Aliro

An open standard for secure mobile access control using smartphones and wearables

Eng 日本語

Aliro is a standardized communication protocol developed by the Connectivity Standards Alliance (CSA) that enables interoperability between mobile devices, wearables, and access control readers from different manufacturers. The standard defines how smartphones and wearables can securely replace physical keys for unlocking doors and entry points in both residential and commercial applications.

The protocol supports multiple wireless technologies, including Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), Ultra-Wideband (UWB), and NFC, allowing developers to choose the appropriate technology for their specific use case.

Nordic Semiconductor is actively involved in the development of the Aliro standard and provides complete hardware and software solutions for building Aliro-compliant access control devices.

Why is Aliro needed?

The Challenge in Access Control

The Challenge in Access Control

The access control industry has long struggled with fragmentation. Proprietary mobile credential systems from different manufacturers are incompatible with each other, forcing system integrators to commit to single-vendor ecosystems. This creates several problems:

  • Integration complexity: Each vendor's solution requires separate development effort, increasing time-to-market and R&D costs
  • Limited flexibility: Building owners and system integrators cannot mix and match hardware from different suppliers
  • Poor user experience: Users need different apps and credentials for different locations, reducing adoption
  • Troubleshooting difficulties: Diagnosing issues across multiple proprietary systems is time-consuming and costly

 

The Aliro Solution

Aliro eliminates fragmentation by providing a standardized communication protocol and credential format that works across manufacturers. This standardization delivers concrete benefits for different stakeholders:

 

For developers and manufacturers

  • Reduced R&D costs through shared development effort within the CSA
  • Faster time-to-market using standardized protocols and reference implementations
  • Access to a broader market by supporting all Aliro-compatible user devices

 

For installers and integrators

  • Simplified installation with interoperable components from multiple vendors
  • Streamlined troubleshooting using standardized diagnostic approaches
  • Greater flexibility in hardware selection

 

For system owners and end users

  • Freedom to choose hardware based on features and price rather than ecosystem lock-in
  • Consistent, familiar experience across different buildings and locations
  • Enhanced security through industry-vetted cryptographic standards

Aliro and Matter

Aliro and Matter: Complementary Standards

Aliro and Matter are complementary standards that work together to provide comprehensive smart home and building solutions. While Matter specifies how connected products communicate for command-and-control use cases like remotely locking or unlocking a door, checking lock status, or integrating with home automation systems, Aliro focuses specifically on the secure use of mobile devices and wearables as credentials at the door.

This means access control devices can support both protocols to deliver complementary functionality. Matter enables remote management and integration with smart home ecosystems, while Aliro provides a secure, standardized mobile credential experience at the door. For smart home applications, major smartphone vendors require the use of Matter in conjunction with Aliro.

Devices can support Aliro alone, Matter alone, or both protocols, depending on the specific use case and product requirements. Nordic's nRF54L Series SoCs are designed to support both standards, enabling developers to build products that leverage the strengths of each protocol. This multiprotocol capability reduces hardware complexity while maximizing interoperability across the smart home ecosystem.