For system mangers, card-based credentials offer a solution that is easier to manage than keys, and harder to duplicate than PIN codes. Access privileges can be easily assigned and revoked, and access privileges of a single user can be altered without impacting the entire user population. With card-based access, the threat of unauthorized keys or shared PIN codes is eliminated.

 

In facilities that require permission to multiple systems, card-based credentials offer the potential to consolidate technologies across multiple systems, enabling users to carry one credential to achieve multiple activities. 

 

But remember, not all card technologies are the same. In fact, some card credentials are a great deal more secure than others. Your trained Schlage representative will work with you to help you understand your options.

 

Schlage Magnetic Stripe Cards & Readers
With magnetic stripe cards, users physically swipe their card through a reader (much like a credit card). Magnetic stripe technology has been around for decades, and provides an affordable option for low security environments, and convenience based applications. 

Proximity Cards/Fobs & Readers
Proximity cards are the most basic form of “contactless cards.” As the name implies, contactless cards don’t need to physically touch a reader. Instead, users simply wave them in front of a reader – reducing wear on the reader and card, and extending the life of the system.

 

This makes them an ideal choice for facilities with a high volume of traffic on specific openings, or a large number of users. 

 

Proximity cards are encoded with a unique number that cannot be updated or changed. This ensures that the data on the card remains intact and unaltered. 

Schlage Smart Cards & Readers
Smart cards are the most advanced “contactless“ cards on the market today. As far as users are concerned, they function just like proximity cards. But there’s a key difference: smart cards have the ability to store information. This makes them significantly more useful than magnetic stripe or prox cards.

 

Smart cards can be used in diverse applications such as access control, cashless vending, meal programs, and transit because of the ability to read data from, and write data to the card. Smart cards also employ advanced security features that make them an ideal candidate for both high security applications, and those in which important data or financial information will be transmitted. 

Check out our How Smart is Your Smart Card training course!

 

If you’re interested in learning more about card credentials, we’d be happy to help. Contact us today.