> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://help.security.gallagher.com/knowledge-hub/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://help.security.gallagher.com/knowledge-hub/products/product-advisories/current-advisories/card-encoding-service-process-note.md).

# Card Encoding Service process note

Send Site Specific Site Keys securely when ordering Gallagher card encoding services.

In Command Centre **8.20 and greater**, the MIFARE Site Key setting defaults to a **unique Site Specific Site Key** rather than the Gallagher standard key. A unique key offers greater protection from compromise than a key used on many sites.

Two things change in the Gallagher Card Encoding service as a result:

1. The site's unique key and password **must be sent by separate transmissions**.
2. The credential technology being encoded must include a **MIFARE DESFire element**.

## Adding a unique Site Specific Site Key to the Gallagher Card Encoding system

1. Export the unique Site Specific Site Key from the site, using the procedure below. You will have a `MifareKeys.txt` file and a password from the export. Keep both in a secure location, and note the name and phone number of a staff member who knows the password and can be contacted by Gallagher.
2. Email the following to **Gallagher Sales Order Management** along with the normal Card Encoding information:
   * Site Number and Site Name
   * Description of the MIFARE DESFire credential required
   * `MifareKeys.txt`
   * The name and contact number of the staff member who knows the password

> **Note:** Gallagher cannot proceed with the encoding order until all of the above is received.

> ⚠️ **Remember:** do **not** send `MifareKeys.txt` and the password in the same email. This could compromise the integrity of your unique Site Key.

## Exporting Site Specific Site Keys

1. Log on to Command Centre Configuration Client.
2. Go to **File → Server Properties → Card Security** tab.
3. On the right-hand side of the panel, uncheck **"Use default MIFARE site key"**. A pop-up window appears.
4. Click **Generate** to generate the Site Key, then Apply.
5. Click **Export Keys…** to export the Site Key file. You are asked for a password. Fill it in and save it somewhere safe. You will later provide this password to a Gallagher staff member **who will call you by phone**.
6. The export saves a `MifareKeys.txt` file. Send this file, with your name and phone number, by email to Gallagher.
7. Some time after Gallagher has received the above and a purchase order for card encoding services, a Gallagher staff member will call and ask for the password.

> ⚠️ **Important:** do not send the password to Gallagher via email.

For an extended explanation of Card Security setup, open the Help menu in Command Centre and search "Export site key", then Card Security.

{% file src="/files/JidgEI8yan63DpN04j3j" %}
Card Encoding Site Specific Site Keys process note
{% endfile %}


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