience.
The global access control market is projected to grow from USD 19.05 billion in 2025 to USD 61.31 billion by 2035 (Future Market Insights). Cloud-based solutions and mobile credentials are the fastest-growing segments, reflecting the needs of modern spaces that want flexibility and 24/7 availability.
Importance of Access Control Matters for Coworking Spaces
Access control shapes safety, trust, improves daily routines, and supports the growth of coworking communities. By combining smart technology with integrated software, operators can deliver safety, convenience, and flexibility all at once. Here are the main reasons it matters.
Security and trust
Coworking thrives when members feel at ease. A reliable access control system protects their laptops, creative work, and client data, while also ensuring that only current members and approved guests enter. This creates a secure environment where people can focus fully on their work.
Better member experience
Convenience is central to how people experience your space. Smart credentials such as mobile apps, Bluetooth keys, or RFID cards make entry fast and simple. Members can arrive early, stay late, or move between areas without needing staff support. For operators, this means smoother days and fewer interruptions. See practical tips in security essentials for coworking.
Time and cost efficiency for operators
Automated systems connect directly with coworking software, so permissions adjust instantly. When a new booking is made, the system can grant temporary access; when a membership ends, access is automatically removed. This reduces administrative work, prevents errors, and gives teams more time to focus on their community.
Flexibility for new membership models
Modern coworking calls for flexible options. Access control systems support models like "20 hours per month" or "evenings only," automatically tracking entry and aligning with booking data. This makes it easier to experiment with creative plans while keeping operations reliable. Find details in coworking memberships and time passes.
Support for growth
As your community expands, cloud-based access systems scale with you. Whether you add new doors, floors, or even new locations, admins can manage everything from one platform. Different zones can have different rules, giving members the right access at the right time. To plan ahead, explore our coworking success checklist.
If you're already using Cobot, each link under "More details" will take you to the Help Center setup guide.
Kisi
Best for: Spaces aiming to scale into 24/7 operations.
- Strengths: Cloud-based, offline mode for reliability, multiple credential options (mobile unlocks, QR codes, RFID, Apple Wallet). Useful for monetizing meeting rooms and phone booths.
- Integration potential: Syncs with coworking management platforms to automatically grant or revoke access as memberships change.
- More details: Connecting Kisi
Sensorberg
Best for: Flexible, multi-zone coworking spaces or hybrid smart buildings.
- Strengths: Modular hardware that works for retrofits or new builds, IoT-ready features, and real-time monitoring via the Operator Control Board. Retrofit projects are becoming the dominant trend. In the UK, about 70 percent of installations in 2024 were retrofits (Mordor Intelligence).
- Integration potential: Designed to plug into coworking software, aligning access rights with bookings and member data.
- More details: Connecting Sensorberg
Salto KS
Best for: Established spaces seeking a trusted provider with a broad hardware ecosystem.
- Strengths: Mobile and card-based access, real-time updates, scalable for multi-location operators. Widely used across coworking spaces in Europe. Hardware accounts for more than 40 percent of global access control revenue (Grand View Research), making providers like Salto KS with a mature hardware ecosystem a reliable choice.
- Integration potential: Permissions and schedules can be managed automatically through coworking software, reducing manual admin.
- More details: Connecting Salto KS
Tapkey
Best for: Small to medium spaces that want mobile-first access.
- Strengths: Bluetooth-based mobile unlocks, easy installation, and flexible temporary access for visitors. Cloud-based access control overall is projected to grow faster than traditional systems, with the global market expected to reach USD 18.8 billion by 2033 (IMARC Group).
- Integration potential: Access rights can be automated, so only members with active plans or bookings are able to enter.
- More details: Connecting Tapkey
Luckey by Sofia Locks
Best for: Spaces needing a mix of mobile, card, and key access.
- Strengths: Cloud-based, supports remote management, and offers customizable access rules to fit unique layouts. Contactless solutions like mobile unlocks are now industry standards, as demand for touchless systems surged after COVID-19 (GMI Insights).
- Integration potential: Member access automatically adapts to their status, whether that is a day pass, part-time plan, or private office agreement.
- More details: Connecting Luckey
How to Choose the Right System
- Define priorities: Do you need 24/7 access, hybrid credentials, or IoT features?
- Pilot first: Test on one or two doors before rolling out to your entire space.
- Balance costs with growth: Some systems suit small hubs, others are better for multi-location operators.
- Look at integrations: The best option is one that syncs with your coworking software so you do not waste time updating access manually.
Cobot Integrations at a Glance
All five providers in this list already connect with Cobot. That means:
- Automatic permissions: When a member joins, books a room, or cancels, their door access updates right away.
- Flexible rules: Set who can enter which areas, and when, without extra admin steps.
- One system to manage: Keep memberships, billing, and access all in sync.
Final Thoughts
Access control is more than security. It is part of your members' everyday experience. The providers above give coworking operators reliable options, from lightweight smart locks to enterprise-ready systems. Paired with coworking management software, they ensure access rules always match memberships and bookings, giving operators more control and members a smoother experience.
FAQ on Access Control for Coworking
How do access control systems improve the coworking experience?
They remove the need for manual check-ins or key handovers. Members can enter with their phone or card, while admins save time since permissions update automatically.
Do I need a different system for meeting rooms and main entrances?
Not necessarily. Most providers let you define rules for each door, so one system can manage both. You just need to decide which areas require more restrictions.
What happens when a membership ends?
With integrated systems, access is revoked the moment the membership is canceled. This keeps your space secure without extra work for staff.
Can I still give temporary access to visitors or event guests?
Yes. All the providers listed here offer ways to share short-term credentials such as QR codes or mobile passes so visitors can enter only the areas and times you allow.
Which option works best for small versus large spaces?
Smaller hubs often choose simpler, mobile-first systems like Tapkey or Luckey. Larger operators with more doors or multiple locations usually benefit from the scalability of Kisi, Salto KS, or Sensorberg.