Newly Updated Access Control Standard Improves Interoperability and Security; Expands Support for Smart Card Applications

  • Dec 16, 2020

The Security Industry Association (SIA) has released version 2.2 of SIA Open Supervised Device Protocol (OSDP), an access control communications standard developed by SIA to improve interoperability among access control and security products.

SIA OSDP version 2.2 features the messages and formatting that were included in the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) 60839-11-5 standard released earlier in 2020 and addresses some of the minor errata within that document. SIA OSDP version 2.2 replaces version 2.1.7 of the specification, released in 2015. Chief among the updates are an enhanced method for file transfer, which allows for the transfer of large data sets for firmware updates or graphics from an access control unit to a reader, clearer instructions for the implementation of SecureChannel to facilitate encrypted communications and updated messages for handling smartcard applications within the protocol.

SIA OSDP version 2.2 is a bridge that allows for easier updates of the OSDP specification and the subsequent publishing of these enhancements as an international standard. SIA OSDP allows devices, such as card readers, control panels or other security management systems to work together, providing the security industry with a solution that moves far beyond the widely-used Wiegand standard in terms of security and functionality. A two-way channel and encryption pave the way for advanced security applications such as the handling of smart cards, biometrics and government applications that require Public Key Infrastructure or Federal Identity, Credential and Access Management requirements.

“SIA OSDP version 2.2 is a culmination of all of the work done over the past five years to prepare the protocol for international standardization and fixes the majority of common implementation challenges faced by implementers of version 2.1.7,” said Steve Rogers, co-chair of the SIA OSDP Working Group and president at IQ Devices.

Already in use by many leading manufacturers, the SIA OSDP standard is recommended for access control installations that require advanced security or will be used in government and other higher-security settings. In April 2020, SIA introduced SIA OSDP Verified, a comprehensive testing program that validates a device’s conformance to the SIA OSDP standard and related performance protocols.

Maintained and developed by the SIA OSDP Working Group since 2011, the SIA OSDP standard was approved by the IEC technical committee on alarm and electronic security systems as an international standard in June 2020.

SIA OSDP v2.2 aims to duplicate the contents and terminology that were required in the IEC standardization process, harmonizing the SIA published protocol series and the IEC standard. Future versions of OSDP will continue to follow the IEC formatting conventions, enabling the always-evolving work of the SIA SODP Working Group to be more easily adopted through the IEC standards process.

Featured

  • TSA Introduces New $45 Fee Option for Travelers Without REAL ID Starting February 1

    The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) announced today that it will refer all passengers who do not present an acceptable form of ID and still want to fly an option to pay a $45 fee to use a modernized alternative identity verification system, TSA Confirm.ID, to establish identity at security checkpoints beginning on February 1, 2026. Read Now

  • The Evolution of IP Camera Intelligence

    As the 30th anniversary of the IP camera approaches in 2026, it is worth reflecting on how far we have come. The first network camera, launched in 1996, delivered one frame every 17 seconds—not impressive by today’s standards, but groundbreaking at the time. It did something that no analog system could: transmit video over a standard IP network. Read Now

  • From Surveillance to Intelligence

    Years ago, it would have been significantly more expensive to run an analytic like that — requiring a custom-built solution with burdensome infrastructure demands — but modern edge devices have made it accessible to everyone. It also saves time, which is a critical factor if a missing child is involved. Video compression technology has played a critical role as well. Over the years, significant advancements have been made in video coding standards — including H.263, MPEG formats, and H.264—alongside compression optimization technologies developed by IP video manufacturers to improve efficiency without sacrificing quality. The open-source AV1 codec developed by the Alliance for Open Media—a consortium including Google, Netflix, Microsoft, Amazon and others — is already the preferred decoder for cloud-based applications, and is quickly becoming the standard for video compression of all types. Read Now

  • Cost: Reactive vs. Proactive Security

    Security breaches often happen despite the availability of tools to prevent them. To combat this problem, the industry is shifting from reactive correction to proactive protection. This article will examine why so many security leaders have realized they must “lead before the breach” – not after. Read Now

  • Achieving Clear Audio

    In today’s ever-changing world of security and risk management, effective communication via an intercom and door entry communication system is a critical communication tool to keep a facility’s staff, visitors and vendors safe. Read Now

Most   Popular

New Products

  • Automatic Systems V07

    Automatic Systems V07

    Automatic Systems, an industry-leading manufacturer of pedestrian and vehicle secure entrance control access systems, is pleased to announce the release of its groundbreaking V07 software. The V07 software update is designed specifically to address cybersecurity concerns and will ensure the integrity and confidentiality of Automatic Systems applications. With the new V07 software, updates will be delivered by means of an encrypted file.

  • A8V MIND

    A8V MIND

    Hexagon’s Geosystems presents a portable version of its Accur8vision detection system. A rugged all-in-one solution, the A8V MIND (Mobile Intrusion Detection) is designed to provide flexible protection of critical outdoor infrastructure and objects. Hexagon’s Accur8vision is a volumetric detection system that employs LiDAR technology to safeguard entire areas. Whenever it detects movement in a specified zone, it automatically differentiates a threat from a nonthreat, and immediately notifies security staff if necessary. Person detection is carried out within a radius of 80 meters from this device. Connected remotely via a portable computer device, it enables remote surveillance and does not depend on security staff patrolling the area.

  • Unified VMS

    AxxonSoft introduces version 2.0 of the Axxon One VMS. The new release features integrations with various physical security systems, making Axxon One a unified VMS. Other enhancements include new AI video analytics and intelligent search functions, hardened cybersecurity, usability and performance improvements, and expanded cloud capabilities