In the field of physical security, the increased computing power of local devices — particularly access controllers — paves the way for new capabilities. For example, Mercury MP Intelligent Controllers feature a secure, containerized framework for running Mercury- and partner-developed applications directly on the device. The app environment dramatically increases flexibility by allowing new functionality to be deployed throughout the life of the device. It also supports greater interoperability and allows organizations to customize controller functionality to specific needs without replacing hardware.

This article explores the technical underpinnings of the Mercury Embedded Application Environment, including architecture, security management and data processing workflows.

A Three-Tiered Architecture Supports Security, Extensibility and Performance

The open architecture of Mercury MP Controllers consists of three interdependent layers: hardware, platform OS and application environment. This layered structure allows for secure operation, controlled extensibility and consistent performance.

1. Hardware Layer
At the foundation is a secure processor with hardware-enforced protections, including ARM TrustZone. TrustZone enables execution isolation, separating secure operations — such as cryptographic routines and credential handling — from general-purpose application logic. Combined with memory isolation, cryptographic accelerators and secure key storage, this architecture ensures that sensitive operations are rooted in tamper-resistant components and shielded from memory corruption, privilege escalation and other runtime threats.

2. Platform Operating System
MercOS firmware provides a real-time execution environment based on a hardened Linux kernel. This operating system governs process scheduling, memory management, system logging and network interfaces. It supports secure boot and digital signature validation, verifying firmware and application images at startup. Only signed and trusted binaries can be executed.

Secure boot is enforced from the first instruction the controller runs. Each layer of software is validated against cryptographic signatures, ensuring that unauthorized or modified code cannot run even if a component is physically compromised.

3. Embedded Application Environment
Above the OS is the containerized Mercury Embedded Application Environment. This layer allows applications to run in isolated user spaces with scoped access to APIs and system resources. Apps do not run as root processes and cannot interact with each other or the OS beyond defined boundaries.

The architecture uses digital signatures and manifest-driven permissions to restrict each application’s behavior. Before deployment, all apps are cryptographically signed and must be validated by the controller. During execution, the platform enforces strict separation between application logic, OS services and hardware interfaces.

Security Controls

Security in the embedded application environment begins at the foundation and governs every operational layer. As physical access systems take on greater roles in safety, compliance and operational continuity, their criticality continues to grow.

At the same time, these systems are becoming more digital — integrating with IT infrastructure, supporting cloud services and enabling mobile access. This convergence demands a cybersecurity posture that can handle both physical security requirements and the risks introduced by increased connectivity.

The Mercury Embedded Application Environment architecture enforces trust through structural controls applied from hardware to application logic. Each component and interaction is scoped, verified and constrained to maintain system integrity. This security model applies verified code execution, strict boundary enforcement and controlled data flow to align with enterprise IT requirements.

Data Movement and Execution Control

Applications do not interact with hardware or the network stack directly. Instead, all communication flows through well-defined platform APIs. These APIs provide access to real-time access event data, reader and door control, sensor inputs, logging, telemetry and external system communication.

By centralizing these interfaces, the controller architecture enforces consistency and reduces the risk of low-level system manipulation. This design also makes it easier to upgrade underlying system services without requiring app rewrites, enhancing long-term compatibility and support.

An access event such as the presentation of a badge or the activation of a sensor results in the controller OS dispatching the event through the API layer. Applications subscribed to that event class can process the input, apply logic and invoke responses, such as unlocking a cabinet, sending a log entry or alerting a security team.

Each application has a manifest that defines its resource access and event subscriptions. If an app attempts to exceed its allowed permissions, the platform blocks the action and logs the violation.

Scalability and Maintainability

The modular architecture supports large-scale deployments with centralized oversight. Updates can be staged, signed, distributed and applied without physical access or system downtime. This simplifies lifecycle management, supports policy enforcement at scale and reduces operational overhead.

App versioning and rollback support give administrators confidence in deployment planning. Updates can be verified and tested before wide rollout, and issues can be remediated quickly with minimal disruption.

Enabling Adaptive Access Control

This architecture supports applications that extend beyond credential management. With secure execution, structured interfaces and containerized logic, the embedded application environment enables access control systems to function as decision engines — supporting identity assurance, compliance enforcement, IoT coordination and operational intelligence from a single resilient platform.

For facility leaders and technical decision-makers, this represents a long-term architectural strategy. By embedding intelligence at the edge and designing for modular software growth, the platform avoids the constraints of static infrastructure. It supports policy agility, integration flexibility and lifecycle resilience — all while maintaining the security posture required in today’s converged environments.

Mercury MP Controllers provide a foundation for future-ready access systems that scale with business needs, adapt to regulatory shifts and stay protected against emerging threats. In a landscape where the line between physical and digital security continues to fade, this architecture is built to lead. Ready to modernize your access control strategy? Discover how Mercury’s embedded architecture can help you scale securely and adapt with confidence. [Add link when available]

The convergence of edge computing and access control is changing how physical security systems operate. Mercury MP Intelligent Controllers run a unique embedded application environment that redefines the role of access control devices from transactional endpoints to intelligent, extensible platforms. This shift allows security systems to act faster, scale smarter and adapt to future needs by embedding logic and integrations directly where decisions are made.

Moving Intelligence to the Edge

Legacy access control architectures relied on centralized logic hosted on upstream servers. These designs created latency, introduced single points of failure and limited system adaptability. Mercury MP Controllers break from that model by supporting an embedded application environment that runs custom and certified third-party software directly on the controller. This means decisions are made at the edge, close to the point of access, where real-time performance and fault tolerance matter most.

What the Embedded App Environment Enables

At the core of this architecture is a secure, containerized execution layer that allows multiple apps to run independently on the controller. Each app is signed, verified and restricted to its defined permissions. This structure preserves core system integrity while giving developers the ability to extend functionality.

Apps can interact with connected devices like readers, sensors and locks, as well as upstream enterprise systems. They are deployed without altering base firmware, allowing systems to evolve through modular updates rather than hardware swaps or full software rewrites.

Real-World Application Scenarios

Several certified applications available at launch illustrate how the embedded app environment delivers tangible value across key use cases.

Securing Server Cabinets in Data Centers
The ASSA ABLOY HES KS210 app enables direct integration with up to 32 OSDP server cabinet locks. This app simplifies deployment in data centers that need cabinet-level access control, audit trails and compliance visibility. Running natively on the controller, it eliminates the need for custom integration or middleware, reducing both complexity and cost.

Enforcing PKI-Based Authentication for Federal Facilities
The HID pivCLASS application adds PIV and CAC credential validation at the door, supporting environments governed by FICAM and other federal access standards. This app handles cryptographic verification directly at the controller, removing dependencies on external servers and aligning with high-security, low-latency access requirements.

Device Health and Lifecycle Management at Scale
Mercury partners provide applications that monitor system status, report vulnerabilities and take automated action to maintain device integrity. These apps enable password rotation, firmware updates and certificate management, all from within the controller environment. Organizations with large-scale deployments gain centralized oversight and automated remediation without sacrificing decentralization or edge autonomy.

Each of these applications demonstrates how the embedded app environment extends access control beyond credential verification to deliver operational, compliance and security outcomes.

Technical Architecture and Security

The app environment is engineered to enforce strict security controls throughout the controller runtime. Applications run in secure, containerized partitions, isolated from both each other and the base firmware. This prevents unauthorized interactions and protects system stability even if one app fails or is compromised.

All apps must be digitally signed and validated before deployment. Execution permissions are defined via an app manifest, restricting system resource access to only what is explicitly allowed. The controller OS enforces these boundaries and supports secure firmware boot and update mechanisms to ensure only verified code runs at startup.

Communication between apps, the OS and external systems is governed by a standardized API framework. This provides consistent integration while preventing unauthorized data access or system manipulation. Because the platform supports structured versioning and validation workflows, updates can be managed with confidence, even across large controller fleets.

This security architecture ensures that flexibility does not come at the cost of control. The result is a development and deployment model that is scalable, secure and well-aligned with modern enterprise IT practices.

A Foundation for Innovation

The embedded application environment also unlocks new opportunities for innovation. OEMs and integration partners can develop solutions that address specific vertical requirements, whether for health care, education, finance or transportation, without waiting for firmware updates or relying on closed vendor ecosystems.

By supporting open development and structured app certification, the platform encourages ecosystem growth while maintaining system integrity. This allows access control to keep pace with changing operational needs, regulatory frameworks and threat landscapes.

Software-Defined Access at the Edge

With Mercury MP Controllers and their embedded app environment, access control becomes software-defined, capable of real-time processing, modular integration and secure operation at the edge. This architecture supports new use cases, streamlines complex deployments and enables adaptive response across distributed environments.

As the access control industry evolves, platforms that combine embedded intelligence with secure extensibility will define the next generation of physical security infrastructure. The future of smarter, faster, more secure access begins at the edge.

Learn how edge computing on Mercury MP Controllers can help your organization become more secure and streamline operations. Talk to an expert today.

The Integration Imperative in Access Control: What Open Architecture Really Means

“Open” is one of the most overused — and misunderstood — terms in access control. Walk through any industry trade show or read any product brochure and you’ll see it everywhere. But when every solution claims to be “open,” the word loses meaning and customers are left to navigate a maze of semi-compatible systems and incomplete integrations.

At its core, open access control is defined by adherence to industry standards. Open protocols like OSDP for secure reader communication, BACnet for building automation and MQTT for IoT are foundational to creating interoperable systems. These protocols establish a universal language, allowing devices from different manufacturers to communicate seamlessly without the limitations of proprietary systems.

However, true openness goes far beyond just protocols — it’s about offering real choice and flexibility. The strategic value of open architecture is the ability to integrate hardware, software and cloud services from different vendors and platforms rather than being artificially limited by proprietary boundaries. As a result, organizations can tailor the solution to their specific needs and adapt as new technology emerges. It requires long-term commitment to an environment where hardware, software and cloud services can work together across vendors, products and platforms.

Defining Openness in Access Control

An access control system built on open architecture creates a framework that supports broad interoperability across the full stack — edge devices, security controllers, software platforms, APIs and cloud environments.

Open doesn’t mean “anything goes.” It means consistent, secure and predictable interfaces that third parties can reliably build on. It requires well-defined SDKs and a structured developer ecosystem that enables rapid innovation without compromising security or stability. In access control, openness benefits from a controlled approach — providing APIs and tools to verified partners to ensure secure integration, maintain system integrity and prevent misuse that could introduce vulnerabilities.

Why Integration Matters More Than Ever

Security infrastructures are no longer isolated. They’re complex ecosystems that include access control, video surveillance, identity platforms, building management systems, IoT sensors and cloud services. These elements need to work together and the glue that holds them together is integration.

According to recent research by Mercury, 76% of access control professionals cite interoperability as a critical requirement. As organizations grow increasingly reliant on hybrid systems and distributed architectures, the ability to integrate is a baseline expectation.

Additionally, flexibility helps protect system investments by avoiding costly rip-and-replace cycles. Open architecture enables gradual upgrades, modular deployments and long-term scalability without starting over every few years.

The Economic and Strategic Value of Openness

Beyond technical flexibility, open architecture delivers tangible business benefits. By supporting multi-vendor environments, organizations can choose best-of-breed components rather than being locked into a single supplier. This competition fosters innovation, improves quality and reduces costs.

Open systems also make it easier to respond to change. Whether that’s integrating a new biometric reader, adding mobile credential support or connecting to a cloud-based identity platform, an open controller should provide the hooks to plug in and scale without disruption.

And because truly open platforms don’t rely on proprietary connectors or closed software stacks, they’re easier to maintain and future-proof. Organizations can shift strategies, vendors or technologies without rebuilding the entire infrastructure.

Enabling Intelligence at the Edge

New edge computing capabilities are a natural extension of the open-architecture vision. By pushing processing capabilities closer to the access point, edge-enabled systems reduce latency, support real-time decision-making and maintain continuity during network interruptions.

An open access control platform supports edge functionality by allowing third-party applications to run directly on controllers, integrating tightly with local sensors, readers and devices while maintaining compatibility with broader cloud and enterprise systems. This decentralization reinforces both security and flexibility, making edge computing a key part of an open, future-ready access control strategy.

Openness and Security: Not a Tradeoff

Some hesitate at the word “open,” associating it with increased risk. But openness and security are allies. In fact, the transparency and standardization that come with open architecture are key to building robust, secure systems.

Open protocols like OSDP support encrypted communication between readers and controllers. Published APIs allow for secure, audited integrations rather than ad-hoc connections. Modular architectures with signed apps and containerized environments give organizations control over what runs in their systems without compromising performance or reliability. These capabilities support secure, structured and standards-driven interoperability.

A Win-Win Approach to System Design

For system integrators, consultants and end users, the takeaway is clear: ask harder questions. If a vendor claims to be “open,” dig deeper. Do they support industry protocols? Can their controllers interface with third-party software and hardware without costly customization?

Look for evidence of real openness — support for non-proprietary interfaces, flexible upgrade paths and developer engagement. In access control, this represents a long-term strategy that determines how well a system will serve you over time.

In access control, the ability to integrate across technology solutions has become critical to security, flexibility and investment protection. True integration is only possible with a foundation of open architecture. As systems become more complex and expectations grow, the ability to integrate securely and flexibly is what sets future-ready platforms apart. At the end of the day, openness refers to specific technology characteristics, but it’s also an ethos focused on delivering freedom of choice, resilience in the face of change and the ability to innovate without limits.

Learn more about how Mercury embodies the principles of open architecture. Talk to an expert today.

The Future of Access Control: What Comes Next?

The next evolution of access control is unfolding as organizations adopt cloud, edge computing and IoT-driven security strategies. According to the 2025 Trends in Access Controllers Report, 72% of security professionals consider controllers a critical part of their system design and 44% are adopting edge computing. These trends signal a shift toward more adaptable, data-driven security systems that can operate reliably across complex environments.

Expanding Intelligence at the Edge

Controllers are handling more security logic on-site rather than relying on centralized systems. Edge computing allows access decisions, credential verification and security responses to happen locally, which improves reliability and reduces delays. This shift is particularly valuable for organizations managing high-volume facilities, remote locations, or sites where network outages would otherwise disrupt operations.

The Trends in Access Controllers Report highlights that 53% of organizations integrate building occupancy data into their security systems. When controllers process this data at the edge, they can adjust access permissions in real time based on occupancy levels or compliance requirements without waiting for a cloud-based update. This capability strengthens both security and operational efficiency.

The Convergence of Access Control and IoT

Security systems are increasingly connected to broader building management infrastructure. The survey found that 37% of organizations prioritize IoT integration when selecting controllers, ensuring access systems work with lighting, HVAC and other automation technologies. Controllers capable of processing real-time data from multiple systems can contribute to energy efficiency, compliance monitoring and space optimization.

For example, access controllers that detect unauthorized attempts to enter a facility can trigger automated camera recordings, lock down specific areas, or alert building personnel without requiring manual intervention. These automated workflows improve response times and create a more cohesive security strategy.

Hybrid Cloud and Scalable Infrastructure

While cloud-based access control is gaining traction — 52% of organizations now use cloud-enabled controllers — most systems will continue operating in a hybrid model. Controllers will balance local processing with cloud-based analytics, long-term data storage and remote management. This approach ensures that systems remain responsive while allowing security teams to centralize monitoring and streamline updates across multiple locations.

Scalability remains a priority. Modular controllers allow organizations to expand security coverage without replacing existing infrastructure. The Trends in Access Controllers Report shows that 86% of respondents prioritize backward and forward compatibility, ensuring that new technology integrates with legacy systems. This flexibility helps organizations modernize security without excessive cost or operational disruption.

Cybersecurity and Embedded Applications

Security teams recognize the increasing risks associated with connected access control systems. The report found that 90% of organizations actively track evolving cybersecurity standards, yet 21% say their current controllers lack critical protections. To address these risks, the latest controllers incorporate hardware-based security measures such as encrypted communication, secure boot and ARM TrustZone architecture to protect against unauthorized access.

Controllers that support embedded applications offer an additional layer of security and customization. Instead of relying solely on external servers, these controllers can run security applications locally to monitor system integrity, manage credentials, or enforce compliance policies in real time. This capability allows organizations to tailor security protocols to specific operational needs while maintaining a controlled, verifiable software environment.

What Comes Next?

The access control industry is shifting toward systems that process data closer to where security events occur, integrate with enterprise-wide infrastructure and scale across distributed locations. The ability to manage security logic at the edge, connect with IoT devices and maintain hybrid cloud functionality will shape future deployments.

Organizations evaluating new controllers should consider their ability to support these trends. Mercury MP Intelligent Controllers are designed for this next phase of access control, combining edge processing, advanced cybersecurity and a flexible architecture that supports evolving security and operational needs.

Read the full 2025 Trends in Access Controllers Report to explore how organizations are preparing for the next generation of security technology.

Security at a Crossroads: How Organizations Balance Innovation and Risk

The access control industry is evolving rapidly, driven by cloud adoption, mobile credentials and edge computing. Mercury’s 2025 Trends in Access Controllers Report found that 72% of security professionals consider controllers a critical part of their access strategy, expecting stronger integration, real-time decision-making and improved cybersecurity.

Yet, embracing change means addressing new challenges. Organizations must navigate legacy system compatibility, emerging cyber threats and the need for long-term flexibility. The right balance of security, adaptability and future-ready design will shape the next era of access control.

Cloud-Connected, Locally Resilient

Cloud-enabled access control continues to gain ground, with 52% of organizations now using controllers that support cloud connectivity. Centralized management, real-time monitoring and streamlined software updates make cloud adoption appealing.

Still, complete reliance on the cloud remains unlikely. Security systems must continue to function even when network connections are disrupted. Edge-enabled controllers address this by processing authentication requests and enforcing policies locally, reducing delays and improving system reliability.

Mobile Credential Adoption Continues

More than half of respondents cited mobile credential support as a key factor in their controller selection. Mobile credentials offer clear advantages: they are less likely to be misplaced, easier to manage remotely and often more tightly linked to a user’s identity.

They also hold up well in terms of security. Most systems store credentials in secure areas of the phone’s hardware, not in the app itself. Data sent between the phone and the reader are encrypted, which makes it difficult to intercept or spoof. A controller that natively supports mobile credentials and can be updated via software with the latest protocols and capabilities serves to enhance a mobile credential strategy.

Interoperability and the Challenge of Legacy Infrastructure

Integrating new technology with existing infrastructure remains one of the biggest hurdles to modernization. The report found that 76% of organizations prioritize interoperability in controller selection, aiming for compatibility across diverse devices and systems. Backward and forward compatibility also weighs heavily in long-term planning, with 86% of respondents identifying it as a key consideration.

Controllers serve as a bridge between past and future technologies. They must work seamlessly with access readers, sensors, alarms and other security systems while supporting emerging protocols and integrations. This adaptability minimizes costly system overhauls and extends the lifespan of security investments.

Many organizations favor modular controller platforms that allow phased upgrades rather than full-scale replacements. This approach provides a smoother transition to new technology, ensuring security strategies remain adaptable as threats and operational needs evolve.

Cybersecurity in a Networked Security Ecosystem

With access control becoming more interconnected, cybersecurity remains top of mind. Nearly 90% of organizations track evolving security standards, recognizing that vulnerabilities in access controllers could expose broader enterprise systems to risk. Yet, 21% of respondents reported that their controllers lack critical cybersecurity protections.

Secure controller platforms address these risks with embedded safeguards, including encrypted communication, secure boot and hardware-based threat isolation. A structured software development process ensures that only verified applications run on these devices, reducing the risk of unauthorized code or exploits.

Regular updates and patches allow controllers to keep pace with emerging threats without disrupting operations. As cyberattacks grow more sophisticated, organizations need security frameworks that proactively address vulnerabilities rather than merely react to known risks.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Access Control

The industry is shifting toward more intelligent, more connected and highly adaptable access control systems. The ability to process data at the edge, integrate with enterprise-wide security platforms and support cloud-enabled management is reshaping expectations.

Intelligent controllers capable of running applications at the edge are redefining access control. By reducing reliance on external servers, this approach enhances system resilience, accelerates response times and enables real-time decision-making. Organizations can implement custom security logic directly within their infrastructure, creating dynamic, efficient solutions that evolve with their needs.

The Future Is Open

As technology advances, decision-makers must weigh the benefits of innovation against the risks of untested integrations and security gaps. Mercury’s 2025 Trends in Access Controllers Report highlights the need for controllers that deliver scalability, interoperability and cybersecurity. Access control is no longer just about opening doors. It will continue to play a growing role in protecting people, data and infrastructure across an increasingly connected world.

Download the full report here, or visit mercury-security.com to learn more.

“Open” is one of the most overused — and misunderstood — terms in access control. Walk through any industry trade show or read any product brochure and you’ll see it everywhere. But when every solution claims to be “open,” the word loses meaning and customers are left to navigate a maze of semi-compatible systems and incomplete integrations.

At its core, open access control is defined by adherence to industry standards. Open protocols like OSDP for secure reader communication, BACnet for building automation and MQTT for IoT are foundational to creating interoperable systems. These protocols establish a universal language, allowing devices from different manufacturers to communicate seamlessly without the limitations of proprietary systems.

However, true openness goes far beyond just protocols — it’s about offering real choice and flexibility. The strategic value of open architecture is the ability to integrate hardware, software and cloud services from different vendors and platforms rather than being artificially limited by proprietary boundaries. As a result, organizations can tailor the solution to their specific needs and adapt as new technology emerges. It requires long-term commitment to an environment where hardware, software and cloud services can work together across vendors, products and platforms.

Defining Openness in Access Control

An access control system built on open architecture creates a framework that supports broad interoperability across the full stack — edge devices, security controllers, software platforms, APIs and cloud environments.

Open doesn’t mean “anything goes.” It means consistent, secure and predictable interfaces that third parties can reliably build on. It requires well-defined SDKs and a structured developer ecosystem that enables rapid innovation without compromising security or stability. In access control, openness benefits from a controlled approach — providing APIs and tools to verified partners to ensure secure integration, maintain system integrity and prevent misuse that could introduce vulnerabilities.

Why Integration Matters More Than Ever

Security infrastructures are no longer isolated. They’re complex ecosystems that include access control, video surveillance, identity platforms, building management systems, IoT sensors and cloud services. These elements need to work together and the glue that holds them together is integration.

According to recent research by Mercury, 76% of access control professionals cite interoperability as a critical requirement. As organizations grow increasingly reliant on hybrid systems and distributed architectures, the ability to integrate is a baseline expectation.

Additionally, flexibility helps protect system investments by avoiding costly rip-and-replace cycles. Open architecture enables gradual upgrades, modular deployments and long-term scalability without starting over every few years.

The Economic and Strategic Value of Openness

Beyond technical flexibility, open architecture delivers tangible business benefits. By supporting multi-vendor environments, organizations can choose best-of-breed components rather than being locked into a single supplier. This competition fosters innovation, improves quality and reduces costs.

Open systems also make it easier to respond to change. Whether that’s integrating a new biometric reader, adding mobile credential support or connecting to a cloud-based identity platform, an open controller should provide the hooks to plug in and scale without disruption.

And because truly open platforms don’t rely on proprietary connectors or closed software stacks, they’re easier to maintain and future-proof. Organizations can shift strategies, vendors or technologies without rebuilding the entire infrastructure.

Enabling Intelligence at the Edge

New edge computing capabilities are a natural extension of the open-architecture vision. By pushing processing capabilities closer to the access point, edge-enabled systems reduce latency, support real-time decision-making and maintain continuity during network interruptions.

An open access control platform supports edge functionality by allowing third-party applications to run directly on controllers, integrating tightly with local sensors, readers and devices while maintaining compatibility with broader cloud and enterprise systems. This decentralization reinforces both security and flexibility, making edge computing a key part of an open, future-ready access control strategy.

Openness and Security: Not a Tradeoff

Some hesitate at the word “open,” associating it with increased risk. But openness and security are allies. In fact, the transparency and standardization that come with open architecture are key to building robust, secure systems.

Open protocols like OSDP support encrypted communication between readers and controllers. Published APIs allow for secure, audited integrations rather than ad-hoc connections. Modular architectures with signed apps and containerized environments give organizations control over what runs in their systems without compromising performance or reliability. These capabilities support secure, structured and standards-driven interoperability.

A Win-Win Approach to System Design

For system integrators, consultants and end users, the takeaway is clear: ask harder questions. If a vendor claims to be “open,” dig deeper. Do they support industry protocols? Can their controllers interface with third-party software and hardware without costly customization?

Look for evidence of real openness — support for non-proprietary interfaces, flexible upgrade paths and developer engagement. In access control, this represents a long-term strategy that determines how well a system will serve you over time.

In access control, the ability to integrate across technology solutions has become critical to security, flexibility and investment protection. True integration is only possible with a foundation of open architecture. As systems become more complex and expectations grow, the ability to integrate securely and flexibly is what sets future-ready platforms apart. At the end of the day, openness refers to specific technology characteristics, but it’s also an ethos focused on delivering freedom of choice, resilience in the face of change and the ability to innovate without limits.

Learn more about how Mercury embodies the principles of open architecture. Talk to an expert today.

For years, access control relied on static hardware — fixed-function controllers that required costly upgrades to support evolving security needs. Today, embedded applications transform access control into a software-driven, adaptable ecosystem.

Modern systems can reduce response times by enabling real-time controller processing, operating independently of network connections and seamlessly integrating with IoT and enterprise platforms. The Mercury embedded application environment drives this shift, allowing organizations to deploy custom applications directly on controllers while maintaining security, performance and interoperability.

A Shift to Software-Driven Security

Traditional access control focused on hardware, but advancements in IoT, AI-driven security analytics and cloud-based monitoring have made software a central component. The Mercury embedded application environment enables controllers to run custom software, update functionality remotely and process security events on-site. This approach reduces latency, enhances security and eliminates the need for constant reliance on cloud services.

Edge processing plays a key role in this evolution by ensuring security decisions happen locally. Access authentication, cybersecurity monitoring and automation workflows can now run directly on controllers, minimizing disruptions and improving response times. This capability extends beyond door control, allowing access systems to support occupancy tracking, adaptive security rules and compliance automation.

One of the key advantages of embedded applications is the ability to extend access control functionality beyond traditional PACS. Organizations increasingly integrate locks, elevators, IoT sensors and other solutions into access control workflows. This level of interoperability eliminates silos and enables access control to function as part of a broader security and operational strategy.

Building and Deploying Embedded Applications

With embedded applications running on access control controllers, development and deployment require a structured approach to ensure security and reliability. The Mercury embedded application environment includes a rigorous, step-by-step application development program that ensures all custom applications meet strict security and performance requirements before deployment. This structured process includes:

• Code validation to ensure applications meet security coding best practices

• Sandbox testing in isolated environments before deployment

• Secure deployment using secure boot to ensure only authorized, signed applications run on controllers

By enforcing these measures, the platform ensures that organizations can benefit from embedded applications without introducing security risks.

Security and Compliance at the Edge

Strong security protections are essential with controllers running applications outside of secure data centers. The Mercury embedded application environment includes secure boot to prevent tampering or unauthorized code execution and ensures that only vetted applications can be deployed. A structured development and deployment process requires applications to follow strict security standards, undergo multi-stage validation and use encryption for sensitive data.

Access control controllers also store and process highly sensitive data, including credential information, event logs and security policies. Without proper safeguards, poorly secured applications could expose this information. Strong encryption, role-based access controls and network security protocols ensure that embedded applications do not introduce risk.

By enforcing consistent security measures across all controllers, organizations can protect against unauthorized access, software vulnerabilities and inconsistent deployments. This approach ensures that embedded applications provide flexibility without compromising security.

Expanding the Role of Access Control

Embedded applications enable new security and operational use cases beyond traditional access management. Controllers can now support:

• Lock integration for server cabinets, protecting critical IT infrastructure

• Cyber hygiene monitoring, ensuring security compliance across connected systems

• Automated compliance tracking, restricting access based on real-time security policies

A retail chain, for example, could deploy an embedded application that dynamically adjusts store access rules based on business hours, emergency conditions or occupancy levels. A health care facility might use embedded applications to enforce strict access control in restricted zones, ensuring only authorized personnel can enter areas containing sensitive patient data or pharmaceuticals.

A Future-Ready Approach to Security

As organizations demand more flexible, scalable and secure access control, embedded applications are becoming essential. The Mercury embedded application environment provides a structured, security-first framework for deploying these applications, ensuring that organizations can adapt to new requirements without costly hardware replacements. The ability to customize security workflows, integrate IoT solutions and process data at the edge transforms access control from a basic security function into a critical component of enterprise security strategy.

This shift represents an opportunity for security professionals to optimize security, reduce infrastructure costs and automate access control decisions in ways that were not possible before. Organizations can future-proof their security systems by adopting software-driven controllers that provide continuous adaptability while maintaining strong security oversight.

As access control continues to evolve, embedded applications will play an even greater role in driving efficiency, improving security and enabling smarter, data-driven decision-making.

Access control has always been the backbone of physical security, but its role is expanding. As organizations demand tighter integration between physical and digital security, access control systems are evolving into intelligent security platforms that connect IoT devices, cybersecurity frameworks and enterprise-wide security policies.

Instead of simply granting or denying entry, modern access control is becoming a real-time security orchestrator, using embedded applications and edge computing to automate decision-making, improve response times and enhance system resilience.

The Rise of Access Control as a Security Intelligence Hub

Historically, access control was a closed-loop system — controllers operated independently, responding to credentials and issuing commands to locks. However, as security threats have grown more complex, organizations now require real-time security intelligence that extends beyond individual doors.

Access control is now expected to interact with video surveillance, environmental sensors, intrusion detection systems and identity management platforms, making it a central point for both physical and cybersecurity policy enforcement.

For example, an access control system can now detect and respond to suspicious activity by linking physical and digital security. If a cybersecurity platform flags a compromised user credential, the access control system can automatically disable physical access, preventing an insider threat.

Likewise, if an unauthorized access attempt is detected at a secure facility, the system can trigger video surveillance recording, alert security teams and lock down sensitive areas — all without requiring manual intervention.

The Role of Embedded Applications and Edge Processing

One of the key drivers of this transformation is the ability to run applications directly on intelligent controllers, eliminating the need to rely on external servers for decision-making. By processing data at the edge, access control systems can authenticate users, analyze security risks and automate responses instantly, even when network connectivity is limited.

Edge-based security applications enable controllers to:

• Monitor cyber hygiene by checking for outdated credentials, revoked user access or suspicious login attempts

• Enforce compliance policies by automatically adjusting access rules based on real-time conditions, such as occupancy limits or emergency protocols

• Reduce system downtime by ensuring access control remains operational even if cloud-based authentication services become unavailable

This shift improves efficiency and security and enables organizations to adapt their access control strategy without replacing hardware. With a structured application deployment framework, organizations can deploy new security functions, integrations and automation workflows through software updates, keeping their systems future-ready.

Challenges of an Interconnected Security Ecosystem

As access control integrates with IoT and cybersecurity frameworks, security teams must ensure new capabilities don’t introduce new vulnerabilities. The more interconnected a system is, the more important it is to enforce strict security controls at every level.

That is why a structured application development and deployment process are critical. Only vetted applications should be allowed to run on access control controllers, ensuring they meet secure coding standards, encryption protocols and compliance requirements. Secure boot mechanisms and role-based access controls prevent unauthorized software from being introduced, while encrypted communication channels protect sensitive data as they move between physical and digital security systems.

Without these safeguards, access control could become an entry point for cyberattacks rather than a security enforcement tool. Organizations that treat access control as part of their broader cybersecurity strategy rather than just a physical security tool will be better positioned to detect, prevent and respond to emerging threats.

The Future of Access Control as a Security Platform

As organizations continue to merge physical and cybersecurity strategies, access control will play an even larger role in enterprise security. With edge processing, embedded applications and real-time integrations, access control systems are evolving into security intelligence hubs capable of managing access, identity verification, compliance enforcement and automated threat responses.

This transformation offers significant advantages:

• Stronger security through automated, risk-based access control and real-time threat detection

• Greater efficiency by integrating with enterprise security platforms, reducing manual intervention

• Scalability and adaptability by supporting software-driven upgrades and third-party applications

Organizations that leverage access control as a dynamic security platform — rather than just a door management system — will be able to enhance security, improve compliance and reduce operational complexity in an increasingly interconnected world.

The physical security sector is significantly transforming by adopting open architecture and industry standards. This shift, led by industry leaders like Mercury, streamlines the integration of access control systems and ensures they can communicate more efficiently and securely across various platforms and devices.

The building automation industry has advanced faster with standard protocols for better integration and management. In contrast, the physical security sector is just beginning to catch up, with leaders like Mercury spearheading the push toward more open and standardized solutions. Not adopting these solutions can lead to system incompatibility, increased vulnerability to cyber threats and higher costs for system upgrades and maintenance.

Essential Industry Standards to Consider

Solutions supporting open industry standards fortify manageability, efficiency and interoperability, helping ensure systems meet today’s requirements and remain adaptable to future demands. Here are a few standards we at Mercury consider crucial to this goal:

Open Supervised Device Protocol (OSDP) is a communication standard for access control systems, enabling secure, bidirectional communication between devices like card readers and controllers. It includes features such as encryption and tamper monitoring. OSDP enhances system integration and management by allowing interoperability among different manufacturers’ equipment. This protocol is favored in modern settings for its real-time device updates and monitoring capabilities.

Message Queuing Telemetry Transport (MQTT) is a communication protocol tailored for devices with limited processing power in areas with slow and unreliable internet connections. It uses a publish-subscribe system, which is effective for remote control and monitoring. MQTT minimizes network bandwidth and device power, enabling reliable data transmission even under poor conditions. This protocol is especially valuable in physical security systems, allowing various IoT devices to share real-time updates and alerts across a network. MQTT’s simplicity and ease of implementation have made it popular in IoT applications.

Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP) is a commonly used protocol for managing and monitoring networks. It helps collect data and configure network devices like routers, switches and servers. SNMP works by exchanging information between network devices and management stations, allowing administrators to track network performance, identify faults and occasionally configure devices remotely. This protocol is essential in physical security systems for overseeing and maintaining the health of network-connected devices such as access controllers and surveillance cameras, ensuring they function effectively and react correctly to network events.

The Importance of Open Standards

Adopting open standards increases interoperability, enhances security and provides better flexibility. By supporting open protocols, systems can more easily integrate with legacy, modern and emerging technologies, avoiding vendor lock-in and technology obsolescence.

Open standards also foster a competitive market where innovation thrives. Companies can focus on improving functionality and features rather than dealing with compatibility issues, which often plague closed systems. This openness inevitably leads to better products and more robust solutions that benefit end users and integrators alike.

Thanks to Mercury’s commitment to open standards, our solutions integrate seamlessly with various devices and management systems. This compatibility simplifies installations and upgrades and enhances the overall security posture by allowing for comprehensive, cross-platform management.

Challenges in Adopting Open Standards

One of the main hurdles is the existing infrastructure that heavily relies on proprietary systems. Transitioning from these closed systems to open, standardized ones requires initial investments and a change in mindset from stakeholders.

Additionally, security faces unique challenges regarding data protection and cyber threats. As systems become more interconnected and reliant on open standards, they become potential cyberattack targets. Open standards must include stringent cybersecurity measures to protect data integrity and system reliability. At Mercury, we prioritize cybersecurity in our solutions, ensuring that our architecture remains secure and resilient despite evolving cyber threats.

We confront these challenges head-on by adopting open standards and emphasizing robust cybersecurity practices. Our solutions incorporate advanced encryption and adhere to stringent protocols, ensuring our architecture never compromises.

Leveraging Open Architecture for Future-Ready Solutions

As technology evolves and new threats emerge, adapting quickly is crucial. In the context of physical security systems, open architecture refers to a design approach that allows for easy integration and interoperability with other systems and devices. It provides the agility needed to upgrade and expand security systems without extensive overhauls, thereby protecting investments over the long term.

Open systems enable easier integration with emerging technologies like artificial intelligence and machine learning, which rely on extensive data and sophisticated algorithms to predict and neutralize threats. Standards-compliant systems are better suited to integrate these advancements efficiently.

Mercury’s approach exemplifies this forward-thinking strategy. Our commitment to open architecture ensures that our controllers and systems can adapt to technological changes, maintaining compatibility with existing and emerging technologies.

Leading the Way to a More Open Future

As the physical security industry evolves, adopting open architecture and standardized protocols will be pivotal in shaping its future. Mercury is proud to lead this transformation, providing solutions that meet today’s challenges and anticipate future needs. As organizations consider upgrading or installing new systems, choosing solutions prioritizing open standards and flexible architecture will ensure long-term resilience and efficiency.

For those looking to stay ahead in a rapidly changing landscape, consider how open architecture can enhance your strategy. Explore how solutions like those from Mercury can provide the protection, flexibility and readiness your organization needs.

Learn more about how Mercury ensures you have the solutions you need to keep your facilities secure today and tomorrow.

Openness has proven to be a winning approach in physical security systems. By easing integration and interoperability, open platforms empower businesses to build best-of-breed systems matched to their needs and adapt those systems in the future.

In addition to helping users today, this approach lays the groundwork for innovations in the access control space. The flexibility it provides enables industry leaders to partner and pioneer new solutions. It is a transformative foundation for collaboration, standardization and regulatory compliance.

Unlocking Innovation Through Partnership

As systems for access control, security and automation become increasingly complex and interconnected, the need for collaboration grows. The open future is one of constructive collaboration among industry leaders. Openness allows more systems to interact and create new functionality and simplicity for those who interact with them.

At Mercury, we embrace a collaborative approach, aiming to empower partners to offer advanced products that add value to existing access control systems. Instead of locking the doors, we open the marketplace to increase innovation and speed to market. We believe our customers will choose the ability to stay ahead of operational and security challenges by adopting the latest innovations.

Striving for Standards

Historically, one of the biggest challenges in access control has been the lack of standardized integrations. Each vendor had their proprietary protocols and interfaces, complicating the communication process among products from different manufacturers. While many vendors still prefer to offer proprietary solutions, this approach results in fragmented ecosystems and interoperability issues, hindering innovation and flexibility.

Open architecture is an intentional step away from this dynamic. One way we further the goal of standardization is through our technology partner program, which brings together manufacturers of related solutions. Together, we build standards that enable seamless communication between Mercury Controllers and third-party products.

Standards help everyone. For OEMs, they streamline integration, reducing development costs and time-to-market. Standards create a broader solution marketplace for customers, freeing them to choose the right components to meet specialized needs. For end users, standards drive the adoption of new features like mobile access and integrated authentication across locations and devices.

Simplifying Compliance

With the proliferation of cyber threats and the accompanying regulatory requirements related to network infrastructure and data protection, ensuring compliance with regulations is paramount. This is particularly true in regions like Europe, where stringent regulations such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) impose strict requirements on handling and processing personal data.

These regulations set up minimum security standards for products, placing demands on end-user networks. Access control products must align with regulatory requirements to uphold network security even as they change.

Open architecture provides the flexibility and agility to adapt to changing compliance standards. Mercury Controllers enable end users to make a single investment accommodating changing security requirements and application demands. Despite a variable regulatory landscape, open architecture promotes economical solutions for access control systems that are genuinely sustainable.

Enabling a Seamlessly Secure Workplace

Openness will benefit security in workplaces and other facilities by integrating different services seamlessly. Imagine a scenario where the controller is part of a connected ecosystem that bridges physical and digital security, connecting physical devices and hosts to enable automation, optimization and next-generation user experiences. In this way, open architecture makes access control systems an enabler of critical current and future scenarios such as:

• Universal access control: The access system uses technology to identify individuals and grant access to authorized areas, including parking, buildings, elevators, floors, offices, meeting rooms and shared spaces.
• Flexible workspaces: As companies adapt to the evolving needs of their workforce, shared workspaces with hot desks are becoming increasingly popular. With secure authentication, employees can enjoy a personalized workstation experience, promoting flexibility and productivity.
• Cashless payments: A secure and efficient payment system enables employees to buy in the cafeteria and at vending machines without needing cash or credit cards.
• Secure printing: Printers with advanced security features verify user identities, preventing unauthorized access to confidential information and company resources.
• Automatic time tracking: The access system automatically logs employee work hours when they enter or leave the building, ending the need for manual time tracking.
• Simple sign-in: Employees use a single set of credentials to access the building and company computers, including cloud-based applications 365. This simplified sign-in process enhances security and convenience.

Open standards enable integration of these capabilities based on unified identities, centralized management and updated security — all tailored to each organization’s needs.

A Vision for the Future

Openness and collaboration will shape the future of access control systems. Mercury aims to push the access control industry forward by championing open architecture. Businesses can thrive in an ever-changing security landscape through seamless integration and the flexibility to update systems as needed.

Collaboration adds value for our partner OEMs and those who work with access control systems daily. Through our partner program, standardized integrations accelerate product development and deployment. That means organizations can respond faster to changes in available technology and privacy regulations.

Open architecture ensures that security solutions evolve alongside business needs. With the flexibility to seamlessly integrate fresh solutions into existing access control systems, businesses can confidently support modernized security.

Learn more about how Mercury ensures you have the necessary solutions to secure your facilities today and tomorrow.