Mobile Credentials: Transforming Access Control

Delmi Training Institute
May 1
3 min read

In the world of access control, smartphones are rapidly taking the place of traditional key cards and fobs. Mobile credentials – digital keys stored on phones or wearable devices – let users unlock doors without a physical badge. This shift is happening across industries, and access control technicians are seeing how it simplifies deployments and improves security. Below, we explore how mobile credentials are changing the game in access control.

Key Benefits of Mobile Credentials

Convenience: Users no longer need to carry separate badges – their phone becomes the key. People tend to always have their smartphones on hand, reducing incidents of forgotten or lost credentials.
Security: Mobile credentials can leverage phone security (PINs or biometrics) for multi-factor authentication. Unlike a cloned or stolen card, a smartphone credential is encrypted and can be remotely wiped, making unauthorized access more difficult.
Hygiene: The touchless nature of phone-based access means fewer shared touchpoints on readers and keypads. Especially in a post-pandemic workplace, this promotes cleanliness and reduces cross-contamination.
Remote Management: Administrators can issue or revoke mobile keys through cloud platforms from anywhere. There’s no need to physically hand out cards – credentials can be sent instantly to a user's device, simplifying updates and saves time for technicians.

Smartphone and Wearable Integration

Modern access systems use Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) and Near Field Communication (NFC) to communicate with phones and even smartwatches. A user can tap their phone or simply walk up to a reader, which securely “handshakes” with the device to grant entry. This seamless integration with smartphones and wearables means the same device that holds your emails and apps now safely holds your building access too. For installers, it often just means deploying BLE/NFC-capable readers – the rest is handled by software and the user’s mobile device.

Industry Adoption and Trends

Major security providers and enterprises are quickly adopting mobile credential solutions. According to an industry report, 66% of organizations have already upgraded or plan to upgrade to mobile access readers, and 41% consider mobile access a top requirement for new systems. From established vendors like HID Global to newer cloud-based access startups, virtually every player in access control now offers a smartphone-based option. This widespread support means technicians can confidently recommend mobile credentials, knowing the trend is here to stay.

Challenges and Considerations

Implementing mobile credentials does come with a few considerations. One is phone battery dependence – if a user’s phone dies, they could be locked out. To address this, sites often have backup options (like a PIN code or a spare physical card) for emergencies. Another factor is compatibility: older access control hardware might need upgrades to support BLE or NFC. Technicians should ensure that readers and software are compatible with the range of smartphones users carry. Fortunately, most modern systems are designed with interoperability in mind, and the benefits generally outweigh these minor hurdles.

Conclusion

Mobile credentials are steadily becoming the new normal in access control. Their convenience, enhanced security, and ease of management are driving rapid adoption across all sectors. For access control technicians and installers, embracing mobile credential technology means easier deployments and future-ready systems. In short, the smartphone is now an access key – a change that is making secured entry more convenient, hygienic, and smart for everyone. With cutting-edge technologies reshaping access control, knowing where to start can be daunting. Whether you’re launching a new career or leveling up your skills, join Delmi Training Institute for a hands-on Access Control Technician course and get industry-ready today.