Leaf Wallet Credentials - The Future of Open Secure Access Control

At The Security Event 2025 at the NEC in Birmingham, Wavelynx stepped forward with a bold message. During an on-stand interview, Joe Page of Wavelynx explained how Leaf Credentials are removing complexity from the access control world and replacing it with clarity, interoperability and simplicity.

"The credential model for years has been a bit of a pain… a nightmare for customers, a nightmare for enterprises. And we are trying to simplify that." Joe Page, Wavelynx

Moving Beyond Proprietary Readers

The show was packed with access reader solutions but Wavelynx stood out for its open, non-proprietary approach. Joe made it clear that their vision is to allow customers to choose their preferred systems and credentials rather than being tied into one brand.

"We are not trying to stay in the proprietary credentials arena… we try to centralise and give choice." 

Wavelynx readers support a wide range of technologies including:

• Smart cards
• NFC
• BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy)
• Apple Wallet
• Google Wallet
• Samsung Wallet

This makes them a versatile choice for integrators and end users who need flexibility now and in the future.

The rise of Wallet-based access credentials

One of the most talked about topics at the event was mobile wallet credentials. From Apple Wallet to Android and Samsung, Joe explained how these technologies are growing fast in popularity and performance.

What is Leaf?

Leaf is an open credentialing standard developed by the Leaf Community, a group of leading access control manufacturers. It provides a universal, interoperable format for secure physical and logical access using smart cards, mobile devices, and digital wallets. Leaf is built on industry standards, including MiFare DESFire technology, and supports both card-based and mobile wallet credentials.

Unlike proprietary access systems, Leaf is designed to eliminate vendor lock-in. It allows users to issue and manage credentials that are compatible with multiple brands and systems right out of the box. This means businesses can use one universal credential across elevators, doors, intercoms, parking, and logical systems such as network and email access.

Leaf credentials are highly secure, compliant with PIV and FIDO2 standards, and designed for long-term use. Each credential has a unique ID for authentication and supports features such as multi-factor authentication, NFC, and biometric integration. With both physical and digital formats available, Leaf simplifies credential management while maintaining the highest levels of security and flexibility.

Top 5 Reasons to Use Leaf Wallet

1. True Interoperability
Leaf Wallet credentials are compatible with a wide range of LEAF-compliant readers and systems. You can deploy them across different buildings and hardware without needing to reissue cards or replace infrastructure.

2. Enhanced Security
Built on EAL 5+ certified MiFare DESFire technology, Leaf credentials include features such as encrypted authentication, guaranteed unique badge IDs, and support for biometric and multi-factor authentication.

3. Simplified Enrollment and Management
The Leaf Wallet enables quick digital issuance and integration. Credentials can be deployed through CSV uploads or mobile wallet passes, streamlining the enrollment process and reducing administrative costs.

4. One Credential for Everything
Leaf supports both physical and logical access. A single Leaf Wallet can be used for building entry, computer login, document signing, email authentication, and more.

5. Future-Proof and Standards-Based
Leaf is compliant with open standards like FIDO2 and supports mobile wallet integration across Apple, Google, and Samsung platforms. It enables Zero Trust security frameworks and adapts to new technologies as they emerge.

By comparison mobile wallet credentials offer:

• Greater security
• Simpler user experience
• Instant digital issuance
• Compatibility across phone platforms

Introducing Leaf Credentials

Leaf Credentials are part of a larger initiative known as the Leaf Community. Founded by Wavelynx and other leading access control brands the community’s goal is to make credentials open interoperable and easy to manage.

"The whole purpose of the community is to bring credentials to market where you do not need tokens you do not need all these things." Joe Page

Leaf Credentials offer a single format that works across different devices, systems and brands. They eliminate the complexity and cost of managing multiple incompatible credential types.

"You will have a credential out of the box that is going to work not only with your reader but with others."

Who benefits from Leaf?

Leaf and wallet credentials are already being adopted in several key markets. Joe outlined the use cases where this technology really makes a difference.

• Multi dwelling units (MDUs)
• Student accommodation
• Commercial enterprise buildings
• Shared infrastructure like lockers printers and vending systems

"Anywhere that is using readers anything from lockers to vending. The application is huge."

Key Benefits of Leaf Credentials

Based on the discussion and the Leaf Community website the main benefits of Leaf Credentials are:

1. Interoperability
Leaf works across systems manufacturers and technologies. It simplifies upgrades and avoids lock in.

2. Lower Costs
By removing the need for proprietary software and hardware companies can reduce both capital and operational expenditure.

3. Wallet Integration
Leaf works smoothly with Apple Google and Samsung wallets. Credentials can be issued and used without cards or fobs.

4. Stronger Security
Modern encryption methods make Leaf Credentials safer than older technologies like low frequency cards or BLE tokens.

5. Open Ecosystem
Because Leaf is backed by a growing community it is constantly being developed for wider compatibility and flexibility.

Summary

Leaf Credentials represent a major shift in access control technology. Rather than tying customers to a single provider they offer freedom flexibility and better long term value. Paired with Wavelynx hardware and software these credentials deliver the convenience of mobile wallets the security of modern encryption and the openness required by today’s fast changing environments.

Whether you manage student housing commercial buildings or smart infrastructure Leaf provides a credentialing system that simply works.

For more information about the Leaf Community visit Leaf community home page here

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