The Access Module centralizes several tools. Administrators and managers use this section to manage user accounts, approve or deny property‐related requests, issue credentials, organize users into groups, define access schedules, review audit logs, and generate QR codes for self‑service entry for unstaffed gates. Gate attendants may have read‑only access to some of these features, depending on your community’s configuration.
This tab displays a searchable list of all users associated with the community. Each entry shows the user’s full name, email address, and assigned role (e.g., Resident, Gate Attendant, Manager, Administrator). You can filter the list by role and use the Create User button to add new users. Administrators can edit or delete users as needed.
Residents may submit requests to update their property records—such as adding or removing occupants, vehicles, or gate codes. The Property Requests tab shows these requests in a queue and allows administrators to approve or deny them. You can filter the list to view approved or denied requests and process pending items one by one. Each decision triggers a notification to the resident.
Credentials are codes or physical tokens that allow entry through gates. In Watchtower, credentials are often associated with vehicles (barcodes on windshield tags) but can also be assigned to individuals through mobile credentials. The Credentials tab lists every credential issued in the community. Each item shows who it belongs to, the associated property, and the credential’s code. Use the search bar to locate a specific credential, and select Create Credential to issue a new one. You can also revoke (delete) credentials that are no longer needed—such as when residents move out or replace a vehicle.
Groups allow you to organize users or credentials into categories for more granular access control. Common groups include Residents, Staff, and Visitors, but you can create custom groups to suit your community’s needs. Each group can have its own set of credentials and schedule. In the Groups tab, you can search existing groups, create new groups, and edit or delete them. Group membership can later be referenced when assigning schedules.
Schedules define when a credential or group is permitted to access the community. For example, a 24×7 Schedule may grant unrestricted access, while a Weekdays 7 am–7 pm schedule might restrict contractors to working hours. The Schedules tab lists all defined schedules and includes tools to search, create, edit, or delete them. When creating or editing a schedule, specify the days of the week and time ranges during which access is allowed. You can then assign schedules to groups or individual credentials.
Every action performed within the Access Module is recorded in the Audit Logs. This includes creating or deleting users, approving property requests, issuing credentials, updating schedules, and more. Each log entry details who performed the action, what changed, and the date and time it occurred. You can search logs by keyword or filter them by a start and end date/time range. Reviewing audit logs regularly helps ensure accountability and can alert you to unusual activity.
The QR Access page generates a QR code that visitors can scan at the gate to initiate a self‑service entry process. When someone scans the code with their smartphone, they are directed to a web page where they can select their destination property. This feature is useful for communities without staffed gates or for after‑hours access. Options on this page allow you to print the QR code for display, adjust settings (such as the welcome message or property selection instructions), and test the visitor experience before deployment.
Assign roles thoughtfully: Limit administrative privileges to staff who need them. Gate attendants typically only need to view users and credentials, not delete or create them.
Keep credentials up to date: Revoke old or unused credentials promptly to prevent unauthorized access. Issue new credentials with clear labels so they can be tracked easily.
Use groups and schedules: Grouping users (e.g., contractors, club members) and applying schedules helps automate access control and reduces manual gate intervention.
Process property requests regularly: Approving or denying requests in a timely manner ensures residents’ information remains current and reduces confusion at the gate.
Review audit logs: Regularly check the audit logs to confirm actions were taken by authorized personnel and to identify any anomalies.
Test QR access before publishing: Before printing and posting the QR code at your gate, test it to ensure the user experience is clear and that property selection works as expected.