HID’s Transparent Gateway Solves Europe's High-Security Compliance Challenge
HID has launched the HID M1 Transparent Gateway, a security module that sits between existing Open Supervised Device Protocol (OSDP) controllers and readers to perform all cryptographic operations in a secured location.
The gateway enables organizations to achieve transparent architecture compliance without the need to replace their existing physical access control infrastructure. High-security facilities across Europe increasingly face regulatory mandates requiring transparent architecture — a framework where cryptographic operations occur in physically secured locations rather than at vulnerable perimeter readers. For example, France's ANSSI (Agence nationale de la sécurité des systèmes d'information) CSPN certification already requires this approach, with similar frameworks under consideration in other countries.
Until now, organizations had limited options: deploy entirely new transparent architecture systems from the ground up or forgo opportunities in markets where these requirements apply. "Security teams should not have to choose between compliance and protecting their existing investments," said Jos Beernink, HID’s VP of Europe for PACS. "The HID M1 Transparent Gateway changes this. Organizations can now meet the most stringent transparent architecture requirements while continuing to use their current controllers, PACS software, and credentials. It's compliance without compromise.”
The HID M1 sits between existing OSDP controllers and readers, handling all transparent architecture cryptographic operations independently. From the PACS software's perspective, the controller continues communicating exactly as before. Each main node supports up to eight transparent HID Signo readers, with a dedicated key module storing encryption keys under sovereign organizational control. This eliminates cryptographic operations at perimeter readers, while meeting transparent architecture standards. Organizations maintain exclusive control over encryption keys through centralized administration via the HID Linq Key Manager.
The HID M1 enables incremental upgrades, so organizations can secure just the entry points that require transparent architecture, scaling up or down depending on security priorities and budget while preserving existing controller and PACS investments. Current MIFARE DESFire cards and HID Signo readers continue functioning; existing workflows, maintenance agreements, and staff training remain unchanged, so deployment requires zero downtime. An AI-capable processor enables future intelligent security capabilities, while software updates keep the system current as threats and compliance requirements evolve.
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