Connectivity Standards Alliance - Experts & Thought Leaders

The Open Connectivity Foundation (OCF) has published an update to its Secure IP Device Framework to bridge with the Matter device ecosystem. The update enables OCF and Matter devices to coexist and interact within the same smart home, strengthening interoperability, enhancing the user experience and improving return on investment for the homeowner. "Full smart home and building automation has always been our priority, and is only possible through interoperability," comments Brian Bishop, OCF President. Building management systems The OCF-Matter bridge is composed of derived models that map connections between the two standards Brian Bishop added: "The explosion in IoT innovation, frameworks, regulations and more has created fragmentation, making interoperability a challenge. Bridging different ecosystems is a key step in addressing this, enabling Matter devices to be onboarded and managed within an OCF smart home network, and vice versa. This gives consumers and installers the choice, flexibility, and enhanced smart home experience they crave." The OCF-Matter bridge is composed of derived models that map connections between the two standards, enabling the devices to speak the same language and appear on the same network. This development is also relevant to support the convergence between residential and commercial buildings as infrastructure projects adopt unified building management systems and work towards cognitive buildings. Announcement of the OCF-Matter Bridge "The Connectivity Standards Alliance is proud to see initiatives like this as a result of the efforts from our mutual members," said Tobin Richardson, President & CEO, Connectivity Standards Alliance.  Tobin Richardson adds, "The announcement of the OCF-Matter Bridge exemplifies our shared commitment to reducing barriers to interoperability and enabling opportunities for connectivity and innovation across diverse devices and platforms."

Allegion US, a pioneering provider of security solutions, technology, and services, will be exhibiting and demonstrating new interoperable electronic access control technologies and software at the ISC West 2024 (booth # 20055), the security industry's most comprehensive and converged trade show occurring from April 9-12, 2024, at the Venetian Expo in Las Vegas. "At Allegion, we're committed to innovation that links the world to seamless and secure access in the places we live, learn, work, and connect," says Mark Casey, Vice President of national electronic sales at Allegion. "We take pride in connecting our customers to top-tier partners in the industry, the most advanced hardware and mobile credentials, and the most interoperable technology platforms. Our goal is to provide the best access control solutions to make others' lives easier and safer, and we're excited to have the opportunity to showcase that at ISC West this year." CSA and FiRA consortium SwiftConnect feeds clients with the revved adoption of NFC access control and seamless access affairs Allegion's commitment to being the partner of choice is rooted in being able to serve customers holistically-from design and collaboration tools to hardware, software, and the technology relationships that ultimately give customers the freedom of choice. Through the Allegion Alliance Network, Allegion develops collaborative relationships with other companies to provide a broader range of products and services.  In addition, participation with the Connectivity Standards Alliance (CSA) and the FiRA consortium provides cutting-edge, cross-industry collaboration with a focus on solving for end-user needs. And collaboration with pioneering companies like SwiftConnect provides customers with accelerated adoption of NFC access control and seamless access experiences. Latest products and solutions Allegion, with its four SIA Power 100 honorees, will be connecting with attendees and showcasing its latest products and solutions, including: Schlage® NDE and LE mobile-enabled wireless locks with Si option: Winner of Securityinfowatch's Reader's Choice Awards, these interoperable solutions are ideal for customers using HID iCLASS®, iCLASS SE®, Seos® smart or NFC mobile credentials, including those using HID iCLASS Standard or Elite Keys, who want to extend access control further into their buildings using Schlage intelligent wireless locks. This new option gives security directors and facility managers the power to leverage their existing credential investment and choose the solution that fits the needs of their sites, furthering Allegion's commitment to being open, interoperable, and flexible. Schlage XE360: Building on the innovation of Schlage electronic locks, the recently launched XE360™ Series is the next generation of wireless electronic lock from Schlage made to fit the needs of a wide range of common area openings. Its sleek design offers customers a solution that looks as good as it performs – at an affordable price point. The Schlage XE360™ series presents multifamily property owners and managers with a unique opportunity to increase operational efficiencies, drive revenue and enhance renter acquisition and retention. Student ID: With Schlage Mobile Student ID, students can add their student ID to Apple or Google Wallet to access their residence hall, purchase food and gain access to the big game, all with the tap of their phone or watch. Campuses enjoy other benefits such as increased security, a reduction in card fraud and operational efficiency. Issuing credentials is fast and easy; plus, they are distributed virtually, making student provisioning convenient and contactless. Employee Badge: With the wallet-based Schlage employee badge, users can seamlessly access office buildings and other workplace amenities with a tap of their phone or watch - no need to unlock their device or open an app. Issuing employee badge credentials is easy, secure, and virtual for contactless employee provisioning. Overtur: Overtur™ is a cloud-based solution from Allegion that enables project teams to work together on the design, construction, and management of door security and openings from any location. It offers a central hub to store, update, and verify door hardware specifications and choices, with seamless integration with pioneering industry tools. Overtur also has features like Installation Status, Punch List and Site Survey that make it easier to collect and organize onsite data in one place, reducing the reliance on paper and manual processes. Zentra: Zentra™ is redefining security with a seamless solution designed to solve the everyday problems of multifamily property access. Property owners and managers can run operations efficiently on one single access system, while providing their residents with a seamless security solution across the property.     Patented Schlage Indication Trims: With some of the largest windows on the market and patented 180-degree views, Schlage's new indication trims provide enhanced lock status visibility, allowing for quick confirmation that doors are securely locked from various positions in the room. Nowhere else is there a greater need for this than in K-12 and higher education settings. The new line of Schlage Indication Solutions builds upon Allegion's indication product portfolio, including Von Duprin security indicators, that were designed for high-occupancy areas. Allegion experts Show attendees are also encouraged to join Allegion experts at the following events: Accelerated Learning Through Gaming: This education session will teach security professionals how to incorporate immersive gamification into their educational trainings to improve content retention and the student's learning experience. The event takes place in the Career Zone on Thursday, April 11, from 1-2 p.m. PT. Mission 500 Security 5K Run/2K Walk: Join Allegion team members in a race for a cause on Thursday, April 11, from 7:30-8:30 a.m. PT. Mission 500 is a nonprofit organization that works closely with the security industry to serve the needs of children and communities in crisis in the United States. Funds raised will be used to benefit children in need across the country. Implement PASS Guidelines Additionally, show attendees can stop by the Partner Alliance for Safer Schools (PASS) booth #10141 to learn more about Allegion's efforts alongside PASS to improve school safety and security. Attendees can speak with on-the-floor experts to learn about how to help schools implement PASS Guidelines and avoid critical security mistakes. Security professionals who will not be attending the show in person this year can utilize Allegion's online resources including the Changing Face of School Security Podcast and a wide array of Virtual Trainings.

The Connectivity Standards Alliance ("Alliance") Product Security Working Group is pleased to announce the release of their IoT (Internet of Things) Device Security Specification 1.0, with the accompanying certification program, and Product Security Verified Mark. This groundbreaking initiative aims to establish a unified IoT cybersecurity standard and certification program, providing manufacturers with a one-stop solution to certify their devices, enabling them to comply with multiple international regulations and standards more easily. Diverse international regulations "The unveiling of the IoT Device Security Specification 1.0, alongside its certification program and the Product Security Verified Mark, signals an important milestone in bolstering IoT security and building confidence with consumers," said Tobin Richardson, Alliance President & CEO of the Connectivity Standards Alliance. "By bringing together diverse international regulations into a cohesive specification, the Product Security Certification Program streamlines the process, reduces redundancy, and provides manufacturers with a singular, respected avenue for certifying their devices globally." IoT Cybersecurity baselines The Product Security Working Group aims to meet this challenge by consolidating requirements With the increasing adoption of consumer IoT devices, there is a heightened emphasis on security due to a rise in incidents involving breaches and malicious device hijackings. The Product Security Working Group aims to meet this challenge by consolidating requirements from the three most popular IoT Cybersecurity baselines from the United States, Singapore, and Europe into a single specification and certification program. This unifying effort helps manufacturers more easily and efficiently address these regulatory regimes' requirements aiming to instill confidence in consumers and regulators. Value of IoT devices "As consumers embrace the convenience and value of IoT devices, the Alliance is dedicated to helping to create more comprehensive protection for consumers. This initiative aims to establish a robust baseline for all consumer IoT devices," said Steve Hanna of Infineon Technologies AG and Chair of the Product Security Working Group Steering Committee. "The Alliance's Product Security Verified Mark and IoT Device Security Specification 1.0 will make it easier for manufacturers to address consumer IoT security requirements around the world." IoT Device Security Specification 1.0 requirements The Product Security's IoT Device Security Specification includes dozens of specific device security provisions. IoT Device Manufacturers must demonstrate compliance with those provisions, supplying justifications and evidence to an Authorized Test Laboratory with expertise in security evaluation and experience certifying products relative to this specification. Highlights of the specific requirements include: Unique identity for each IoT Device No hardcoded default passwords Secure storage of sensitive data on the Device Secure communications of security-relevant information Secure software updates throughout the support period Secure development process, including vulnerability management Public documentation regarding security, including the support period Driving requirements and specification These units spearheaded the process by driving needs and specification action Nearly 200 member companies — including  Amazon, Arm, Comcast, Google, Infineon Technologies AG, NXP Semiconductors, Schneider Electric, Signify (Philips Hue and WiZ), and Silicon Labs —  have collaborated, pooling related technologies, expertise, and innovations enabling the IoT Device Security Specification 1.0, the accompanying certification program, and Product Security Verified Mark to meet the diverse needs of stakeholders, including consumers, device manufacturers, and regulators. Together, these companies spearheaded the process by driving requirements and specification development and ultimately helping validate the final specification. The Product Security Certification Program and Verified Mark Product Security Verified Mark is proof a product meets the specification's security needs Encompassing a broad spectrum of smart home devices such as light bulbs, switches, thermostats, doorbell cameras, and more, the Product Security Certification Program establishes minimum requirements for IoT devices. By consolidating several international regulations into a single set of requirements, the Certification Program streamlines the process, helping manufacturers meet certification criteria from multiple countries or regions with a single evaluation. The Product Security Verified Mark is confirmation a product meets the specification's security requirements, with the goal of inspiring consumer confidence. When displayed prominently on certified product packaging, store signage, and online platforms, this Verified Mark builds trust by serving as a marker for secure IoT devices. A printed URL, hyperlink, QR code, or a combination of these representations on the Product Security Verified Mark gives consumers access to more information about the device's security features. Looking ahead As technology advances and new threats emerge, the Product Security Working Group remains committed to continuously enhancing the IoT Security Device Specification and the accompanying certification program. To learn more about how to be a part of the next generation of the IoT, visit here and become a Member of the Connectivity Standards Alliance.

Matter is a new open-source interoperability standard that will simplify the connectivity of smart home systems, including security.  The growing popularity of the Matter 1.0 standard was evident at the large Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in January in Las Vegas, where the standard was heavily promoted by companies including Google, Amazon, and Samsung. A flood of Matter-connected products is on the horizon for ship dates in the second half of 2023. Evolve, and manage IoT standards Creating the standard is the Connectivity Standards Alliance (CSA), formerly the Zigbee Alliance, which changed its name in May 2021. With 300 companies as members, CSA seeks to create, evolve, and manage Internet of Things (IoT) technology standards through a well-established, collaborative process. CSA promotes the benefits of global, open standards, and the value of the IoT to customers and consumers, and seeks to break down the barriers to broad access and adoption of IoT technologies and solutions. Matter The new brand name Matter was launched in May 2021 to designate the standard formerly known as Project CHIP (Connected Home over IP), developed by CSA member companies including Apple, Google, Samsung, and Amazon. There are currently 800 devices and apps certified to the new smart home standard, including various smart home equipment (except video cameras, which will be included in a major release in the fall of 2023). Matter version 1.0 was initial launch in October 2022. Matter 1.0 release Twice a year moving forward, Matter plans a minor release each spring and a major release each fall As part of the Matter 1.0 release, authorized test labs are open for product certification, the test harnesses and tools are available, and the open-source reference design software development kit (SDK) is complete, thus enabling new products to be brought to market. Twice a year moving forward, Matter plans updated releases, a minor release each spring and a major release each fall. Smart home interoperability Currently, a variety of CSA working groups are addressing various aspects of interoperability in the smart home, including issues such as data privacy, security, energy management, and health and wellness, says Christopher LaPré, CSA’s Head of Technology. “Implementing elements requires that the standards alliance be able to multitask on several tracks,” says LaPré. Some development is centering around connectivity and the need for a “hub” to which multiple systems can communicate and incorporate an “identity” to regulate the availability of information to various systems. The standards will enable both do-it-yourself (DIY) systems and devices deployed by professional installers. Addressing privacy requirements The new development will be guided by what installers need to succeed in the home automation" Ecosystems depend on the availability of some type of “identity” to meet privacy requirements. Rules must be implemented across the ecosystem that deploys a “trust system” to ensure privacy. Solving the challenge involves getting all the major players to the table at the technical level to meet the bar from the business and technology perspective. “Integrators and retailers will play a role as Matter continues to evolve,” says LaPré. “New development will be guided by what installers need to succeed in the home automation market.” Matter-certified devices There is still work to be done to expand the 800 certified devices to function throughout the Matter ecosystem and to add new devices over time. One goal is to simplify an integrator’s solution using fewer hubs (and possibly a single hub) to provide a wide variety of services. The timeline of adding new Matter-certified devices may be delayed by the availability of equipment in the global supply chain, says LaPré. Flexibility Multi-admin provides for the simultaneous operation of devices in multiple smart home systems A multi-admin feature of Matter enables more flexibility for multiple ecosystems. A core feature of Matter, multi-admin provides for the simultaneous operation of devices in multiple smart home systems. Accordingly, family or household members could operate the device with the digital assistant or smartphone app of their choice. A bridging protocol helps to tie existing systems together.  Amazon, Apple, Comcast, Google, SmartThings, and the Connectivity Standards Alliance came together in 2019 to develop and promote this new standard, joined by fellow Alliance board member companies IKEA, Legrand, NXP Semiconductors, Resideo, Schneider Electric, Signify, Silicon Labs, Somfy and Wulian. Smart device communication Currently, member organizations span all sizes, across a range of business categories. More than 1,700 Member individuals participate in bringing the Matter specification, reference implementations, testing tools, and certification programs to life. Matter's underlying network technologies are Wi-Fi and Thread. Wi-Fi enables Matter devices to interact over a high-bandwidth local network and allows smart home devices to communicate with the cloud. Thread provides a mesh network within the home. Both the Wi-Fi Alliance and Thread Group partnered with the Connectivity Standards Alliance to help realize the vision of Matter.