Mercury Security, an HID Global company known for its long-standing role in enabling open architecture access control systems, has introduced a new embedded application environment for its MP Controller platform. This strategic development allows OEMs and software partners to run custom applications directly on Mercury’s intelligent controllers, bringing logic processing to the edge and redefining how access control systems are deployed and integrated.
Originally launched in June 2024, Mercury’s MP Controllers have already made their mark by offering an adaptable hardware foundation that supports open standards and third-party integration. The new embedded app environment takes this proposition further, by enabling a decentralised, intelligent architecture—where decisions and logic can reside closer to the edge of the network, such as at the door or device level.
“This is a significant evolution in our platform,” said Steve Lucas, Vice President of Sales at Mercury Security. “We’re giving our technology partners the tools to innovate directly on our controllers. This opens the door to increased intelligence, speed, and interoperability—right where it’s needed.”
Traditionally, access control decisions have relied heavily on server-based processing. While this centralised model offers control and consistency, it often introduces latency, increases network dependency, and limits the system’s ability to respond independently at the edge. Mercury’s new approach aims to address these limitations by offering an embedded, real-time processing layer on the controller itself.
This development means controllers are no longer simple relay points between readers and access management software. Instead, they act as integration hubs, managing interactions across disparate devices and systems—whether elevators, sensors, cabinet locks or IoT modules.
An Embedded Ecosystem: App Showcase and Early Use Cases
Several partners have already developed certified applications to run on the Mercury embedded platform. These apps span both access control and broader IoT-related functionality:
- ASSA ABLOY HES KS210 Cabinet Lock App: This application provides streamlined integration with up to 32 OSDP-based cabinet locks, enabling secure server access without the need for custom development.
- HID pivCLASS: Now available on MP Controllers, this application brings Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) authentication directly to the door, supporting compliance with FIPS 201 and other government security mandates.
- SecuriThings: A system-level application that simplifies network device auditing. It delivers visibility into firmware status, network health, and compliance metrics—important in high-assurance environments.
- Viakoo: This SaaS platform ensures the health and security of connected devices, automating processes such as firmware updates, credential rotations and vulnerability remediation.
According to Daniel Gundlach, Vice President and Head of HID’s Physical Access Control Solutions business in North America, this new capability reflects a broader trend in the security sector. “We’re seeing the access control industry pivot towards smarter, distributed architectures. By embedding custom logic directly into controllers, partners can respond faster to evolving threats and operational demands—without having to overhaul entire systems,” he said.
Addressing Interoperability, Resilience and Cyber Readiness
A core strength of Mercury’s platform lies in its continued support for open standards including OSDP, MQTT and TLS. This ensures broad compatibility across hardware and software layers while addressing increasing concerns around cybersecurity, system uptime and vendor lock-in.
The embedded environment complements these capabilities by supporting lightweight applications that can run independently of a central server, enhancing fault tolerance and operational continuity. For mission-critical environments such as data centres, healthcare or government, this shift reduces risk and increases availability.
Looking Ahead
As physical security systems become more integrated with IT infrastructure and building management platforms, the ability to support edge-based intelligence is expected to become a key differentiator. Mercury’s new offering positions its OEM and integration partners to design highly responsive, adaptable systems without being constrained by proprietary limitations or network latency.
With over three decades of experience in access control hardware, Mercury continues to align its roadmap with the needs of an evolving market—where openness, scalability and cyber resilience are becoming the defining metrics for success.