Access control systems are evolving rapidly, striving for greater flexibility, convenience, interoperability, security, and future-ready solutions. To meet these demands, new technologies are needed alongside established ones like NFC. In this context, ultra-wideband (UWB) technology is at the forefront, working alongside NFC and BLE. UWB’s ability to provide precise location tracking, hands-free convenience, and unparalleled security makes it an ideal solution for both physical and logical access control. Whether you’re unlocking a door, accessing your vehicle, or logging into a device, UWB is setting a new standard for secure and seamless access.
Benefits of UWB Technology for Access Control
UWB technology uses Time-of-Flight (ToF), measuring the time it takes for a signal to travel between devices. This allows UWB to determine proximity with centimeter-level accuracy, enabling systems to grant access to authorized users as they approach openings.
Unlike traditional access control systems relying on physical actions—such as swiping a badge or entering a code—UWB allows users to gain entry simply by approaching an access point. This makes UWB uniquely suited for access control applications. Here’s why:
- Precision: UWB's ability to accurately measure distance and direction minimizes unauthorized access risks.
- Hands-Free Convenience: Doors unlock or devices grant access as a user approaches, eliminating manual interactions.
- Robust Security: Significantly more resistant to signal jamming, spoofing, and relay attacks, UWB enhances security compared to conventional wireless technologies.
- Smartphone Integration: Many modern smartphones are now equipped with UWB capabilities, simplifying adoption and reducing the need for additional keys or cards.
Physical Access Control: Leveraging UWB for Seamless Entry Solutions
UWB technology is an enhancement to access control, leveraging the proximity of a device to determine when to unlock a door or vehicle for an authorized user. UWB-enabled entry points communicate with UWB-enabled user devices, such as smartphones or tags, to pass digital credentials and determine if the device is within range: this is called Proof-of-Presence.
Common Applications of UWB Physical Access Control:
- Building Entry: Corporate offices and facilities can use UWB for seamless entry without keypads or scanners.
- FiRa has partnered with the Connectivity Standards Alliance to simplify UWB deployments in sectors such as smart home, automotive, and industrial IoT while encouraging further innovation and growth in the market.
- Vehicle Access: Keyless entry and ignition systems use UWB for enhanced convenience and security, preventing relay attacks.
- FiRa Consortium works closely with the Car Connectivity Consortium® (CCC) to develop and maintain UWB technology in the CCC Digital Key.
- Smart Homes: Automate door locks, lighting, and temperature controls based on user proximity.
Logical Access Control: A New Era for Digital Security
Beyond physical spaces, UWB is transforming logical access control by securing digital devices and services. For example, a UWB-enabled laptop can leverage proof-of-presence and automatically unlock when an authorized smartphone is nearby and lock when the user moves away. Consequently, under nominal conditions, the need for passwords is reduced, thereby improving security and convenience.
Key Use Cases of Logical Access Control:
- Device Security: Laptops, desktops, and tablets unlock seamlessly based on user device proximity. FiRa is in the process of developing potential use cases for this application.
- Sensitive Data Protection: Access to critical applications or files is restricted unless the user device is in a designated area.
- Corporate Applications: Employees can access shared systems without needing additional physical tokens or passwords.
The Future of UWB in Access Control
As UWB technology becomes more integrated into consumer devices and access systems, its applications are set to expand. Beyond security, UWB could enhance user experiences in industries like healthcare, retail, and entertainment. Features such as in-car child presence detection, gesture recognition, and personalized customer interactions could soon become commonplace.
In a world that demands both security and convenience, UWB is transforming how we approach access control. With its unmatched precision, hands-free capabilities, and robust security, UWB is not just a technological advancement—it’s a glimpse into the future of smarter, safer living and working environments.
If you’re ready to explore how UWB can enhance security and convenience, visit our Resource Hub to learn more.