How important is scalability when it comes to providing effective cloud-based solutions?

Every organisation, building, or space has unique needs that evolve. In today’s turbulent economy, the ability to scale resources—both up and down—is essential for both end users and the integrators who provide these solutions.

Cloud technology addresses these challenges by managing everything off-site and utilising a subscription model. This arrangement allows you to easily add or remove hardware and features as necessary, adjusting your subscription to reflect those changes. In contrast, on-premise solutions often require lengthy waiting periods for license adjustments, which can be costly and offer limited customisation options, leaving you dependent on the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) for support.

It’s also important that manufacturers begin to shift towards a more flexible model, allowing for non-proprietary hardware on their solutions—at Keri, we’ve always offered support for Authentic Mercury, which works alongside our own hardware. Everything is OSDP, allowing for your own reader and credentialling combos.

While cloud-based solutions may have their critics and certain drawbacks, they undeniably provide the flexibility needed during periods of growth or downsizing. They also deliver significantly greater resilience and are more future-proof.

The importance of scalability extends beyond immediate needs; it also prepares you for what lies ahead. For us, ensuring scalability is all about empowering your growth story securely and efficiently—without any limits.

What have been some major milestones for Keri Systems in 2024?

The Borealis Connect app enhances our cloud offerings by providing users with a convenient way to manage their systems on the go. This application works alongside our Borealis cloud product, allowing users to control their systems from their mobile devices easily. It also enhances installation speed for installers and integrators by importing hardware by scanning the QR code on the controller.

What technology trends are you keeping an eye on as you look ahead to 2025?

This year, security technology trends are rapidly changing, becoming both smarter and more comprehensive. The trend toward cloud migration is expected to continue, moving towards a serverless architecture, which, of course, can be a good thing.

By adopting cloud technologies, organisations can reduce their reliance on on-premise servers and the need to remember to back up data regularly. The cloud approach allows for the implementation of more agile security systems that are easier to manage, easier to access, and scale as needed, while also providing a more robust data recovery strategy.

This shift is driving significant innovation, particularly in areas such as cloud video analytics and cloud access control platforms. New technologies are being developed to help organisations protect their people, property, and assets. For instance, environmental sensors can monitor more than just visible threats; they can detect vape, gas, temperature, light, and other environmental conditions. This allows for a more holistic approach to security, enabling proactive threat detection and mitigation.

As technology manufacturers continuously expand their product offerings and introduce new solutions with enhanced capabilities designed for the cloud, we can expect further advancements and breakthroughs in the security technology landscape.

Reflecting 2024: A Year Of Innovation and Progress

As we close the chapter on 2024, we look back with pride at the milestones Keri Systems has achieved. This year was marked by groundbreaking innovation, strengthened partnerships, and an unwavering focus on providing cutting-edge access control solutions. Here’s a recap of the highlights that defined our year:

Borealis Connect: Access Control On The Go

This year, we launched Borealis Connect, an intuitive companion app for our cloud-hosted access control solution. Available on Android and iOS, the app empowers users with seamless control at their fingertips.

• Manage user credentials with ease.
• Lock and unlock doors remotely.
• Import controllers via QR code scanning.
• Receive instant push notifications

API Integration

This year we introduced API integration. This feature enables screened dealers or integrators to access specific portions of the Borealis API, facilitating seamless integration with user applications. Access to the API requires a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA), and both the vendor and project must be approved by Keri management.

Elevator Control Now Available in Borealis

In 2024, we introduced Elevator Control to Borealis, enabling users to configure elevator floor access with ease, similar to Doors.NET. This relay-based feature is compatible with NXT-MSC controllers and Authentic Mercury hardware, providing seamless integration for enhanced access control.

Automation Rules For Extended Functionality

In 2024, we introduced Elevator Control to Borealis, enabling users to configure elevator floor access with ease, similar to Doors.NET. This relay-based feature is compatible with NXT-MSC controllers and Authentic Mercury hardware, providing seamless integration for enhanced access control.

Streamlined Doors.NET Licensing

To better serve our customers, we revamped the Doors.NET license tiers, eliminating service maintenance agreements and annual fees. Customers now enjoy a simpler, more cost-effective licensing structure with continued expert support.

Celebrating Tim Russell’s Growth

This year, Tim Russell took on a new role as our IPP Program Manager, supporting IPP dealers and driving the program forward. His dedication and leadership have been instrumental in strengthening relationships with our IPP customers.

We Welcomed Jeff Back To The Team!

This year, we proudly welcomed Jeff back to Keri Systems as a Technical Sales Support Specialist. A familiar face from his years in technical support (2008–2020), Jeff rejoined us to support the South and Midwest regions, bringing his expertise and dedication to ensure customer success. It’s team members like Jeff who make Keri Systems exceptional!

Showcasing Innovation at ISC East & West

Keri Systems had a strong presence at ISC East and West 2024, highlighting our comprehensive access control solutions. With over 19,000 attendees at ISC West, we showcased our cloud-based and on-premises systems, demonstrating the flexibility to deploy both using the same hardware.

As we look ahead to 2025, we remain committed to delivering exceptional products, unparalleled support, and continued innovation in access control technology. Thank you for being a part of our journey this year. Here’s to an even more successful 2025!

Monthly Borealis Release: December Update

Here’s what’s new in the December Borealis release:

Hub Management Improvements

The Hub Management Improvements introduces a range of powerful new features designed to enhance control, efficiency, and visibility across hubs. Key enhancements include new options for restarting services, resetting hubs, and syncing data with greater precision. Operators can now monitor real-time status updates, receive alerts for hub suspension, and track critical sync details. The hub management improvements also adds smart and full sync options for optimized data management and improved system performance, with additional safeguards to prevent sync conflicts and ensure seamless operations.

New System Grace Period

New systems enter a Setup period when the system will be fully functional without payment for 7 days. Each time a user logs into Borealis they will see a notification that the system is within the setup period and will state how many System Setup days remain. If payment is not made, the hub will become suspended after the setup period and changes made after that time will not go out to controllers.

Bug Fixes and User Interface Enhancements

Corrected a configuration issue where it was not possible to edit the default TCP/IP port number (10001) for a LAN-520 connected to a PXL controller.

Corrected a refresh issue where the hub status would continue to show online (on the hub screen) if the hub was disconnected. User had to refresh the screen to display the correct offline status.

Corrected an issue where the REX 2 operating mode was not displaying on the reader properties after the REX 2 function was assigned to an input.

Corrected the default description for the REX 1 located on bus 2. The default
description stated bus 1.

Get Ready for The Security Event 2025!

Keri Systems is thrilled to announce that we’ll be exhibiting at The Security Event 2025, taking place April 8th–10th at the NEC Birmingham. We’re gearing up to showcase our game-changing advancements in access control technology and can’t wait to share them with you.

This year, we’re introducing upgrades to our Borealis Cloud-Based Access Control Platform alongside our cutting-edge Aurora Readers and innovative Wireless Locks. Come experience how we’re shaping the future of security solutions with features designed for flexibility, reliability, and scalability.

M-Tech Aurora Readers – A New Era in Access Control (Europe Exclusive)

The M-Tech Aurora Readers are here to redefine the standards of modern access control. These sleek, durable, and high-security readers deliver unmatched performance across any installation environment.

Supports Leading Technologies: RFID MIFARE® DESFire® EV2/EV3, NFC (HCE), and Bluetooth® Low Energy for mobile credentials.

Customizable Features: Add a touchscreen, keypad, QR code reader, long-range functionality, or biometric modules to suit any need.

Built for Scalability: Designed to grow with your requirements, ensuring your system evolves as you do.

Smarter Integrations with Mercury Hardware

Our Borealis platform now seamlessly supports authentic Mercury LP and EP controllers, along with their single-door, dual-door, and I/O modules. With expanded OSDP reader compatibility, your system setup is more flexible and future-proof than ever.

Let’s Connect at The Security Event 2025!

We’re excited to welcome you to our stand at The Security Event this April. Whether you’re curious about the latest in access control or looking for tailored solutions for your business, our expert team will be there to answer your questions and explore new possibilities together.

Don’t miss your chance to see the future of access control in action. Make plans to visit Keri Systems at The Security Event 2025, and let’s build the next generation of security, together.

Join Keri Systems at ISC East 2024

We’re thrilled to announce that Keri Systems will be exhibiting at ISC East 2024, where we’ll showcase our latest advancements in access control technology! Mark your calendars for November 19th to November 21st at the Javits Center in New York City. This premier security industry event is an excellent opportunity for professionals to network, discover groundbreaking solutions, and engage with the newest innovations in access control.

Discover Keri Systems’ Latest Innovations

You’ll find demonstrations of our latest products at our booth, including our Borealis cloud-based access control platform and our newly released KB Controllers. As always, we aim to deliver powerful, easy-to-manage solutions that enhance security and simplify access control management for enterprises of all sizes.

Borealis: Cloud-Based Access Control for Today’s Security Needs

Our Borealis platform is a cutting-edge, cloud-based access control solution that combines flexibility, security, and ease of use. With Borealis, users can manage their access control systems from anywhere, at any time, directly through the cloud, eliminating the need for onsite servers or complex IT configurations. Borealis provides a range of advantages, including:

Remote Access Control Management: Allowing security personnel to monitor, manage, and control access across multiple sites from any location.

Scalability for Businesses of All Sizes: Borealis is designed to grow with your business, making it a fit for small offices as well as expansive multi-location enterprises.

Enhanced Security Features: Borealis ensures secure data storage and transfer, giving businesses peace of mind that their access control data is protected.

Easy Integration with KB and NXT-MSC Controllers: Borealis works seamlessly with our new KB Controllers as well as our trusted NXT-MSC line, providing a cohesive access control solution.

Visit our booth for a live demonstration of Borealis, and see how this platform is transforming access control for businesses around the world.

Introducing Our New KB Controllers

We are proud to debut our KB Controllers at ISC East 2024. These controllers have been designed specifically for the Borealis platform, bringing enhanced flexibility and powerful performance to our access control solutions. With quick, streamlined installation and a user-friendly design, KB Controllers provide the ideal solution for organizations looking for efficient, reliable access control. Key benefits of the KB Controllers include:

Optimized for Cloud Integration: Purpose-built to work with Borealis, the KB Controllers allow for fast, secure data processing directly with the cloud.

Enhanced Security Capabilities: These controllers are equipped with advanced security features to prevent unauthorized access, providing an added layer of protection for any facility.

Simplified Maintenance and Setup: With fewer moving parts and easy-to-navigate configuration, KB Controllers are designed for straightforward installation and minimal ongoing maintenance.

Come to our booth to see the KB Controllers up close and learn how they can simplify and strengthen your security systems.

The NXT-MSC Series: Trusted Access Control Solutions

In addition to our cloud-based offerings, we will also feature our well-known NXT-MSC Series Controllers. These controllers provide a robust, scalable option for a wide range of facilities. The NXT-MSC Series integrates seamlessly with both Borealis and on-premise solutions, making it an ideal choice for organizations looking for versatility and reliability in their access control systems.

Why Visit Keri Systems at ISC East 2024?

At ISC East, you’ll have a unique opportunity to explore how our solutions, from Borealis and KB Controllers to the NXT-MSC Series, can address your security needs. Our team of experts will be on hand to answer questions, provide personalized demos, and discuss how Keri Systems can support your organization’s specific security requirements.

Visit us at Booth #824 to meet our team, discover our product lineup, and learn more about how Keri Systems is shaping the future of access control.

Don’t miss this opportunity to see how Keri Systems’ innovative solutions can elevate your security strategy. We look forward to seeing you at ISC East 2024!

Monthly Borealis Release: October Update

Here’s what’s new in the October Borealis release:

Bug Fixes

Cardholder custom field values were not being retained after closing and re-opening cardholder records.

Corrected a display issue with changes made to hardware settings via Hardware >> All the modified settings were not being displayed until the page had been refreshed.

Corrected an issue where transaction reports were not being filtered on a per-site basis.

Corrected a notification issue where a user, added to multiple systems, would not see new Borealis notifications on all their systems.

Resolved a reader access filter issue where the returned list of readers may have been truncated on a system that has greater than 30 readers.

Improved the speed of data retrieval of transaction reports where the system has several hundred-thousand stored transactions, or more.

Monthly Borealis Release: August Update

In the latest August Borealis release, we are introducing several new key features to enhance the functionality of Borealis.

1.0 What’s New?

We are excited to announce our latest update, which brings valuable changes to enhance your Borealis Cloud experience, including KB Controllers, Bug Fixes and User Interface Enhancements.

2.0 KB Controllers

The August release of Borealis includes the new, entry-level, cost-effective KB 2 door
and 4 door controllers. This controller type includes all the essential access control
functionality that you would expect, as well as advanced features, such as: Card + PIN
(when using keypads), Lockout and Lockdown reader modes and I/O control (when
using NXT 4×4 modules). The KB controllers can co-exist on the same site as Standard
NXT controllers and can communicate with the same hub. Standard NXT controllers
can also be replaced with KB controllers.

Note: The KB controller is designed to work exclusively with Borealis.

3.0 Bug Fixes and User Interface Enhancements

Corrected an issue where transaction reports would crash if the report included
Switch Tech device events with an alphanumeric Switch Tech card number.

Corrected a display issue where Switch Tech credentials was incorrectly listed as
an available option for credential block enroll.

Resolved a filtering issue with transaction reports where it was not possible to
apply the filter to a specific site.

Optimized the display of the System Setup form when using a mobile device.

Optimized the display of hub online/offline event information in transaction
reports.

Introducing our new Borealis KB Controllers

We are excited to announce our new KB Controllers, designed exclusively for Borealis to make cloud adoption easy.

For smaller solutions that are more “price-conscious” than “feature-conscious” our new simplified KB-Controllers are the perfect solution

Add hardware in a flash!

Scan the embedded QR code on the Controller and Import it right into your Borealis solution in seconds.

• Import hardware lightning fast
• Configure controllers from any device
• Log-in and service from anywhere
• Single login for dealers
• Reduce truck rolls for service calls

What are the benefits of KB Controllers?

Simple Management:

Modern, browser-based interface—no extra software or SQL required

Built Off the Time Proven NXT Series Platform:

Designed to be extremely intelligent with on-board decision making

Easy Programming and Minimal Training Costs:

Extremely easy and intuitive system setup with Keri Connect app

Cloud-Ready & Cost-Effective:

Easy adoption of cloud access control for Borealis systems
 

Scalable & Easy Setup:

Easy and quick connection to the cloud

Features include:

• Borealis Connect App – QR code controller enrollment – Scan and go
• On-board TCP/IP connectivity – no network adapters required
• Utilize existing LAN/WAN/Ethernet or pull your own dedicated CAT-5/6 network
• Embedded MAC address for easy controller importing
• Re-assignable inputs and outputs
• Quick disconnect connectors
• 10,000 Cardholders, 10,000 Event Buffer

Want to learn more about KB Controllers?

Monthly Borealis Release: July Update

In the latest July Borealis release, we are introducing several new key features to enhance the functionality of Borealis.

1.0 What’s New?

We are excited to announce our latest update, which brings valuable changes to enhance your Borealis Cloud experience, including UI Improvements, various Bug Fixes, and the latest firmware for the NXT-MSC Controller.

2.0 Bug Fixes & User Interface Enhancements

Optimized data retrieval and memory usage for systems that are configured for Elevator Control.

An additional Credential Type field has been added to the Create Credential form. This allows Switch Tech or Borealis credential types to be enrolled and the selection defaults to Borealis credential types.

Optimized the connectivity, status and data querying of the Sync Service.

An issue was corrected where cardholder custom field data was not displaying for exported cardholder reports.

Optimized the data retrieval and display of transaction reports, particularly for large system transaction databases.

Optimized and generally improved the retrieval and display of real-time hardware status on Hardware >> All screen.

Corrected a display issue where the PXL controllers were missing from the hardware type filter on the Readers screen.

Corrected a display issue where an Authentic Mercury reader was still displaying on the Hardware >> All hardware tree after being deleted.

Corrected a Panel status issue where an Onboard DDM was not showing as offline if the hub was offline.

3.0 NXT-MSC Controller Latest Firmware

MSC controller firmware v1.296 addresses the following issue:

Corrects 4×4 elevator control relay mapping issue.

Note: If you are using MSC controller firmware v1.294 and are NOT using elevator
control, there is no need to update your firmware.

4.0 Compatibility

NXT-MSC Controllers with firmware v1.294 and v1.296 are compatible
with the following:

NXT Readers – 4.00.03 or greater
Reader Interface Modules (RIMs) – 3.03.21 or greater
4×4 I/O Module – 3.00.03

Note: NXT Controllers are compatible with MS readers, 26-Bit Wiegand readers, and
non-26-Bit Wiegand readers only when connected via an NXT-RIM.