Paxton Access Access Control Cards, Tags & Fobs

Today’s security industry technology standards create a common framework for achieving predictable performance. Systems are made more secure and easier to install, use and integrate with other devices. Standards are also intended to be living documents, open to continual refinements to benefit manufacturers, integrators and end users. An excellent example is the Open Supervised Data Protocol (OSDP), which is now the industry’s gold standard for physical access control installations. It was designed to offer a higher level of security with more flexible options than the aging defacto Weigand wiring standard. Updating OSDP-readers simultaneously One recent addition enables end users to push firmware and software updates to thousands of OSDP-enabled card readers simultaneouslyOSDP, first introduced in 2011 by the Security Industry Association (SIA), continues to evolve with significant manufacturer input. One recent addition enables end users to push firmware and/or software updates to a few or thousands of OSDP-enabled card readers simultaneously. Weigand technology requires updates to be made one at a time at each reader. Regularly changing reader encryption keys is an excellent way to enhance facility security. It’s easy using the OSDP file transfer capability and the latest DESFire EV2 credentials containing multiple encryption keys. You can transfer the next code on the card to all readers and the job is done. And there’s no need to create a new card for each user or reprogram each individual reader. AES-128 encryption ensures cybersecurity It’s time to migrate entirely away from Weigand technology. If greater security, convenience and reduced labour from the latest OSDP updates isn’t reason enough, here are a few more things to consider. The 40-year-old Weigand protocol provides no signal encryption, making it easy for hackers to capture the raw data transmitted between cards and readers. OSDP readers support AES-128 encryption while providing continuous monitoring of wires to guard against cybercriminals. Weigand reader installations require homerun cable pulls from the control panel to each peripheral device. OSDP readers can be daisy chained, providing additional savings on cabling and installation time. Weigand technology is simply too slow to work with today’s most versatile and secure card technologies. OSDP readers work with virtually all modern access control cards. The OSDP standard also works with biometric devices; Weigand does not. Meeting requirements of FICAM guidelines SIA is pushing to make the latest OSDP version a standard recognised by the ANSI, a move to enhance the global competitiveness of U.S. security businessesAlso, OSDP is becoming a must-have standard for organisations demanding the highest security levels. The standard meets requirements of the Federal Identity, Credential and Access Management (FICAM) guidelines that affect how the access control industry does business with the federal government. SIA is pushing to make the latest OSDP version a standard recognised by the American National Standard Institute (ANSI), a move to enhance the global competitiveness of U.S. security businesses. There’s still a large worldwide reader installation base that works solely with the Weigand protocol. Admittedly, changing them all at one time may be prohibitively expensive; however, standards should be viewed as a journey, not a destination. That’s why a measured migration is the right choice for many organisations. Begin by securing the perimeter. Replace only the outside-facing Weigand readers. As long as the walls are secured, the inside can remain a softer target until OSDP-compatible readers can be added indoors. The case for moving to OSDP as a standard is compelling. It offers our industry the opportunity to design access control software and products that provide what end users want most – greater security, flexibility and convenience.

It’s not surprising that people are nervous about the security of newer technologies, many of which are part of the Internet of Things (IoT). While they offer greater efficiency and connectivity, some people still hesitate. After all, there seems to be a constant stream of news stories about multinational corporations being breached or hackers taking control of smart home devices. Both of these scenarios can feel personal. No one likes the idea of their data falling into criminal hands. And we especially don’t like the thought that someone can, even virtually, come into our private spaces. The reality, though, is that, when you choose the right technology and undertake the proper procedures, IoT devices are incredibly secure. That said, one of the spaces where we see continued confusion is around access control systems (ACS) that are deployed over networks, particularly in relation to mobile access, smartcards, and electronic locks. These technologies are often perceived as being less secure and therefore more vulnerable to attacks than older ACS systems or devices. In the interest of clearing up any confusion, it is important to provide good, reliable information. With this in mind, there are some myths out there about the security of ACS that need to be debunked. The fact that these devices communicate with an ACS via Bluetooth or Near Field Communication (NFC) leads to one of the main myths we encounter Myth #1: Mobile credentials are not secure The first myth we have to look at exists around mobile credentials. Mobile credentials allow cardholders to access secured doors and areas with their mobile devices. The fact that these devices communicate with an ACS via Bluetooth or Near Field Communication (NFC) leads to one of the main myths we encounter about the security of credentialed information. There is a persistent belief that Bluetooth is not secure. In particular, people seem to be concerned that using mobile credentials makes your organisation more vulnerable to skimming attacks. While focusing on the medium of communication is an important consideration when an organisation deploys a mobile credentialing system, the concerns about Bluetooth miss the mark. Bluetooth and NFC are simply channels over which information is transmitted. Believing that Bluetooth is not secure would be the same as suggesting that the internet is not secure. In both cases, the security of your communication depends on the technology, protocols, and safeguards we all have in place. So, instead of wondering about Bluetooth or NFC, users should be focused on the security of the devices themselves. Before deploying mobile credentials, ask your vendor (1) how the credential is generated, stored, and secured on the device, (2) how the device communicates with the reader, and (3) how the reader securely accesses the credential information. When you deploy smartcard technology as part of your ACS, you should choose the latest generation, such as MiFARE DesFIRE EV1 or EV2 and HID iCLASS SEOS Myth #2: All smartcards are equally secure The question “how secure are my smartcards?” is a serious one. And the answer can depend on the generation of the cards themselves. For example, while older smartcards like MiFARE CLASSIC and HID iCLASS Classic offer better encryption than proxy cards and magstripe credentials, they have been compromised. Using these older technologies can make your organisation vulnerable. As a result, when you deploy smartcard technology as part of your ACS, you should choose the latest generation, such as MiFARE DesFIRE EV1 or EV2 and HID iCLASS SEOS. In this way, you will be protecting your system as well as your buildings or facilities. Some traditional readers and controllers can also pose a serious risk to your organisation if they use the Wiegand protocol, which offers no security. While you can upgrade to a more secure protocol like OSDP version 2, electronic locks are a very secure alternative worth considering. It is also important to understand that not all smartcard readers are compatible with all smartcard types. When they are not compatible, the built-in security designed to keep your system safe will not match up and you will essentially forego security as your smartcard-reader will not read the credentials at all. Instead, it will simply read the non-secure portion—the Card Serial Number (CSN) —of the smartcard that is accessible to everyone. While some manufacturers suggest that this is an advantage because their readers can work with any smartcard, the truth is that they are not reading from the secure part of the card, which can put your system and premises at risk. Using electronic locks can help protect facilities and networks through various security protocols, including encryption and authentication Myth #3: Electronic locks are more vulnerable These days, there are still many who believe that electronic locks, especially wireless locks, are more vulnerable to cybercriminal activity as compared to traditional readers and controllers. The concern here is that electronic locks can allow cybercriminals to both access your network to get data and intercept commands from the gateway or nodes over the air that would allow them access to your buildings or facilities. The reality is that using electronic locks can help protect facilities and networks through various security protocols, including encryption and authentication. Additionally, because many of these locks remain operational regardless of network status, they provide real-time door monitoring. This means that many electronic locks not only prevent unauthorised access but also keep operators informed about their status at all times, even if a network goes down. Outdated technology and old analogue systems are more vulnerable to attacks When it comes to deploying electronic locks, it is important to remember that, like any device on your network, they must have built-in security features that will allow you to keep your information, people, and facilities safe. Be prepared to unlock future benefits Ultimately, the information in your IP-based ACS is at no greater risk than any other information being transmitted over the network. We just have to be smart about how we connect, transmit, and store our data. In the end, maintaining the status quo and refusing to move away from old technology is not a viable option. Outdated technology and old analogue systems are more vulnerable to attacks. The reason it is so important to debunk myths around ACS and, at the same time, get people thinking about network security in the right way is that network-based systems can offer an ever-increasing number of benefits. When we deploy new technology using industry best practices and purchase devices from trusted vendors, we put ourselves and our networks in the best possible position to take full advantage of all that our increasingly connected world has to offer.

The basic principles of access control are well established: only authorised people should have access to secure areas, only at times that can be defined in advance, and only within a system that can identify exactly who went where, and when. Traditional mechanical lock-and-key systems cannot accomplish this — at least, not without loading a huge admin burden onto security staff. But modern, electronic wireless access control has the flexibility to achieve it. What criteria determine the right sort of access control for your organisation? It makes sense to assess what is desirable against what is affordable or available in the electronic access control market today. Asking yourself these 5 questions will lead to a wise investment in the right technology: Wireless locks like Aperio work seamlessly with existing systems from over 100 different access control providersDo you want to extend your existing system, or begin from scratch? You are not stuck with locks chosen by a previous management team. Security needs change. Wireless locks like Aperio, for example, work seamlessly with existing systems from over 100 different access control providers, integrated online or offline. You will save time and money extending your current system with a technology like Aperio and users can continue with their existing credentials. Going forward, it makes sense to choose locks built using open architecture, for added flexibility and to future-proof your next investment. Who are the site users and what kind of credentials suit their needs? In many industries, access to premises is required by permanent staff and short-term contractors: your access system needs to be flexible. Different systems offer credentials stored on cards and fobs, or on programmable, battery-powered keys. For example, the new Openow app for SMARTair wireless locking converts a user’s smartphone into a virtual key. You issue and revoke user keys using the intuitive software, an efficient, flexible mobile management solution. What is the structure of the site (or sites) you protect? You will need different locks for high-traffic and low-traffic doors, indoor and outdoor use. Almost everywhere, wireless locks are much easier to install and to maintain than traditional wired magnetic locks — and more cost-effective to run. Certified wireless security locks provide extra protection for sensitive areas needing stringent standards. If you have a mobile workforce or manage dispersed sites, consider the credential management practicalities. For example, programmable keys that are easy to update with a Bluetooth-enabled smartphone app — like ASSA ABLOY’s CLIQ Connect solution — will save your staff time and money. For outdoor access points, you will need gate locks or padlocks certified for operation in extreme conditions Do you want to secure more than just doors? Some wireless systems have locks for cabinets, machines, windows and even server racks (handy if you want an extra layer of control over co-located servers). There will be workflow advantages in monitoring these ‘non-doors’ — medicine stores, for example, or car parks or lifts — from the same admin interface as your doors. Site users will appreciate the convenience of carrying one credential for every access need. For outdoor access points, you will need gate locks or padlocks certified for operation in extreme conditions. For example, CLIQ mechatronic padlocks are currently deployed outdoors at utility sites in Scandinavia and supermarkets in East Africa. Do you need real-time capabilities? Choose an Online system and you can manage and amend access control doors at any time and from anywhere, using the admin software. You can monitor sensitive areas like medicine stores remotely and in real time, and can revoke access rights if a user credential gets lost. In an emergency, remote locking or unlocking of an entrance could be critical. Aperio wireless locks, for example, are integrated with online electronic access and real-time monitoring systems in hospitals, manufacturing plants and student halls of residence. With some systems, including SMARTair, you can combine ‘Update on Card’ and Online updating for different doors within the same installation. The CLIQ Connect app and programmable keys make real-time control over remote sites or teams possible. Wireless access control offers a compelling mix of audit compliance, easy installation, cost efficiency, and seamless integration. It makes life easier for security managers, and is deployed in premises as diverse as power plants and co-working spaces; museums and care homes; banks, schools and skyscrapers.

Paxton has launched a new web-based user interface for its market-leading access control system, Net2. Net2Online web-based interface Net2Online makes Net2 accessible from any device with an internet connection, giving users ultimate flexibility and ownership of the system – wherever they are. It comes as a free feature with Paxton’s Net2 Pro software. This ensures Net2 Pro is futureproofed, while making site access for users even easier. Five useful features will allow users to manage their building from any device, in any location – open doors, add and manage users, run roll call, monitor events and create reports. Key Net2Online features include: It’s quick and easy to get started - there is no need to install additional software if you have an existing Net2 Pro system. It has an improved layout – a smart, simple look and feel, with responsive interface and quick navigation. It now covers all major Windows operating systems and is compatible with Google Chrome, Safari, Microsoft edge and Mozilla Firefox. It’s included free of charge to new and existing Net2 Pro users. Net2 Pro software solution Net2 Pro is Paxton’s advanced version of its free Net2 Lite software Chris Wrench, Product Manager, said: “We’re continually futureproofing our systems and Net2Online gives our users even more choice to manage their sites. With Net2Online, installers can be confident they’re providing a solution that is smart and simple to use and will meet the needs of end users long into the future. We’ve also taken onboard feedback from customers who said they wanted a system that could be accessed by any device and from any location. Net2 Pro users now have the flexibility to manage their system in a more convenient way, at no extra cost.” Net2 Pro is Paxton’s advanced version of its free Net2 Lite software. It has all the capabilities of Net2 Lite software with advanced features.

Paxton has launched the Net2 Entry Audio monitor, bringing a simple, cost-effective option to the versatile Net2 Entry, intercom product range. The audio monitor fully supports all existing Net2 Entry functionality and completes the award-winning range. Key features of Audio monitor: A sleek, contemporary design with simple interface Flexible installation – can be wall-mounted or used with an adjustable desk stand Available with or without a handset Action buttons configurable for a range of needs Optional connection to a sounder or beacon to offer enhanced, accessible call notification Robust and vandal resistant Versatile and simple solution Gareth O’Hara, Chief Sales Officer said, “We are delighted to see the audio monitor complete our Net2 Entry range. It means Paxton installers can now use the range whatever the requirements – from high-end premium panels and monitors, to more cost-effective solutions where budgets can be restrictive. “Net2 Entry is known for its versatility and simplicity, so the audio monitor is a natural addition and the perfect product to complete our industry-leading range.” Net2 Entry is an intercom system that works standalone or alongside Paxton's Net2 access control, combining intercom with key features of Net2. It consists of three components that auto-detect on set up; external panel, interior monitor and door control unit.

Paxton, the global brand of electronic IP access control and video intercom solutions, has announced a new distribution relationship with ADI Global Distribution, making it even easier for dealers to buy its products. Paxton develops simple and integrated security solutions suitable for a wide range of sites and requirements, specialising in systems for the mid-market such as education, healthcare, retail, leisure, commercial and public sector. Their U.S. headquarters is based in Greenville, South Carolina, and they’ve recently doubled the size of their Customer Support team, adding 11 Regional Sales Managers and four dedicated Training Engineers to ensure dealers and distributors receive an increasingly high level of support. Distributor of security, AV products Dealers will be able to purchase the full range of Paxton’s flagship access control product, Net2 and its video intercom system, Net2 EntryADI is part of smart home technology company Resideo and is a global distributor of security, AV, and low-voltage products with more than 100 branch locations across North America. For more than 25 years, ADI has provided a superior product offering, and value-added services designed to help residential and commercial dealers of all sizes grow their business. With this new and exciting relationship, dealers will now be able to purchase the full range of Paxton’s flagship access control product, Net2 and its innovative video intercom system, Net2 Entry, from all ADI locations in the United States and Canada.  Managing sites remotely via smartphone Net2 is designed to be easy to specify and install, making life simpler for dealers and integrators. It moves beyond the basics of securing access to doors to provide features including system integration, building management, energy saving and security lockdown. Net2 system engineers and operators can also easily manage multiple sites remotely from a smartphone with the Paxton Connect Admin app. Net2 Entry is a true plug and play system consisting of just three components that auto-detect on set up; external panel, interior monitor, and door controller. The simple video intercom system can easily be added to an existing IP network. Offering strong customer experience I am excited that ADI Global Distribution is joining our list of distributors, because we’re committed to offering a strong customer experience for dealers"Jonathan Lach, Paxton’s Vice President of Sales said, “As Paxton continues to grow, it’s important that our dealers can easily buy our products across North America. I am excited that ADI Global Distribution is joining our list of distributors, because we’re committed to offering a strong customer experience for dealers. ADI, along with our current distribution partners, are well positioned to continue to serve our new and existing dealers.” “Our strong relationship with Paxton has been successful across EMEA and played a key role in positioning ADI as a leading distributor of security and low voltage products in this region,” said Marco Cardazzi, Vice President of Global Marketing at ADI Global. “We are excited about expanding this relationship, which will now help our dealers across North America deliver Paxton access control solutions to their customers.” All Paxton products have a five-year warranty, hassle free return policy, and are supported by their industry leading Customer Support team.