From the user perspective, contactless access works simply. To disarm the system, all you need is to present a card or a key fob to the keypad. But there is an impressive technology behind this simplicity. Pass cards and Tag key fobs are equipped with DESFire® chips. We compared them to the chips used in most access systems around the world.
Chip
EM-Marin
MIFARE® Classic®
MIFARE® DESFire®
Use
Simple access systems: barriers, intercoms, hotel rooms.
Combined access systems, where additional information is stored on the chip: fitness clubs, entertainment centers.
Systems with multi-level access in government, international and military institutions.
Encryption
No
Crypto-1 stream cipher with a key size of 48 bits.
A number of studies have shown the possibility of hacking this cipher with tools that are freely available.
Triple DES encryption and AES hardware encryption with 128-bit key.
It will take several supercomputers and millions of years to hack.
Memory
No built-in memory
Up to 4 KB of built-in memory, which allows you to store data on payment, card expiration date, users.
Up to 8 KB built-in memory that allows you to store user data and access keys to multiple security systems.