Why Access Control Cards Outperform Mobile Credentials

31 July 2024

In the evolving landscape of security and access control, two primary methods have come to the forefront: access control cards and mobile credentials. While both technologies offer unique benefits, access control cards remain the preferred choice for security-conscious building owners and organisations. In this post, we’ll explore the advantages of access control cards over mobile credentials and explain why they continue to be the ‘key’ choice for many.

Reliability and Consistency

Access control cards are renowned for their reliability. These cards, typically embedded with RFID or NFC technology, are designed specifically for access control system usage. They operate consistently across a wide range of environments and are not subject to issues that can affect mobile phones.

No Dependency on Battery Life: One of the significant limitations of mobile phone carried credentials is the dependency on the phone’s battery. If a phone runs out of battery, the user cannot access the credential, potentially leading to lockouts. Access control cards, on the other hand, do not rely on batteries and are always ready for use.

Consistent Performance: Access control cards are designed to function in various conditions, including extreme temperatures and humidity levels. Mobile phones, however, can be more susceptible to environmental factors, which may affect their performance and reliability.

Simplicity and User Experience

Access control cards offer a straightforward user experience. They are simple to use, requiring just a swipe or tap against a reader. This ease of use is particularly advantageous in high-traffic environments such as office buildings, educational institutions, and healthcare facilities.

No Technical Knowledge Required: Users of access control cards do not need any technical knowledge to operate them. In contrast, mobile phone credentials might require the user to navigate an App, ensure Bluetooth or NFC is enabled, and sometimes troubleshoot connectivity issues.

Ease of Replacement: If an access control card is lost or damaged, it can be quickly and inexpensively replaced. The process for replacing a mobile phone is significantly more complex and costly, involving not just the physical device but also the reconfiguration of credentials.

Security and Privacy

Security is paramount in access control, and access control cards provide a robust and secure solution.

Reduced Risk of Cyber Attacks: While mobile phones are increasingly becoming targets for cyber-attacks, access control cards are less susceptible. Mobile phones are vulnerable to malware, hacking, and other forms of cyber threats that can compromise stored credentials. Access control cards, being dedicated devices, do not have these vulnerabilities.

Controlled Access and Permissions: Administrators can easily control and manage permissions associated with access control cards. In contrast, mobile credentials may be less straightforward to manage, especially in environments with a high turnover of users or device.

Privacy Concerns: Mobile phone credentials can raise privacy concerns, as they might be linked to personal data and tracking capabilities. Access control cards do not carry personal information beyond the necessary access credentials, thus offering a higher degree of privacy. This problem is exacerbated when an individual uses their own mobile phone for work purposes.

Scalability and Management

Managing access control for large organisations can be complex, but access control cards offer several advantages over mobile credentials.

Centralised Management: Access control systems using cards allow for centralised management, making it easier to issue, revoke, or update access permissions across large numbers of users. Mobile phone systems may require additional infrastructure and integration with existing systems, complicating management.

Scalable Solutions: Access control cards are inherently scalable. Whether a small business or a multinational corporation, adding or removing users is straightforward. For mobile phone credentials, scalability can be hampered by the need for compatibility with different devices and operating systems.

Durability and Cost-Effectiveness

Access control cards are built to withstand the rigors of daily use, making them a durable and cost-effective solution.

Physical Durability: These cards are designed to be robust and can endure significant wear and tear. Mobile phones, while typically robust, are not designed specifically for frequent access control use and can suffer damage from such repeated interactions.

Lower Long-Term Costs: While the initial setup costs for both systems might be comparable, access control cards prove to be more cost-effective overall. The cards themselves are inexpensive to produce and replace, whereas mobile phones and associated apps can be costly to maintain and support.

Compatibility and Standardisation

Access control cards benefit from widespread standardisation and compatibility with existing infrastructure.

Industry Standards: Access control cards often adhere to industry standards such as ISO/IEC 14443, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of readers and systems. Mobile phone credentials can vary significantly in their implementation, leading to potential compatibility issues.

Integration with Existing Systems: Many organisations already have infrastructure in place for access control cards, making integration seamless. Implementing mobile phone credentials may require significant upgrades or changes to existing systems to install compatible Bluetooth readers.

Dependability in Critical Situations

In critical situations, such as emergency evacuations or security breaches, the dependability of access control systems is tried, and tested.

Reliable in Emergencies: Access control cards are dependable in emergencies. They do not rely on external factors including phone charge status, airplane mode enabled, or any other related matter could present a mobile phone from being presented to a suitable reader in an emergency such as a controlled building evacuation.

Quick and Easy Access: During emergencies, quick and straightforward access is crucial. Access control cards provide immediate access without the need for additional steps or potential technological failures associated with mobile devices.

EntroWatch Access Control Systems

One example of an access control system using access control cards is EntroWatch from Remsdaq. The system uses 2-door EntroStar and 8-door EntroNet door controllers and can be installed with Weigand compatible access control card readers. The most commonly installed card reader is the Remsdaq EntroPad. Available as a card reader or card reader/keypad, the range also features a contactless Request to Exit (RTE).

Conclusion

While mobile phone carried credentials offer modern conveniences and the allure of integrating with other smart technologies, access control cards continue to hold a significant edge in terms of reliability, security, simplicity, and cost-effectiveness. Their proven record, combined with their durability and ease of use, makes them the superior choice for many organisations looking to maintain robust and effective access control systems.

As technology continues to evolve, access control cards are also advancing, incorporating features like biometric authentication and enhanced encryption, further solidifying their place as a cornerstone of secure access management. For businesses and institutions prioritising reliability and security, access control cards remain the go-to solution.