Removing Mobile Integration Complexities to Facilitate Stronger Security

The complexity of integrating and deploying mobile solutions can seem daunting for some organizations, but with the right partners and customizable solutions that integrate best within the existing security infrastructure, the process can be seamless. Investing in upgraded security is worth it in the long term to avoid financial loss or reputational damages caused by ransomware attacks. In the short term, implementing more robust security strategies improves efficiency and the experience of the users having to work in these systems.

So, how should organizations upgrade their security technology to protect their network and vulnerable end points? The solution lies in digitizing identities through integrating mobile credentials for access control.

Creating a Secure Mobile Access Environment

A mobile-first environment enhances larger security strategies, bringing significant value to all stakeholders. A survey from The Industry Report: 2024 State of Security and Identity by HID found that two-thirds of organizations (64%) reported some level of mobile ID deployment, with that number expected to increase to 79% within the next five years. Additionally, 94% of industry partners surveyed stated that their customers will have deployed mobile IDs, indicating a clear trend toward increased mobile adoption.

Mobile credential deployment goes beyond mobile devices; there is reader selection, reader and credential compatibility, mobile app integration, and more. Due to all these moving parts, it’s imperative to find interoperable solutions that remove the complexity of the implementation. rf IDEAS collaborates with integration-ready partners to enable mobile credentials, creating a secure mobile access environment and supporting a mix of access control technologies.

The rollout of mobile authentication doesn't happen overnight. After assessing the current infrastructure, which may include onsite visits, rf IDEAS typically collaborates with customers to test mobile readers for specific applications like single sign-on. If the trial is successful, our mobile readers can be deployed across various applications, including secure print management, cashless vending, visitor management, and more. rf IDEAS involvement in the RiverSouth Austin building rollout of mobile credentials showcases how essential collaboration with various stakeholders is when delivering a 100% use case solution for end users.

In addition to testing our product in customer environments, we partner with leading software providers to roll out an end-to-end solution. Depending on the rf IDEAS WAVE ID® reader and associated provisioning software, our customers can find which mobile credential is compatible by using the rf IDEAS WAVE ID® Mobile Credential Offering Overview. For example, our WAVE ID® Mobile Mini reader and provisioning software (Soloinsight, Alert Enterprise, SwiftConnect & Sharry) work with HID employee badge and Student ID in Apple Wallet. Based on the existing physical access control system in place at your organization, this will likely affect which mobile credential is chosen to bring your end-to-end mobile solution to life.

Simplifying the Mobile Integration Process

Organizations are steadily upgrading legacy hardware in favor of multi-tech readers that can handle both plastic and mobile device-based credentials. At rf IDEAS, we support evolving customer identity ecosystems with seamless integration. WAVE ID® readers are built to adapt to the ever-changing dynamics of business needs, enabling a migration strategy for the roll-out of mobile credentials.

To ensure a smooth transition, rf IDEAS offers a comprehensive suite of solutions that integrate with existing access control and identity management systems. Our support for various digital credentials, including BLE and digital wallet credentials, allows customers to develop a customizable solution that fits their unique requirements. This approach makes upgrading or overhauling existing technology straightforward, aligning with strategic timelines and minimizing disruption.

Mobile Authentication Brings ROI for Security

Adoption of mobile access solutions is accelerating, driven by high-value factors like cost savings, efficient workflows, convenience and more. The convenience and efficiency provided by mobile devices, which consolidate multiple credentials into one, streamline daily operations by allowing employees to use their smartphones to access secure areas, log into systems, and authenticate transactions. Scalability is another crucial advantage, as cloud-connected mobile access solutions can easily expand to accommodate growing organizations, enabling quick addition of new users and seamless deployment of updates across the network. By reducing reliance on physical cards and keys, businesses can lower production, distribution, and replacement expenses.

Leveraging mobile wallets to access their mobile credentials, users can store multiple credentials, such as employee badges, student IDs, and access keys, in one place, simplifying credential management for both users and administrators. This centralized approach to user authentication and management enhances the user experience by allowing users to access secure areas and systems with a simple tap of their smartphone throughout their day – both professionally and personally. Additionally, mobile wallets integrate with a wide range of end points, including secure print, cashless vending, and visitor management, extending the functionality of mobile access solutions and providing a comprehensive and cohesive user experience. As technology evolves, mobile wallets can be updated with new features and capabilities, ensuring that organizations remain at the forefront of access control technology without the need for frequent hardware upgrades.

Ready to Move to Mobile?

For stronger security, better user experiences and simplified distribution and management of credentials, visit our Mobile Access page to discover how rf IDEAS can be part of your mobile solution