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Access control systems play a critical role in protecting buildings, assets, and people. From schools and hospitals to offices and industrial facilities, choosing the right access control technology can significantly impact both security and usability. This guide breaks down the most common types of access control used today, with a practical focus on Mifare readers, 26-bit H10301 readers, and 26-bit EM readers—three of the most widely deployed credential technologies in the security industry.
Whether you’re upgrading an existing system or planning a new installation, understanding how these access control types differ will help you make a more informed decision.
Free samples key fobs to test are available: Contact us to request a free sample fob
Access control is the method used to determine who is allowed to enter a space and when. Modern access control systems typically consist of:
The reader and credential technology used is one of the most important design choices, as it affects security level, compatibility, and future scalability.
The 26-bit H10301 format is one of the most common and widely supported access control formats in North America. It operates at 125 kHz proximity (RFID) and uses a facility code and card number to identify users.
Because of its widespread adoption, nearly every access control manufacturer supports 26-bit H10301 readers and credentials. However, it offers limited security, as the data can be easily cloned with inexpensive tools.
26-bit EM readers also operate at 125 kHz, but use the EM (EM4100/EM4102) format rather than HID’s H10301. These readers are common in international systems and budget-focused installations.
Like H10301, EM technology is not encrypted, which means it is more vulnerable to cloning. However, it remains popular due to its simplicity and low cost.
Mifare readers operate at 13.56 MHz and represent a significant step up in both capability and security compared to 125 kHz technologies. Mifare is a smart card platform that supports encrypted data storage and mutual authentication.
Mifare readers are ideal for organizations that want improved security, future expandability, and mobile credential support. Many modern access control systems use Mifare as the foundation for NFC and smartphone-based credentials.
| Technology | Frequency | Security Level | Best Use Case |
|---|---|---|---|
| 26-bit H10301 reader | 125 kHz | Low | Legacy compatibility |
| 26-bit EM reader | 125 kHz | Low | Budget installations |
| Mifare reader | 13.56 MHz | Medium to High | Modern secure systems |
When selecting an access control reader, consider:
Many facilities start with 125 kHz systems and gradually migrate to Mifare readers for enhanced security and flexibility.
AuthorizID specializes in access control cards, key fobs, and RFID credentials that are tested for real-world compatibility. We help customers match the correct credential to their reader—whether it’s a Mifare reader, 26-bit H10301 reader, or 26-bit EM reader.
To make sure everything works before you commit, we offer free samples for testing.
Free card samples to test are available: Contact us to request a free sample card
