Comparison
125 kHz proximity cards or secure cards?
Many buildings and companies still use 125 kHz cards. They can be copied in seconds. What to know before replacing your system.
| 125 kHz proximity | Encrypted smart card (13.56 MHz) | Mobile credential | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Copying | Easy, cheap hardware | Hard if properly configured | Bound to the phone |
| Unit cost | Low | Moderate | No card |
| Revocation | In the system | In the system | Instant, remote |
| Recommendation | Replace | Good choice | Excellent complement |
How to know what you have
125 kHz cards are often thick and marked “Prox”, but appearance isn’t enough. The physical security assessment identifies your card and reader technology.
Migrating without replacing everything
Dual-technology readers exist for the transition. Cards are then replaced group by group.
Free tool
Open the calculator Take the cybersecurity self-assessment
Related services
Further reading
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Does UniFi Access use 125 kHz cards?
No, UniFi Access readers use NFC (13.56 MHz) and mobile credentials.
Planning physical security assessment?
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Updated 2026-11-05