NFC & RFID Access Control Systems: Key Features & Benefits Explained

Imagine having your office door open instantly as you approach it, without having to struggle with keys or swipe a card. This smooth experience is made possible by NFC and RFID technologies, which are altering how we access secure areas.

RFID access control system transfers data wirelessly via radio waves between a reader and a tag carried by a person or tied to an object. NFC access control is a form of RFID that enables two devices to exchange data over short ranges using electromagnetic fields.

The demand for advanced access control systems is increasing rapidly. The industry grew by 23% between 2019 and 2024, which reflects the increased emphasis on security and technological advancements in businesses.

In this guide, we’ll discuss how NFC and RFID access control systems work and learn about their benefits, differences, and other key things you should know.

What is NFC Technology?

NFC (near-field communication) technology is a wireless technology that uses electromagnetic fields to transport data so that two devices can communicate with one another. Because this transaction happens within a very short distance, both devices must have NFC chips. 

Devices that support NFC must be physically touching or within some centimeters of each other before data transfer can occur. With NFC, the chances of human error are slim because the recipient device reads your data immediately after you send it. After NFC technology becomes universal, users may still have to move around with a backup payment method; there's a limit to how much you can do with a device whose battery is drained.

Types of NFC Technology

NFC technology differs! Below is a breakdown of the various types and how they operate in everyday life.

• Active NFC Technology

Devices with active NFC technology can send and receive data. They can communicate with each other alongside other passive devices. Examples of devices that operate active near-field communication technology are smartphones, touch payment terminals, and card readers in public transport.

• Passive NFC Technology

This NFC technology comprises tags and other small transmitters that can send data to other NFC devices without requiring their own power source. Devices with this technology cannot connect to other passive components and do not process any data sent from other sources. They are usually informal interactive signs on advertisements or walls.

Active vs. Passive NFC

NFC technology works in active and passive forms. 

• Active devices like smartphones can exchange information, as they have their power source to begin communication. 

• Passive NFC devices, such as tags or access cards lack a built-in power source. Instead, they rely on the electromagnetic field generated by the active NFC device to function. 

While active NFC allows for more flexible interactions, passive NFC is commonly used in access control due to its ease of use and affordability.

NFC Door Entry Systems

NFC door entry security systems allow for more advanced, secure access control solutions compared to their RFID counterparts. It eliminates the need for a physical key card since a smartphone is often used as the authentication “token” in most applications.

Furthermore, NFC access control technology allows data exchange between two NFC-enabled devices when they are brought close to each other. Below is a breakdown of how NFC technology is used across different access control devices:

• NFC Tags/Cards

NFC tags/cards have an antenna and a microchip embedded within them. You will often find them in wearable devices, smartphones, or access cards.

• NFC Readers

They are incorporated into devices such as tablets, smartphones, or dedicated NFC readers.

• NFC Smart Tags

These are similar to smartphones, which can send and receive information. Compared to NFID, NFC only operates in very close proximity at a maximum of 1.57 inches (4 cm). 

You can use near-field communication technology in various applications, particularly in cloud access control, system security, physical access control, and property security.

How Does The NFC Door Entry System Work?

The NFC door entry access control system works by deploying a reader and a phone or card. Now the card will have the tag data, which contains the credential information that enables a connected access panel to recognize the user within its system and approve or deny access to the cardholder.

NFC door readers are used as access control systems that authorize individuals to enter a building or certain areas within a facility. When you hold an NFC card or tag near an NFC reader, it reads the data and confirms your identity within the connected software. 

However, this communication is not restricted to only authentication. Additionally, NFC access control can capture detailed access information, such as:

• Exact access time
• Precise access point used
• Duration access was granted

In near-field communication access control systems, the smart card information travels over the internet to a centralized area within your system to grant entry to the protected areas.

Advantages of NFC Door Entry Systems

Are you considering switching to NFC for door access? Here’s why it’s a smart, secure, and stress-free choice.

• Physical Key Cards Are Not Required

NFC eliminates the need for separate key cards because the technology allows smartphones to be used as key cards. This minimizes the administrative task for IT teams handling access control.

• Lowers The Risk of Key Theft and Intrusion

Thieves will no longer gain unauthorized access because NFC access control technology requires a user’s smartphone. Plus, they must be able to access/unlock the smartphone. This adds an additional degree of security to prevent intrusion.

• Maintenance Requires Fewer Resources

You can easily integrate NFC into cloud-based access control systems on an ad hoc and scale basis. There are fewer security vulnerabilities, adding and removing users is simple, and general administration requires just a few resources.

• Reduced Hardware Costs

NFC access control can be used across different devices, including smartphones. This enables users to use their devices for access, lowering hardware costs.

• Better Hygiene 

NFC’s contactless access delivers a hygienic way to enter facilities and buildings. This touch-free solution is an essential aspect of health and safety protocols.

Disadvantages of NFC Door Entry Systems

Although they are considered superior to their RFID counterparts, NFC access control systems have their drawbacks.

• Limited Availability 

Particularly in the United States NFC-enabled devices are not as available as RFID control systems. Therefore, finding and employing an NFC security control system is quite difficult.

• Short Range

You can expect some inefficiencies when deployed at scale because NFC devices are restricted to a few inches while RFID readers range a few feet. In addition, NFC's short range helps with security but users must be very close to the reader. This might be inconvenient in some situations.

• Reliance on Smart Devices

Users must have NFC-enabled smart devices for the system to function efficiently. And all employees or visitors may not have such devices, or they may not be universally available.

• Initial Setup Expenses

Initial setup and integration with existing systems can be complex and costly. However, this solution saves money in the long run. 

• Hardware Can Be Misplaced

NFC tags or phones can be misplaced which puts access at risk unless it is addressed immediately.

Key Features to Look for in an NFC Door Entry System

All NFC systems are not created equal—these are the must-have features to guarantee top-notch security and convenience.

• Remote or Scheduled Unlock Capabilities

You don't want it to feel like a burden to always be physically present to grant entry especially when it is not convenient for you. So, opt for NFC systems with remote or scheduled unlock capabilities. 

This makes it easy for you to approve access for a large number of people from anywhere you are.

• Electronic Lock

A system with an electronic lock that activates or deactivates it to enable or deny access. This lock is linked directly to the control panel and can be installed on doors, gates, or any physical entry barrier.

• Control Panel

This is the brain of the NFC access control system. The control panel processes the verification information obtained from the reader and commands the electronic lock accordingly. You can configure it remotely since it is integral for managing permissions.

• Tag

NFC tags store the digital credentials needed to gain entry. When you move close to the reader, the tag sends these credentials for confirmation. Moreover, these tags can be embedded in stickers, fobs, or cards.

• Reader

This is the interface between the control panel and the tag. Installed beside access points, it decodes the information from NFC devices and transfers it to the control panel for verification. NFC readers can only identify data from compatible NFC devices guaranteeing specific and safe communication.

What is an RFID Door Access System?

RFID stands for Radio Frequency Identification. The RFID door access control system is a technology that uses electromagnetic waves to record and transmit data between readers and key cards. 

This system has RFID tags or cards and RFID readers. The tag can be detected by a reader up to a few feet.

RFID Door Access Systems

RFID door access control systems are known for their durability and reliability. In commercial systems, staff members are given unique access cards for their office, or RFID-enabled tags are often attached to their ID cards. 

How Does The RFID Door Access System Work?

This method is easier for a company to apply an access control solution that supports unique credentials. Usually, the RFID applications for personnel identification work at a 140 kHz frequency for badge detection.

The RFID tags or cards store the cardholder’s, reader’s, or object’s information electronically. Similarly, door readers have a small antenna that transmits its radio waves to identify any RFID tag or card within its range.

But this range differs for each reader according to the frequency of the radio waves it emits—typically from 10 cm (~4") to around 1 m (~1’). The RFID reader decodes the information from the RFID tags and transmits the signal to its host software.

This host software either approves or revokes access to the user.

Advantages of RFID Door Access Systems

RFID is changing how we control door access—let’s look at how it makes security swift and efficient.

• Customized User Permission

When managing security access for large amounts of people, you'll require the ability to assign permissions individually. With RFID cards, you can program and reprogram these as your security needs change. 

If an employee resigns, you can easily deactivate their card or reprogram it for a new staff member. It also supports changes for locations that employees can enter as their permissions change or expand.

• Water and Weatherproof

Suppose the door is a conductor of electricity, the RFID door access control system will still function during water or weather conditions. Generally, the RFID locks are waterproof, as no card slot is exposed.

• Durable

RFID chips are durable and can survive deterioration, magnetic strip technology, or malfunctioning barcodes without being affected. So, employees won't have to spend so much resources replacing and reprogramming destroyed or faulty cards.

• Versatility

Because of the technology that powers them, the RFID access control system supports more flexible door access control compared to conventional door lock systems. 

For instance, companies can regulate entry to various offices, spaces, and facilities within their premises by configuring various cards or fobs to unlock different locks.

Disadvantages of RFID Door Access Systems

No system is perfect! Below are the drawbacks of RFID door access systems and what to watch out for.

• Malfunction During Outages

Generally, RFID security systems survive during unfavorable weather and water conditions. However, if you don't have an available electricity backup, power outages that deactivate the door system can pose a challenge.

• Low-frequency RFID Vulnerabilities

RFID access control systems function at varying frequencies. Low-frequency RFID cards generate signals that can be hacked. And although RFID readers generally have a limited range, hackers can use signal boosters to bypass this. 

• Key Card Copying

Someone can easily clone RFID cards with the ability to pick up and read signal broadcasts from card to reader. They can use this data to create a new card with a transponder.

• Prone to EMI

Electromagnetic interference can come from other RFID cards or closeby magnetized devices. This EMI can be used to jam readers and cards, which stops the cards from transporting information successfully. This drains resources and doubles as a security risk.

Security Features to Look for in an RFID Door Access System

Want an RFID system that wades off intruders? These critical security features make all the difference.

• Biometric Verification 

An RFID door access control system that supports biometric verification should be prioritized for the highest level of privacy and security security.

• Robust Information Security

Suppose you're dealing with applications that need absolute data protection. Consider RFID access control solutions where communication between contactless smart card-based devices and readers can be encrypted to avoid eavesdropping. Additionally, you can use digital signatures and hashes to guarantee data integrity, and a random number generator to allow dynamic cryptographic keys that prevent replay attacks.

• Information Privacy Support

Compared to other technologies, smart card-based RFID systems enable you to execute a personal firewall for individuals. You can configure these firewalls to only release needed data. Its ability to enable verified and authorized information access along with solid contactless devices and data security makes contactless smart cards top-notch choices for protecting individual privacy and information.

• Solid Contactless Device Security

It's hard to forge or duplicate contactless smart card technology, as it has built-in tamper-resistance. Smart card chips have various hardware and software abilities that identify and respond to tampering attempts, countering potential attacks. So, you'll want to opt for a system with this capability.

FAQs

What is the NFC mode on my phone?

The NFC mode on your phone represents near-field communication mode. It is a wireless connection that enables your phone to send and receive data with other NFC-enabled devices by bringing them near each other. This is often used for data sharing, contactless payments, and connecting to devices like smart tags or speakers simply by tapping your phone against them.

Why would someone use NFC?

People mostly use NFC because of its convenience and speed in performing contactless tasks like access control, data sharing, making payments, etc. All these don't require a complex setup or long-distance connection, and they simplify everyday tasks and interactions.

Does NFC use Bluetooth?

No, NFC does not use Bluetooth. Rather, it simplifies Bluetooth pairing by letting devices connect fast just by tapping them together. So, there wouldn't be any need for manual Bluetooth searching and pairing processes.

How do NFC readers work?

NFC readers work by creating a magnetic field that activates an NFC tag that is close-by (a smartphone or a contactless payment card). This tag then transfers data to the reader via electromagnetic induction enabling a quick and secure exchange of data within a very short range. Typically, the reader triggers the tag to send its stored information when brought close enough without requiring a separate power source on the tag.

Does RFID work with NFC?

Yes, RFID works with NFC, since NFC is an aspect of RFID technology that operates within the high-frequency band that the majority of modern NFC devices can read. This means an NFC-enabled device can read RFID tags that operate on the same high-frequency band, but not all RFID tag types with various frequencies.

Final Takeaway

NFC access control systems use wireless technology to facilitate easy and secure door access. Even though it has similar characteristics to RFID, its emphasis on close-range, high-frequency data transmission improves security and user experience. 

Regardless of whether they choose passive or active NFC security solutions, companies will enjoy the security and versatility that NFC provides.