Access control systems serve as a cornerstone of modern physical security infrastructure. Within these systems, card numbers play a crucial role that extends far beyond simple identification. These numbers contain multiple layers of embedded information that determine access permissions, track usage patterns, and maintain security protocols across organizations of all sizes.
Understanding the structure and significance of these numbers is essential for security administrators, facility managers, and IT professionals who manage access control systems. Each component – from facility codes to individual identifiers – serves specific security and administrative functions that work together to create a comprehensive security framework.
The Basics of Card Numbers
Every HID Prox card contains a unique identifier that sets it apart from others. This identifier isn’t just a random string of numbers – it’s a carefully structured code that contains multiple layers of information. When a card is presented to a reader, this identifier is transmitted and processed to determine whether access should be granted. The system works through a sophisticated combination of facility codes, individual card numbers, and error-checking mechanisms that ensure secure and reliable access control.
Core Components of Card Numbers
Facility Codes
The facility code is your organization’s unique identifier in the access control system. This number typically ranges from 0 to 255 in standard formats, though some systems can accommodate larger ranges. When you use HID Prox II cards, this code ensures that cards from other organizations can’t accidentally grant access to your facilities. The facility code acts as the first line of defense against unauthorized access attempts.
Beyond basic identification, facility codes serve several crucial purposes:
- They allow organizations to maintain separate security domains
- Enable multi-site management with distinct identification
- Provide a way to segment access control across different departments or buildings
- Help prevent cross-contamination between different organizations’ security systems
Individual Card Numbers
Each proximity card within your facility gets its own unique number. In the most common format, these numbers can range from 0 to 65,535. This vast range allows for significant scalability in most organizations, though larger enterprises might opt for formats supporting even more combinations.
The individual card number serves multiple purposes:
- Uniquely identifies each cardholder in the system
- Enables tracking of access attempts and usage patterns
- Allows for quick deactivation of lost or stolen cards
- Facilitates audit trails and security investigations
- Supports time-based access restrictions for specific cards
Understanding Card Formats in Detail
The 26-bit Standard
This is the most widely used format in the industry, but its popularity doesn’t tell the whole story. The 26-bit format combines:
- An 8-bit facility code (0-255)
- A 16-bit card number (0-65,535)
- Two parity bits for error-checking
The 26-bit format’s widespread adoption comes with both advantages and limitations:
- Advantages:
- Widely supported by most reader technologies
- Simple to implement and manage
- Compatible with older systems
- Easy to troubleshoot
- Limitations:
- A limited number of unique combinations
- Increased risk of duplicate cards
- Less secure than newer formats
- May not meet modern security requirements
Enhanced Formats
35-bit Format
The 35-bit format represents a significant upgrade in capabilities:
- Supports facility codes up to 4,095
- Accommodates card numbers up to 1,048,575
- Provides enhanced security through additional data bits
- Offers better protection against unauthorized duplication
- Enables more sophisticated access control policies
Implementation considerations for 35-bit format:
- Requires compatible reader hardware
- May need software upgrades
- Provides better future-proofing
- Supports larger organizations more effectively
37-bit Format
The 37-bit format takes a different approach:
- Eliminates the facility code completely
- Provides a massive card number range of up to 34,359,738,367
- Offers maximum flexibility for large-scale deployments
- Supports advanced security features
Advantages of the 37-bit format:
- Virtually eliminates the possibility of duplicate cards
- Simplifies cross-facility access management
- Provides better support for global organizations
- Enables more sophisticated security protocols
Advanced Card Number Management
Sequential Numbering Strategies
While sequential numbering isn’t mandatory in HID prox cards, it offers several benefits:
- Simplifies card inventory management
- Makes it easier to identify card series and batches
- Helps track card issuance chronologically
- Supports better audit trails
- Enables quick identification of card generations
Best practices for sequential numbering:
- Reserve number ranges for different departments
- Leave gaps for future expansion
- Document number allocation policies
- Maintain clear records of issued sequences
- Plan for the number of recycling procedures
Preventing and Managing Duplicates
Duplicate prevention requires a systematic approach:
- Implement strict card-ordering procedures
- Maintain detailed card inventory records
- Regularly audit active card numbers
- Use software tools to detect potential duplicates
- Establish clear protocols for number reuse
Risk factors for duplicate cards:
- Multiple ordering sources
- Poor record-keeping
- Lack of centralized control
- Inadequate audit procedures
- Emergency card issuance situations
Security Implications and Considerations
Format Security Analysis
Different formats offer varying levels of security:
- 26-bit: Basic security suitable for smaller organizations
- 35-bit: Enhanced security for medium to large organizations
- 37-bit: Maximum security for enterprise-level deployments
Security considerations by format:
- Vulnerability to cloning
- Resistance to brute-force attacks
- Protection against data manipulation
- Support for encryption features
- Compatibility with security audit requirements
Internal Programming and Card Printing
The relationship between internal and external numbers serves several security purposes:
- Prevents visual number matching by unauthorized persons
- Enables secure card replacement procedures
- Supports anti-counterfeiting measures
- Facilitates secure card production processes
- Enables translation between visual and programmed numbers
Enterprise-Level Card Management
Documentation Requirements
Comprehensive documentation should include:
- Complete card number inventory
- Facility code assignments
- Format specifications
- Reader configuration details
- Access level assignments
- Emergency procedures
- Audit trail requirements
- Backup and recovery procedures
System Architecture Planning
Effective planning considerations:
- Reader technology compatibility
- Software system requirements
- Database management needs
- Backup and redundancy requirements
- Scalability considerations
- Integration with other security systems
- Emergency access procedures
- Disaster recovery planning
The Takeaway
Whether managing a small office or a global enterprise, these fundamental concepts form the backbone of modern physical security systems. Follow best practices and stay informed about emerging technologies. This is how organizations can maintain robust security while preparing for future developments in access control technology.
For the best quality cards for your facility, reach out to Bristol ID Technologies and get your order in!