From Physical Keycards to Mobile Wallet Credentials: Scaling Security for Future Growth.

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Modernizing Access Control: From Physical Cards to Mobile Wallet Credentials

Physical access control systems - such as proximity cards (Prox cards) and ID badges - have long served as the primary infrastructure of enterprise security. However, these physical cards are increasingly vulnerable to cloning, fraud, and loss, especially in large organizations managing sensitive data and complex infrastructures. 

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Prox cards, in particular, can be easily duplicated with low-cost tools, creating serious security risks for both physical and digital security. As security threats evolve, enterprises increasingly adopt comprehensive mobile access control solutions that leverage NFC wallet technology and digital identity management tools to enhance security, streamline compliance, and optimize access control. A key benefit of these modern systems is the ability to remotely manage and own credentials internally while maintaining interoperability across device manufacturers. 

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A Global Tech Company in Need of a Scalable, Credential-Driven System

A large, multinational technology company with hundreds of thousands of employees and offices worldwide faced increasing challenges with its legacy security system and the need for manual updates.

The company’s growth—fueled by rapid expansion and acquisitions—introduced greater complexity in managing mobile wallet credentials across locations. The existing system relied on physical cards costing $10–$15 each, with added logistical burdens of manual configuration, printing, and distribution. The organization needed a more secure, cost-effective, and scalable solution to:

• Protect both physical and digital assets
• Reduce manual operational complexity
• Own their mobile wallet credentials
• Maintain flexibility to scale across global locations

Because a complete infrastructure overhaul was not feasible or affordable, the company sought a phased upgrade to leverage existing infrastructure while enabling integration with other hardware providers.

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Flexible, Interoperable Access Control with Wavelynx

To address these challenges, the company partnered with Wavelynx, gaining access to a broad ecosystem of interoperable partners and technologies. The core objective? To own and control its mobile wallet credentials while deploying a security system that could scale with the business's needs and evolve alongside emerging technologies.

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The migration from physical cards to encrypted mobile wallet credentials significantly enhanced security and eliminated vulnerabilities such as Prox card cloning or unauthorized access. Wavelynx’s solution enabled an omni-credential experience, allowing employees to use a single credential to:

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• Access secure areas and office buildings
• Use printers and shared resources
• Log in to systems, like servers or alarms with multi-factor authentication

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With Wavelynx as the interoperable standard for device and key management, the company executed a strategic, phased migration across physical access, print security, mobile wallet credentials, and logical access control. The IT and physical security teams collaborated closely to ensure a smooth transition and minimize operational disruption for the company

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Security, Control and Operational Efficiency

The partnership with Wavelynx delivered immediate and long-term benefits, including:

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• Complete remote control over mobile wallet credentials, enabling customized security protocols from afar
• Streamlined integration with existing security systems, reducing cost and complexity while improving efficiency
• Advanced encryption and monitoring for stronger protection against unauthorized access and data breaches

This new level of control allows the company to adapt its security policies as technology needs evolve without being locked into limited functionality by other third-party providers.

Powering a Secure Ecosystem Through Interoperability

A major advantage of Wavelynx’s approach is its accessibility and membership within the LEAF Community. By bringing in a member of the LEAF Community, the global technology company gained access to a broad range of compatible devices and technologies that work seamlessly together. This simplified integration reduced reliance on siloed systems and enhanced security.

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The result? A modernized infrastructure that’s not only easier to manage but also ready for what’s next in access control and identity management.

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Scalability that Supports Ongoing Growth

As the company continued to expand across geographies and business units, Wavelynx’s solution scaled seamlessly to meet new demands. The mobile wallet credential system made it easy to:

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• Remotely implement access across multiple departments and regions
• Update and track credentials in real-time, regardless of employee location
• Expand infrastructure without major new investments in hardware

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This agility has been essential for supporting acquisitions, onboarding new employees, and aligning security across a globally distributed workforce.

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Paving the Way for the Future of Enterprise Security

The collaboration between this global technology company and Wavelynx marks a pivotal shift in how modern enterprises approach access control. By transitioning to mobile wallet credentials, encrypted credentials, and adopting a flexible, scalable infrastructure, the company strengthened its security posture. This move also improved operational efficiency and gave the company full control over its access control ecosystem.

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This case study highlights the growing need for accessible, secure, and scalable access control solutions in a digital-first world. As organizations face increasing threats and complex solutions, Wavelynx offers an iterative approach to migration that enables enterprises to stay ahead securely and efficiently.

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