Understanding as well as investing in MIFARE for your large or small business isn’t rocket science, but if you have never used them before, here’s a comprehensive guide.
What are MIFARE Cards?
To cut a long story short, they are contactless cards that come in a variety of designs and formats. These are built-in with a memory chip that is used to store all the data you need on your card. MIFARE cards are high-security cards as the data stored on the chip is encrypted. Moreover, the security of the MIFARE cards is further boosted due to the fact that these come with compartmentalised sections that guarantee only authorised access.
The technology was developed in 1944, by NXP Semiconductors, and you can see the use of these cards everywhere. The two most common and popular uses are contactless payment everywhere, from shops to public transport, and gaining access to your workplace but simply tapping the card on the reader.
How beneficial are MIFARE cards?
The best part about using MIFARE cards is that they are efficient yet affordable. Yes, most businesses tend to ignore the benefits of MIFARE cards assuming they might not come cheap, but the reality is quite the opposite.
Another great benefit is that they are versatile and easy to use, and the technology isn’t just restricted to cards. The MIFARE is now available for key fobs and wristbands as well.
Let’s talk security, these cards offer secure encryption, so your data is protected. They are available from low to high security depending on your budget. Moreover, they aren’t easy to hack or clone, which adds to the safety of your business as well as your precious data.
They are highly convenient as you only have to get the card in the range of the reader to make the transaction. No need to hand your card over to anyone and risk losing your card. The usage is quick, even better than swiping; one single tap is enough.
Where Can We Use MIFARE Cards?
There are endless uses of MIFARE cards, and if you pay close attention to your daily routine and surroundings, you will see that this particular technology is everywhere. MIFARE cards are mostly used as access control cards, loyalty cards, debit/credit cards, fuel and transport cards, etc. Here are some common areas where these cards are reused daily.
Employee Access: Most businesses, especially large businesses, use MIFARE cards as employee access cards. MIFARE cards also allow access to areas that need special access.
Public Transport: Another common use of MIFARE cards is to pay for public transport; that way, you don’t need to carry cash. It’s quick and efficient, and you don’t have to wait for the change either.
Student ID Cards: Keeping track of thousands of students can get tricky, hence most universities use MIFARE cards as student ID cards. This way the staff as well as the students are efficiently identified, and they also get access to libraries and other such areas without any hassle.
MIFARE cards and technology aren’t new, but yes, they are getting more popular now than ever.