They’ve finally arrived. Mercury has released its MP-series controllers. These sleek panels take security to the next level, providing IT and security teams with the highest existing cybersecurity protection.
As the leading manufacturer of non-proprietary hardware in the security industry, Mercury has delivered major upgrades to the MP panels’ cryptology, including the transition from FIPS 140-2 to 140-3. This upgrade means the panels will meet the latest requirements set forth earlier this year by the U.S. Federal Government. They also feature significant changes to encryption. The Mercury MP controllers now use TLS 1.3 for data in transit (an upgrade from Mercury’s LP use of TLS 1.2) as well as AES-256/128 for data-at-rest encryption.
Simply put, IT and security teams can build an access control system that is both flexible and easily scalable, while also including the latest cybersecurity and network access control protocols.
Before we investigate how the Mercury MP series supercharges commercial access control, let’s get a high-level look at its features.
Overview: What are the Benefits of a Mercury MP Controller?
Mercury, a subsidiary of HID Global, has been developing security and access control hardware since 1992. Currently the company claims to have sold over 5 million controllers worldwide. The MP series is the latest generation with its previous generations being the Mercury LP, AP and EP controllers.
Let’s look at some of the benefits of choosing Mercury MP controllers.
- Open Architecture: You can easily integrate with third-party security cameras, motion sensors, door readers, locks and more. No need to pay for expensive, new hardware.
- Cardholder Capacity: 2 million (MP4502 panel), 600,000 (MP2500), 240,000 (MP1502 and MP1501)
- Input/Output Support: Up to 1024 inputs/1024 outputs (MP4502)
- Hardware Support: Supports 4 readers and 2 openings with the ability to scale to 64 access points.
- Cybersecurity: TLS 1.2/1.3, IPv4/6, or AES-256, 802.1X
- Cryptography: FIPS 140-3 user of OpenSSL
What Controllers are in the Mercury MP Line?
MP series features four unique panels. Below, we’ve broken their specs down by panel type.
- MP1501
- 240,000 cardholder capacity
- Supports up to 130 inputs and 130 outputs.
- Natively supports up to 2 readers and 1 opening, expands to 17 readers/openings.
- IPv4/6, TLS 1.2/1.3 or AES-256/128, 802.1X
- FIPS 140-3 user of OpenSSL
- MP1502
- 240,000 cardholder capacity
- Supports up to 520 inputs and 516 outputs
- Natively supports up to 4 readers and 2 openings, expands to 64 readers/openings
- IPv4/6, TLS 1.2/1.3 or AES-256/128, 802.1X
- FIPS 140-3 user of OpenSSL
- MP2500
- 600,000 cardholder capacity
- Supports up to 1,024 inputs and 1,024 outputs
- Natively does not support any readers or openings
- IPv4/6, TLS 1.2/1.3, 802.1X
- FIPS 140-3 user of OpenSSL
- MP4502
- 2,000,000 cardholder capacity
- Supports up to 1024 inputs and 1024 outputs
- Natively supports up to 4 readers and 2 openings, expands to 64 readers/openings
- IPv4/6, TLS 1.2/1.3 or AES-256/128, 802.1X
- FIPS 140-3 user of OpenSSL
One of the most notable physical changes between the LP series and MP series is color. The LP series was known among those in the industry for its striking fire engine red color. Mercury decided to put a modern twist on the MP series, with a sleek, black look.
The Mercury MP controllers offer significant updates in cybersecurity and cryptography. We’ll discuss this later in the article. However, for those IT and security professionals looking to purchase access control hardware, it’s important to understand the most beneficial aspect of Mercury’s hardware – their dedication to open architecture.
What is Open Architecture?
Open architecture is designed to give users flexibility and interoperability. In other words, you can customize your security system so that it matches your exact needs. Open architecture lets you invest in the software and hardware you’ll use.
Mercury MP controllers give teams the freedom to create an access control system that connects with your favorite third-party hardware, like surveillance cameras, sensors, readers and locks.
MP Controllers and Open Architecture
There are three primary reasons to look for controllers that use open architecture.
1. Open Access Control and Future Proofing
Consider how security has evolved over the last five years. There are more security teams using cloud-based systems than ever before. Entering your building or office no longer means scanning a plastic key card, instead you can use your smartphone. Surveillance cameras are appearing on public streets, and it seems like everybody has a Ring.
So, what does that mean for the future? It means the security landscape is changing quickly. With such rapid change, the ability to adapt is important. Nobody wants to jeopardize their security.
Mercury MP controllers use open architecture to allow businesses to stay nimble. As new security problems occur, you and your team can easily adjust. Futureproofing reduces the risk of your system becoming obsolete and helps avoid costly rip-and-replace upgrades.
2. Scalability
Whether you’re managing a single building or a global portfolio, scalability is key. Open architecture provides the flexibility to expand your system as your security needs grow. The MP Mercury boards are designed to handle increased demands, whether you’re adding more doors, zones, or integrating new security protocols.
3. Beware of Proprietary Hardware Costs
Internet service providers – don’t you love ‘em? They show up late, charge you installation fees even though your house is already internet-ready, then jack up your bill every year just for fun.
Too bad they’re the only providers in your area, huh?
Proprietary systems lock you into using one manufacturer’s products. If the cost goes up, you’re on the hook. If the manufacturer doesn’t keep their hardware up to date, you’re still paying.
On the other hand, open architecture allows you to shop around for the hardware and software that meets your budget without sacrificing quality or functionality.
What’s that? You really like Company XYZ’s video management system?
Well, you can connect that to your Mercury MP 2500 board. If Company XYZ ever gets too expensive or their technology becomes too antiquated, you can quickly pivot to another system.
Mercury’s MP boards are compatible with various access control systems, video surveillance platforms, and other security technologies. This seamless integration enhances overall security by ensuring that all parts of your system can communicate and function together efficiently.
Integrating Your Security with Open Architecture
Open architecture gives IT and security teams the ability to integrate their access control with a wide range of third-party hardware and software.
A common use case of open architecture is the integration of third-party video surveillance and access control.
Genea and Mercury can work with a variety of popular video systems, like:
Mercury Controllers vs. Proprietary Controllers
When it comes to access control, one of most important decisions IT and security teams is whether to use proprietary or non-proprietary hardware.
Many cloud-based access control manufacturers, including brands like Verkada, Kisi, Butterflymx and Brivo use proprietary hardware. That can be a problem.
Proprietary systems lock you into using only specific products developed by the manufacturer. So, if you select a Brivo system, then or software, open architecture allows you to mix and match, customizing a solution that best fits your security needs.
Major Updates to Cybersecurity
Your physical security is only as good as the cyber security protecting it. Keeping your cybersecurity updated and in compliance is essential to the wellbeing of your company. Mercury’s MP series brings IT and security teams updated FIPS and TLS protocols.
What is FIPS 140-3?
The Federal Information Processing Standards (FIPS) are the standards developed and used by the U.S. federal government as it pertains to computer systems and software (i.e. cybersecurity). To better address new cyber threats and the vulnerabilities that accompany them, the U.S. transitioned from FIPS 140-2 to FIPS 140-3 cryptography in 2024.
FIPS 140-3 is more stringent security at every stage of cryptographic module’s creation – from design to implementation.
Strengthening Security with TLS 1.3
Mercury’s MP boards also leverage the latest TLS 1.3 protocol to ensure data security in transit. TLS (Transport Layer Security) 1.3 is the most advanced version of this cryptographic protocol, offering faster speeds, enhanced encryption, and improved privacy.
Unless you’re operating in an agency within the federal government, FIPS-140-3 is just something nice to have. However, migrating to it now rather than later means you’ll be following best practices.
The Benefits of TLS 1.3
Faster and More Efficient: TLS 1.3 significantly reduces latency by requiring fewer handshake steps between systems, which allows faster, more efficient communication. This speed is crucial for large-scale operations where performance needs to be optimal.
Greater Security: TLS 1.3 improves upon its predecessor by eliminating outdated and vulnerable cryptographic algorithms. Its encryption ensures that even if a hacker gains access to data in transit, future interactions remain protected.
Improved Privacy: By concealing more of the handshake process, TLS 1.3 minimizes the potential for third-party observers to gain any sensitive information, making it ideal for securing communications between devices in the access control ecosystem.
The addition of TLS 1.3 with Mercury MP controllers ensures secure communication, providing peace of mind that sensitive access control data is always protected from interception or tampering.
The Role of AES-256/128 Encryption
Another vital aspect of the Mercury MP boards is their use of AES-256 and AES-128 encryption to protect data at rest and in transit.
Known for its exceptional security, AES-256 encryption uses a 256-bit key to secure sensitive data, making it virtually impossible for hackers to decrypt without the correct key. This level of encryption is trusted by government agencies, financial institutions and organizations requiring the highest level of data protection.
Both encryption standards help safeguard user credentials, access logs, and other sensitive information handled by the MP Mercury boards, ensuring that even in the event of a security breach, the data remains inaccessible to unauthorized individuals.
Mercury MP Boards: The Future of Access Control
Genea customers can now use the MP series with Genea Security. Users will have the freedom of open architecture, coupled with the latest encryption protocols, to enhance both performance and protection. Whether you’re securing a small business with four access points or a global enterprise, you’ll have the tools you need to build a flexible, and scalable access control system for the future.
By embracing open architecture and integrating advanced security protocols like TLS 1.3 and AES-256/128, Mercury boards provide a future-proof access control solution designed to evolve with your security needs.
Ready to see for yourself? See how Mercury MP door controllers and Genea Security work together to prepare IT and security teams for the future.
