VOLO Dual Pathway Connectivity & Reader Compatibility

Why Dual Pathway Connectivity matters for cloud-based access control

“When we first brought VOLO into the market, we wanted to give people the widest options to get VOLO into their premises,” says Dean Kernot. And with that vision came one of VOLO’s standout features - dual pathway connectivity using both Ethernet and GSM.

At its core, this dual-path approach ensures reliable, uninterrupted communication between access control devices and the VOLO Cloud platform. Kernot explains:

“By default, the VOLO controller always assumes Ethernet to be its primary connection mode. On power-up, it looks for the Ethernet connection. If it doesn't see that, it automatically kicks into GSM.”

This flexibility is more than just convenience - it's about resilience. Unlike many competitors who rely solely on Ethernet or require third-party GSM SIM cards, VOLO includes GSM connectivity as part of its complete solution, fully integrated with its technical support infrastructure.

Eliminating the grey areas

Too often, third-party components introduce service gaps and support limitations, especially when it comes to network connectivity. But VOLO’s fully-managed dual pathway solution changes that:

“At VOLO, we offer the whole package,” says Kernot. “We’ve seen over the years that handing over third-party components often creates a gray area where things can drop through the cracks.”

Thanks to this approach, VOLO’s back-end systems can provide detailed diagnostics and connection logs that reveal:

• The current and historical connection status (Ethernet vs. GSM)
• GSM SIM provider in use
• Signal strength and nearest cell tower
• Event logs including switchovers between network types

All of this adds up to one critical outcome: Total Visibility. Installers and system administrators can see exactly how a device is performing, spot issues early, and ensure continuous operation - even across remote or difficult-to-access sites.

“You want to be sat in a warm office, looking at your laptop, not out in the wind and rain on-site just to find out what’s going on,” says Kernot.

Zero Downtime, Guaranteed

In the event of a network outage, VOLO’s dual pathway system sends automatic notifications to the user:

“If the Ethernet fails, you get an email to say the network has failed and that the system has switched to GSM. When Ethernet comes back, it hands back over and another email lets you know.”

These transition events are all logged and fully auditable, allowing clients to maintain the highest level of accountability and resilience.

A Platform that understands Access Reader diversity

While dual connectivity ensures communication reliability, VOLO’s reader-agnostic architecture addresses another major concern: device compatibility. In an industry flooded with access reader brands, technologies and credential formats, VOLO remains one of the most flexible and future-ready platforms available.

“VOLO is totally open protocol,” explains Kernot. “We worry about which reader brand - we care about the technology behind the reader.”

Whether you’re using:

• Bluetooth readers
• QR code readers
• Facial recognition and biometric devices
• ANPR systems
• Keypads or traditional RFID readers

...VOLO treats them all equally.

“Whether it’s high-end encrypted MIFARE readers or more basic formats, we look at the tech - whether it’s Wiegand, Clock & Data or custom output formats - and manage the data accordingly.”

This approach means you can maintain existing reader infrastructure during upgrades, reducing cost and complexity.

Ideal for refurbishments and mixed platform environments

Refurbishment projects are common, and rarely does a site use only one brand of reader. VOLO’s compatibility with multi-brand, multi-tech environments makes it an ideal solution for such scenarios.

“We’ve got clients all over the UK with four or five different reader brands across their estates,” says Kernot. “They can keep all their existing devices and just let VOLO unify them.”

Instead of forcing customers to rip and replace existing hardware, VOLO provides the backend power and consistency needed to bring fragmented systems under one cohesive platform.

“You might have facial recognition in one building, biometrics in another, QR over here, keypads over there - it doesn’t matter,” Kernot adds. “We bring that common technology together.”

Simplicity at the core: VOLO’s Intuitive Access Reader Setup

Part of VOLO’s commitment to user-friendly design is reflected in its streamlined setup process. Rather than offering bloated dropdowns with every reader brand under the sun, VOLO categorises devices by data output type:

“Our reader settings dropdown is based on technology: 26-bit Wiegand, 64-bit, custom formats, Clock & Data - you just choose the data format and hang the device off it.”

This not only keeps setup quick and straightforward, it future-proofs the system. As new reader technologies emerge, VOLO can adopt them without needing complex firmware updates or custom development.

VOLO Cloud: robust connectivity, flexible compatibility

Beyond dual pathways and reader compatibility, VOLO Cloud continues to prove why it’s one of the UK’s leading platforms in access control. As covered in our previous features, VOLO offers:

• Effortless database migration from on-premises systems
• Full control via cloud dashboards accessible from anywhere
• Highly secure, encrypted communications
• Scalability across multi-site and multi-tenant environments
• Real-time monitoring and alerts for ultimate security awareness

Whether you're running a housing association, corporate office, or public sector facility, VOLO enables seamless upgrades and total control - without compromise.

Backed by industry expertise: CIE's exemplary customer support

Finally, no discussion would be complete without highlighting the expert support available through CIE-Group. As VOLO’s exclusive UK supply partner, CIE provides:

• Custom access control system design
• Cloud access control consultation and training
• Hands-on migration support to transition old systems to VOLO
• Ongoing technical support for installers and integrators

CIE’s deep product knowledge and real-world experience mean your move to cloud access control is not only easy - it’s backed by people who understand your challenges and know how to solve them.

“We’re not just offering a product—we’re offering a complete solution with support every step of the way,” says Kernot.

In Summary

With VOLO, you’re not just investing in a cloud access control system, you’re embracing a platform designed for real-world conditions:

• Dual pathway connectivity ensures zero downtime
• Reader-agnostic technology enables full device compatibility
• Seamless integration with existing infrastructure saves time and money
• And expert support from CIE-Group ensures you’re never alone on the journey

If you’re planning a move to cloud access control, there’s never been a better time to explore VOLO.

Find out more...

• VOLO Unveils 4G Access Controller with 2G Safety Net

• VOLO Cloud Access introduces Enhanced Fire Alarm Integration

• Where to buy VOLO cloud access control in the UK

• Database Migration for VOLO Cloud Access Control

• VOLO Frequently Asked Questions

• How to design an Access Control System

Available to order now from CIE

VOLO Cloud Access Control is available through Value-Added Distributor CIE-Group. CIE provides expert advice and support for security professionals looking to implement VOLO’s cutting-edge access control solutions.

For full details or to arrange a product demonstration, please contact the CIE sales team on T. 0115 9770075 or email [email protected]

Related Products: