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A Comprehensive Comparison of MIFARE and Proximity Cards


For identification and access control, organizations have adopted the use of proximity cards and MIFARE. The technologies streamline operations, save time, and improve security.

 

While the two technologies have an almost similar working rationale, a few differences set them apart.

 

So, what are the exact differences between a MIFARE and a proximity card? This article provides a detailed examination of the two technologies, including their features, benefits, and drawbacks.

 

What Exactly Is A Proximity Card?

A proximity card, also known as a prox card, is a low-frequency contactless card that communicates with a reader via 125 kHz radio waves.

 

Unlike traditional magnetic cards, prox cards do not need to be inserted into a reading device. The lack of swiping ensures convenience and increases security.

 

When you bring the card close to the reader, it detects the radio waves and returns the data in less than a second. When this occurs, the reader will make a beep sound.

 

How Do Proximity Cards Function?

The cards contain a metallic antenna coil that stores all of the cardholder's data. The device transmits data to the reader at a low frequency of 125 kHz.

 

As a result, the cards have a limited read range of up to 50 cm (or approximately 15 inches). This read range, however, is sufficient to allow you to leave your card in your wallet/purse and still have your data captured by the reader.

 

The card's primary function is to grant access to buildings and other designated areas. If you're curious about how these cards work, here's a detailed explanation:

 

The proximity card system includes the following critical components:

 

A card with proximity

A card reader with pre-programmed data

Data analysis system software

These proximity cards contain a pre-programmed number that can be recognized by a reader.

 

When the card is in close proximity to the reader, the data is captured and transmitted to the system software.

 

The data will then be analyzed by the software to see if it matches any of the pre-programmed numbers. If the card number is accepted by the reader, the doors will open, allowing access.

 

What Exactly Is MIFARE?

MIFARE is an acronym that stands for MIkron FARE Collection System. The NXP card is small enough to fit in various materials, such as wristbands, smartphones, plastic materials, and key fobs.

 

MIFARE has grown in popularity due to its versatility in employee identification, transportation, stadium access management, and library control. The technology is compliant with ISO/IEC 14443.

 

MIFARE Technology Origins

The ISO/IEC 14443 memory IC standard introduced the technology in 1994. Many businesses used it to implement contactless smart card systems.

 

MIFARE Technology Applications

MIFARE is a technology that is used for authentication, identification, and data storage. The technology is useful in the following areas:

 

Transportation. MIFARE cards are highly valuable assets in the ticketing industry. They enable cashless and quick payment in buses and trains. The Clipper Card in San Francisco, the Oyster Card in London, and the TROIKA Card in Moscow are examples of outstanding MIFARE ticketing cards.

Identification Systems for University Libraries MIFARE technology has been adopted by institutions all over the world to identify students, grant access to various university departments, and manage inventory. Cambridge, San Francisco, and the National University of Singapore are among the universities that use the MIFARE system.

Corporate Building Access Control. Many corporations are incorporating MIFARE into their security management system. The EU Commission, Nestle, and General Motors are among the organizations that have adopted this technology.

Hotel Guest Management MIFARE is used by many hotels to manage their inventories and provide access to their rooms. Hilton, Rosewood, and Hyatt are among the hotels that use this strategy.

Stadium administration. Managing fans can be difficult if strict security measures are not implemented. Because of these difficulties, most stadiums have begun to use MIFARE to control their fans. Manchester, Sao Paulo, and Istanbul are examples of such stadiums.

MIFARE is being adopted by many other industries due to its ease of use and guaranteed security. All ISO/IEC 14443 standards for Near Field Communication (NFC) transmission are met by the technology.

 

MIFARE Card Types

MIFARE cards include a small chip with enough memory to store data. It uses the same frequency as HF tags, 13.56 MHz. Here are the various MIFARE tags to consider when shopping:

 

MIFARE Classic

This is a write/read chip with a non-unique identifier of 4 bytes or a unique identifier of 7 bytes. It is reasonably priced in comparison to other chips on the market.

 

It faced several security challenges because it was the first MIFARE chip. As a result, NXP developed new chip versions with improved safety and security.

 

 MIFARE Classic EV1 

This is a chip with either 1K or 4K of EEPROM memory. It has strong encryption capabilities and transfers data at a rate of 106 kb/s.

 

MIFARE DESFire

The chip is available in three variants: EV1, EV2, and Light. It incorporates innovative security features such as 3-factor authentication and an on-chip backup system.

 

Furthermore, the tag complies with NFC Tag type 4, ISO/IEC 14442A, and ISO/IEC 7814-4. Compliance ensures the security of the data stored. It can transfer data at a rate of 848 Kbit/s.

 

MIFARE Plus (Multi-Factor Authentication)

MIFARE Plus EV2 and MIFARE Plus SE are included in this version. It includes advanced security features like data encryption and AES authentication. MIFARE Plus cards are also ISO/IEC 14443 compliant.

 

MIFARE Ultralight

The chip includes an IOS unique identifier as well as one-time programmable memory. It comes in three varieties: MIFARE Ultralight C, MIFARE Ultralight EV1, and MIFARE Ultralight Nano.

 

What Is the Difference Between MIFARE and Proximity Cards?

There are four major distinctions between a MIFARE card and a proximity card. They are as follows:

 

Operational Frequency

MIFARE cards operate at 13.56 MHz, which is the same frequency as a high-frequency RFID tag. A standard proximity card, on the other hand, operates at 125 kHz. As a result, a MIFARE card will have a greater read range than prox cards.

 

Memory/Storage Space

A MIFARE includes memory for storing data. It can store critical cardholder information, making it ideal for inventory management. The storage capacity of MIFARE cards varies by type but averages one kilobyte.

 

Data storage space on proximity cards is limited. As a result, these cards are only useful when used in conjunction with pre-programmed numbers to gain access to restricted areas.

 

Configuration

A MIFARE card is assigned a unique 32-bit serial number at the factory. This number is generated at random and does not include the facility code. On the other hand, facility codes are required for 26-bit proximity cards.

 

Functionality

MIFARE cards are more versatile than proximity cards. They can be used in a variety of applications, such as contactless/cashless payment, road tolling, identification, access control, and fare collection.

 

Even better, the MIFARE card can be programmed with multiple data sets. This feature enables you to update the card's information to include all of the information that you require for various purposes. MIFARE memory cards can also be used with pre-paid membership cards and cash cards.

 

On the contrary, proximity cards are only used for access control. These cards have fixed numbers that must correspond to those in a pre-programmed reader. The cardholder is granted access following the match. The cards do not contain any personalized information about authenticated personnel, which may jeopardize security.

 

What Are RFID Readers and Proximity Card Readers?

An RFID/Proximity card reader is a device that reads and interprets data from a chip. Readers can be either portable or fixed.

 

When you select the fixed type, you will be asked to specify an easily accessible location for installation. Ensure that there are no impediments to the transmission process.

 

Why Are RFID And Proximity Card Readers Necessary?

MIFARE and proximity cards are components of a larger system. To achieve the best results, ensure a synergistic approach on MIFARE and proximity card systems.

 

This necessitates the use of highly efficient card readers. These readers, also known as interrogators, are intended to capture and analyze card data.

 

How to Select an RFID Reader

When choosing your readers, keep the following factors in mind:

 

You have the ability to read your cards. Before purchasing a reader, make sure it can read the frequency of your card. You could, for example, have a reader that only reads 125 kHz frequency cards. If you have a MIFARE card, the reader will not assist you in this situation.

Considerations for Software The data from your cards is captured by the reader and sent to software for detailed interpretation. MIFARE cards are pre-programmed with a 32-bit number, whereas proximity cards have a 26-bit number. As a result, you must ensure that your software can easily interpret the pre-encoded data.

When purchasing your reader, make certain that it is strategically placed to capture all cards entering your premises. You should also check compatibility with your cards before purchasing.


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