Access Control

Future-proof mobile access control

Whether you're upgrading an existing system, or starting from scratch, Openpath can completely modernize the accessibility of any building in a snap.

Openpath’s access control hardware and enterprise cloud-based software give you peace of mind and protection to reopen your doors with confidence. It’s the fast, reliable, and hands-free option we recommend.

OSDP VS. WIEGAND

Why use OSDP instead of Wiegand?

When a security system is being replaced or retrofitted, OSDP should be considered instead of Wiegand, since Wiegand leaves many card readers vulnerable to attack. OSDP offers end users more options due to its interoperable nature. In addition, OSDP’s multi-drop capabilities means one length of 2-conductor cable can accommodate many readers, eliminating the need to run wire for each reader.

If you work in access control, no doubt you realize that Wiegand became a de facto industry standard after it first emerged in the early 1980s, but has not kept pace with today’s changing security demands.

Despite several attempts over the past two decades to update the standard, the erroneous assumption was that the “sun was setting on Wiegand technology,” and Wiegand would inevitably be replaced without the need to formally create a new standard.

Security systems are better served by an intentionally developed standard such as OSDP, which brings heightened security, interoperability and improved functionality. 

Wiegand lacks the security essential for today’s access control systems. In addition, Wiegand is unsupervised, offers limited distance options, and wires
must remain in good condition, free from induced electrical interference. The name Wiegand has also spawned much confusion, since it applies to three completely different aspects of card reader technology (see below). 

You may have heard about the ISC session with ethical hacker Babak Javadi of The Core Group and Cypress CTO Tony Diodato. Javadi demonstrates how quickly a Wiegand card reader connection can be hacked and data easily extracted, allowing a hacker  to access or deny admittance to a facility, or clone credentials.

“Wiegand is not just old, it’s incredibly insecure,” said Javadi, who audits business security systems.

A  new standard undoubtedly means changes, but the transition is not difficult – it’s simply different . Using readily available OSDP converters increases
efficiency and allows a cost-effective phased migration, since the converters eliminate the need to replace entire access control systems at once.

Proximity Card readers for Access Control

Openpath proximity card readers

Proximity card readers are an excellent choice for commercial spaces that need convenient, contactless access control. A proximity reader system allows you to secure office spaces, lobby turnstiles, and parking garages with modern access control solutions.

Before deciding on a system, ask yourself what is most important for your building security. If you want a combination of mobile access control credentials and proximity cards, ensure the proximity readers you choose can support flexible credential types. Openpath offers encrypted DESFire EV2 access cards, which can be used alongside convenient mobile credentials; plus Openpath is backwards compatible with many legacy access cards. This means that once you install Openpath Smart Readers, you won’t have to re-issue new proximity cards to your entire organization.

Need help? Just ask!