Pyronix 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.

The Enforcer on Tour is back and this time with its flexible perimeter protection that speaks for itself, delivering voice push notifications and Full-HD video verification. The company’s dedicated Account Managers will be hosting open days at various distributors across the UK throughout May and June, showcasing the full capabilities of the Enforcer system and how Pyronix perimeter protection can deliver a plethora of business growth opportunities. “Following on from last year’s tour, we’re really excited to bring the Enforcer on Tour back in 2019 across the UK, with all new offerings and features, including Full-HD video verification,” Laurence Kenny, Pyronix Marketing Manager, said. Voice notifications for intruder warning By adding the XDL12TT-WE, the system can now be configured to deliver voice push notifications for early warning of intrusionWith Account Managers on-hand at selected distributor outlets across the UK, professional security installers have the opportunity to see the multi-award-winning ‘installer’s choice’ Enforcer system for themselves and how their XDL12TT-WE wireless outdoor detector, sensors, contacts, Wi-Fi cameras and ProControl+ app can diversify their security offerings and add upselling opportunities. “We can’t wait to get back on the road and highlight the opportunities that our solutions now offer to businesses,” Laurence said. He continues: “By adding the XDL12TT-WE, the system can now be configured to deliver voice push notifications for early warning of intrusion, while adding and linking our cameras also provides Full-HD video verification. This provides professional installers with an added layer of security protection; detecting intruders before they can even have the opportunity to break in, while easily upselling to video monitoring and verification. Full-HD visualisation of the event The users are provided with an immediate voice push notification to alert them, with Full-HD visualisation of the event"“Now, installers leave nothing to the imagination of the user, by bridging the gap between assuming and knowing; so whether it’s their children coming home from school, an elderly relative activating a medical alert, or an intruder, they are provided with an immediate voice push notification to alert them, with Full-HD visualisation of the event, so that they can see exactly what’s happening. “By delivering this using the PyronixCloud and ProControl+ infrastructure, there is also a wealth of customisation, branding, recurring revenue and increased customer retention benefits to enjoy, with a flexible and easy to fit wireless system.” By registering and attending one of the tour dates, professional installers can also claim a FREE Pyronix XDL12TT-WE outdoor detector, which has multi-configuration options and is easy to setup. With 1,000 of the detectors available in the Enforcer on Tour national giveaway, demand will be high, so installers should book early to avoid disappointment.

With its commitment to continuous improvement, Pyronix is delighted to announce the release of its new and improved ProControl+ app version 2.0. Listening to customer feedback, the latest version sports a new and improved Graphical User Interface (GUI), as well as boosted User Experience (UX), with added features and functions to deliver even more value to installers and end users alike. Voice push notifications “We’re really excited by these latest developments to ProControl+,” Laurence Kenny, Pyronix Marketing Manager, said. ProControl+ version 2.0 extends the capabilities of professional security and video monitoring, with push and voice push notifications now selectable via the PyronixCloud infrastructure. This allows specific voice push notifications to be delivered via ProControl+ This advances the setup of the system for the installer and user, tailoring the function to suit the needs and desires required. This capability is extended further with the installer also able to program switcher inputs into the control panel. This allows specific voice push notifications to be delivered via ProControl+. Video monitoring capabilities So, for example, should an outdoor XD detector be programmed as a switcher zone, when an intruder is detected, a ‘Perimeter Breached’ voice notification will be delivered via the app to alert the user of the activity. If the installer pairs this with an outdoor Mini Dome camera, the user would also be able to switch to video to visually verify what’s happening and take appropriate action. As part of these developments, face ID and fingerprint capabilities have also been added into the login process of ProControl+; adding an extra layer of security to video monitoring. Users can now access video monitoring capabilities with their face or fingerprint instead. One complete solution “We’re proactively developing ProControl+ to deliver more and more value within our app and Cloud solutions,” Laurence said. He continues: “By using ProControl+, the capability, convenience and scope of security is becoming increasingly more interactive, with intrusion, video, voice and control seamlessly delivered in one complete solution.” With Pyronix and ProControl+ installers are keeping their users informed" “We recognised with our developments within ProControl+ that voice push notifications deliver a unique selling point, so we have made these selectable and able to combine with our portfolio of products to offer a complete and custom system every time.” Perimeter breached notification “So, whether it is an outdoor XD detector generating a ‘Perimeter Breached’ notification before a break-in can occur, a smoke detector, a CO detector, or simply their children coming home from school, users can pick which notifications they receive, how they receive them and can switch to video to verify the activity.” “With Pyronix and ProControl+ installers are keeping their users informed and in control with a system that differentiates their business from any other on the intruder market.” Compatible with all Hikvision video products and with more developments in the pipeline, ProControl+ continues to deliver.

New for the UK and Republic of Ireland security markets, the Pyronix Enforcer Perimeter Protection Kit ensures that intruders are detected before they gain access to residential or small commercial properties. Two-way wireless technology Featuring secure Enforcer two-way wireless technology and a combination of shock sensors and magnetic contacts, the Enforcer Perimeter Protection Kit provides an effective, alternative solution to internal, volumetric motion detection. Our new Enforcer Perimeter Protection Kit meets the growing demand for security systems that raise the alarm before property intrusion occurs" Laurence Kenny, Marketing Manager at Pyronix comments: “Pyronix is committed to providing installers and system integrators with a great range of solutions and options to promote to end-users and our new Enforcer Perimeter Protection Kit meets the growing demand for security systems that raise the alarm before property intrusion occurs.” The new Enforcer Perimeter Protection Kit comprises: 1x Enforcer all-in-one two-way wireless control panel with DIGI-WIFI communicator 4x Combined wireless shock sensor and magnetic contact (MC1/SHOCK-WE) 1x Wireless mini magnetic contact (MC1MINI-WE) 1x Wireless Deltabell module (DELTA/MOD-WE) Pyronix Enforcer Perimeter Protection Kit The Perimeter Protection Kit provides greater opportunity for early detection and prevention of break-ins and has additional benefits: End-user convenience and protection - the perimeter protection kit enables the end-user to move around their property whilst continuously protecting it. Installer convenience – an all-in-one, great value kit that’s ready for installation; easy to handle and quick to install. Wireless solution - possesses advantages over wired solutions; faster and easier to fit with minimal disruption. Easy ordering – all that the security professional needs in one pack; no individual product ordering to construct the equivalent system. Building on the award-winning Enforcer’s status as “the installer’s choice” and featuring robust design and materials, the new Enforcer all-in-one Perimeter Protection Kit provides security professionals and end users with a convenient and highly effective first layer of defence.