Understanding MIFARE Card Formats: What’s Secure, What’s Not, and What You Should Be Using

MIFARE card technology is one of the most widely used—and most misunderstood—components of modern access control systems. If you’ve ever tapped a badge to enter a building or used a transit pass, there’s a good chance it was powered by a MIFARE chip. But not all MIFARE cards are created equal, and some pose serious security risks.

In this post, we’ll break down the MIFARE lineup—from the outdated Classic to the advanced DESFire EV3 and the future-ready DUOX. Whether you’re securing an office, campus, or high-value infrastructure, this guide will help you make the right decision for your access control system.


What Is MIFARE Classic?

The Original—and the Most Vulnerable

MIFARE Classic cards operate at 13.56 MHz and offer limited data storage. They’ve been around for years and are commonly found in low-cost access solutions.

The problem? MIFARE Classic cards can be cloned in under 30 seconds using an inexpensive device, making them a poor choice for any environment where real security matters.

Key points:

  • Suitable only for low-security or temporary access.
  • Highly vulnerable to cloning.
  • Not recommended for schools, offices, or commercial facilities.

We previously published a video comparing MIFARE to other card technologies like HID Prox and iCLASS. If you’re looking for a broader overview of access credentials, that video offers additional context.


What Is MIFARE Plus?

A Transitional Security Upgrade

MIFARE Plus serves as a step between Classic and more advanced cards. It adds AES-128 encryption and allows for operation in compatibility mode, making it easier to upgrade from MIFARE Classic systems.

Key points:

  • Offers stronger encryption than Classic.
  • Useful as a transitional card when updating infrastructure.
  • Limited long-term value unless readers are also upgraded.

Where Does MIFARE Ultralight Fit?

Designed for Disposable Use

MIFARE Ultralight is best for temporary credentials such as transit passes or event tickets. It offers minimal storage and virtually no built-in security.

Key points:

  • Cost-effective for short-term applications.
  • Not intended for secure or permanent access credentials.

What About MIFARE Ultralight C?

MIFARE Ultralight C includes 3DES encryption for slightly better protection. However, it still falls short of the security standards required in enterprise or institutional environments.


MIFARE DESFire: EV1, EV2, and EV3

Enterprise-Grade Access Control

The DESFire series is built for high-security applications. It features AES encryption, support for multiple applications, and fast communication speeds. The latest version, EV3, meets Common Criteria EAL 4+ certification standards—ideal for industries that demand strict security and compliance.

Ideal for:

  • Universities
  • Hospitals
  • Corporate campuses
  • Government facilities

Key points:

  • Highly secure and scalable.
  • Supports advanced access control configurations.
  • Requires compatible infrastructure and a larger investment.

What Is MIFARE DUOX?

The Future of Secure Credentials

MIFARE DUOX brings together symmetric and asymmetric encryption, making it suitable for high-value applications such as smart vehicle access and EV charging stations.

Key points:

  • Top-tier security for advanced use cases.
  • Best suited for infrastructure with high security requirements.
  • Setup is more complex and cost is higher than other options.

MIFARE Formats Ranked: Least to Most Secure

To simplify your evaluation, here’s a ranking from the least secure to the most secure MIFARE card technologies:

  1. MIFARE Classic – easy to clone, not secure.
  2. MIFARE Ultralight – suitable only for short-term, low-risk use.
  3. MIFARE Plus – more secure, but dependent on infrastructure upgrades.
  4. MIFARE Ultralight C – slightly better encryption, still basic.
  5. MIFARE DESFire EV1/EV2 – enterprise-ready and reliable.
  6. MIFARE DESFire EV3 – top-tier option for long-term, secure deployments.
  7. MIFARE DUOX – best-in-class for specialized, high-value access.

Which MIFARE Card Should You Choose?

If your goal is simply affordability for short-term access, MIFARE Ultralight may work. But for schools, businesses, or organizations requiring long-term security and scalability, DESFire EV3 or DUOX should be at the top of your list.

Not sure which direction to go? That’s exactly where we come in.


Get Expert Help from 210 Solutions

At 210 Solutions, we help schools, businesses, and facilities design and implement access control systems that are built for security, scalability, and simplicity. Whether you’re replacing outdated credentials or starting fresh, we can guide you through the best options for your needs.

210 Solutions IT Company