With increasing security threats and shrinking budgets, higher education campuses are faced with many challenges to keep their campuses safe. At this time, each school has its own set of unique requirements and security challenges, which require a flexible architecture system to satisfy demands and provide the foundation to meet future needs. Unfortunately, many higher education campuses are still using outdated and vulnerable security systems

Outdated Technology Vulnerabilities 

Legacy technologies, such as magnetic stripe (magstripe) and low-frequency proximity technology, are vulnerable to cloning (record and replay). Today inexpensive, off-the-shelf devices are widely available and can copy and clone identity cards with these vulnerable technologies. Both of these popular technologies afford virtually no security protection. The truth is that it’s frighteningly easy to steal identity data off of credentials with outdated technology. Convergint can help campuses eliminate these vulnerabilities by implementing the Open Supervised Device Protocol (OSPD) standard with HID Global. 

What is OSDP Technology? 

Open Supervised Device Protocol (OSDP) is an access control communications standard developed to improve interoperability among access control and security products. It is highly recommended for any access control installations that require higher security settings, such as college campuses. 

Benefits of OSPD 

  • Increased Security – With OSDP supported encryption, a more secure and reliable connection is created, protecting sensitive information and credentials. 

  • Bidirectional Communication – This means that not only can the readers “talk” directly to the centralized management platform, but the system can also communicate directly with the readers. This allows information to be collected, shared, and acted upon immediately.

  • Open Platform – This is an increasingly flexible solution for campuses with varied needs and allows for more devices to be added later on.

  • Reduced Costs – By using fewer wires, this allows for scalability to connect more field devices, reduces the wiring cost, and can lessen the overall project time. 

  • User-Friendly – By using audio and visual feedback such as colored lights, audible beeps, and the ability to display alerts on the reader, it provides greater ease of use for credential holders. 

Decades-old credential technology is no longer enough to meet the needs of today’s higher education campuses. OSDP protocols offer more flexibility, increased security, and operational efficiencies for higher education campuses now and in the future. 

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