Set the zone authentication method

Last modified: Wednesday March 11, 2026.

We are improving the arming station authentication process over several software updates. Check the release notes and this documentation for updates.

Before using an arming station or console device to arm or disarm zones, a user must authenticate with a card or PIN. You set the authentication method in your deployment settings and it applies to every zone and device.

Choose between Alta Access user credentials or Zone PINs.

User credentials: PINs and Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) cards. See Add Protect user credentials in Alta Access
PIN: A PIN that anybody can enter into an arming station to arm and disarm any associated zones. See Zone PINs.

Set the authentication method for arming stations and console devices

From the toolbar, open > System.
From Deployment, select .
Select General.
Under SECURITY SETTINGS, click Zone authentication .
For Authenticated by choose User credentials or Zone PIN.
Set the number of Allowed attempts. Associated zones enter an alarm state if a user fails to authenticate within this limit.
Click Done.