New Report Reveals Top Trends Transforming Access Controller Technology

Mercury Security, a provider in access control hardware and open platform solutions, has published its Trends in Access Controllers Report, based on a survey of over 450 security professionals across North America and Europe. The findings highlight the controller’s vital role in a physical access control system (PACS), where the device not only enforces access policies but also connects with readers to verify user credentials—ranging from ID badges to biometrics and mobile identities. With 72% of respondents identifying the controller as a critical or important factor in PACS design, the report underscores how the choice of controller platform has become a strategic decision for today’s security leaders.

The key trends reshaping physical access controller design and selection include:

1. Security-First Thinking: 90% of respondents say staying aligned with cybersecurity standards is essential. More than 71% cite advanced protection – secure boot, OSDP, cryptography – as a top decision driver.

2. Mobile and Cloud Integration: 55% seek controller compatibility with other credentials, including mobile credentials. Over half (52%) report cloud enablement as critical for scalability, real-time monitoring and remote management.

3. Reliability is Non-Negotiable: 63% rank reliability and uptime as the most important criteria in controller selection – far outweighing cost or feature specifications.

4. Backward and Forward Compatibility: 86% require controllers that support long-term infrastructure planning through compatibility with past and future systems.

5. Interoperability and Open Architecture: 76% cite interoperability with mixed-device environments as essential, underscoring the shift toward flexible, standards-based systems.

The report also explores the emerging role of AI and edge computing in controller performance, as well as the growing integration of access data with building operations. Read the full report here.

Featured

New Products

  • 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.

  • FEP GameChanger

    FEP GameChanger

    Paige Datacom Solutions Introduces Important and Innovative Cabling Products GameChanger Cable, a proven and patented solution that significantly exceeds the reach of traditional category cable will now have a FEP/FEP construction.

  • 4K Video Decoder

    3xLOGIC’s VH-DECODER-4K is perfect for use in organizations of all sizes in diverse vertical sectors such as retail, leisure and hospitality, education and commercial premises.