Understanding AWID 26 Bit in Access Control Systems
The AWID 26 Bit format is one of the most common card types used in modern access control systems. Many property managers, business owners, and maintenance teams in Northern Colorado ask whether their existing readers will support AWID 26 Bit credentials — especially when expanding or upgrading their systems.
In this article, Secure It Controls, based in Fort Collins, answers the most common compatibility questions to help you make informed decisions for your small business access control needs.
What Does “AWID 26 Bit” Mean?
The term “26 Bit” refers to the structure of the data stored on the proximity card. The AWID 26 Bit format typically includes a facility code and a card ID number, making it simple, reliable, and widely compatible across many access control systems.
Because it’s a standard format, AWID 26 Bit cards can often be used with readers from multiple manufacturers — not just AWID. However, the reader and access control panel must both support 26-bit Wiegand communication.
Are AWID 26 Bit Cards Compatible With My Reader?
Compatibility depends on both the reader brand and the controller you’re using. Many systems that support Wiegand 26-bit data — including brands like HID, Kantech, Lenel, Brivo, Paxton, and Alarm.com — can accept AWID 26 Bit credentials.
At Secure It Controls, we regularly assist businesses in Fort Collins, Loveland, Greeley, Longmont, Boulder, Brighton, and Denver with determining whether their readers are AWID 26 Bit compatible. In some cases, a quick test with a sample credential is all that’s needed to confirm functionality.
Can AWID 26 Bit Cards Be Replaced or Mixed With Other Formats?
Yes — but proceed with care. While you can replace AWID 26 Bit cards with new ones from another supplier, all cards must share the same facility code and bit structure for your readers and panels to recognize them correctly.
Mixing formats such as HID 26 Bit, AWID 26 Bit, or Kantech 26 Bit in the same system can cause unpredictable results. Secure It Controls can help audit your readers and recommend a consistent credential type for smooth operation.
Why Choose Secure It Controls for Access Control in Northern Colorado?
With over 26 years of experience, Secure It Controls designs, installs, and services access control systems for small businesses across Northern Colorado, including Fort Collins, Loveland, Greeley, Longmont, Boulder, Brighton, and Denver.
We specialize in reader upgrades, credential management, and complete installations for commercial buildings, HOAs, fitness centers, and secured facilities. Our expertise ensures that your AWID 26 Bit or other proximity card systems integrate seamlessly with your existing doors and software.
Free Sample Cards Available
Want to verify if your readers are AWID 26 Bit compatible?
Free samples to test are available: Contact us to request a free sample
Shop AWID-Compatible Credentials
Looking to purchase AWID 26 Bit and 50 Bit credentials for your business or property? We offer a full selection of cards, key fobs, adhesive sticker tags, and wristbands that work with most AWID-compatible access control systems.
Shop AWID-compatible 26 Bit and 50 Bit credentials to find the right products for your readers and system setup.
Secure It Controls supplies and installs AWID-compatible proximity credentials for access control systems across Northern Colorado, including Fort Collins, Loveland, Greeley, Longmont, Boulder, Brighton, and Denver. Whether you’re replacing lost key fobs, expanding your system, or standardizing credentials across multiple locations, we provide reliable 125 kHz AWID 26 Bit and 50 Bit solutions that keep your security consistent and dependable.