CER Directive – Complete Guide to Critical Infrastructure Compliance

Understand the CER Directive (EU 2022/2557) and learn how SnapKey helps secure your critical infrastructure with advanced access control and compliance.
3 min
CER Directive – Complete Guide to Critical Infrastructure Compliance

The CER Directive (Critical Entities Resilience, EU 2022/2557) came into force in the EU in October 2024. It sets enhanced requirements for critical societal systems (electricity, water, transport, healthcare) to be resilient against threats such as cyberattacks, natural disasters, and technical failures.

SnapKey helps you meet all requirements by providing automatic and documented access control.


Who is Covered by the CER Directive?

Sectors

  • Energy & electricity grid (power plants, distribution networks)
  • Water supply (waterworks, treatment plants)
  • Healthcare & hospitals (acute and specialist clinics)
  • Digital infrastructure & data centers (telecom, server rooms)
  • Transport, airports & ports (terminals, facilities)

Are you a critical entity? Read more about the CER Directive on EUR-Lex for details.


CER Requirements for Physical Security and Access Control

Enhanced Requirements

  • Documented access history
  • Vulnerability analysis & risk assessment
  • Emergency plans & operational continuity
  • Restricted access to critical facilities
  • Audit readiness for authorities

How SnapKey Meets CER Requirements

SnapKey delivers a unified platform that not only meets the CER Directive's minimum requirements but also supports your operational needs with advanced features:

SnapKey builds on iLOQ technology – a battery-free lock system that works without power, ideal for off-grid installations. This makes SnapKey particularly suitable for critical infrastructure where operational reliability and maintenance-free operation are crucial.

Access monitoring

Follow access events as the lock system reports them, with person, key and lock.

Time-limited Access

Create precise access windows for staff and external contractors.

Two-factor Authentication

Require a PIN or MitID on the QR code before a key is issued, for an extra level of security.

Automated Reports

Generate compliance reports with a single click, including history and trends.

Alarm & Event Log

Receive alarms when a critical lock or key is used, or an alarm sensor reports a forced entry.

Integrations & API

Seamless integration with your existing CMDB, SIEM, and ERP via RESTful API.


Comparison: CER Requirements vs. SnapKey

CER Requirement SnapKey Solution
Documented access Access log & tracking
Risk assessment Usage patterns & access analysis
Operational contingency plan Automatic access control & backup
Authorized access Time-limited, user-specific keys
Audit readiness Export to compliance reports

Getting Started Quickly

4 Steps to Implementation

  1. Map your critical access points
  2. Install SnapKey on doors, cabinets & system rooms
  3. Set up access profiles & roles
  4. Follow the access log and alarms in the dashboard

Ready for Audit?

SnapKey documents and protects all physical access from day one. You're always ready for audits and ensure operational security in compliance with CER.


FAQ

What is the CER Directive?

The CER Directive (EU 2022/2557) strengthens resilience in critical societal systems.

When does it apply?

The directive applies to EU member states from October 2024, with national implementation varying by country.

How does SnapKey help with compliance?

SnapKey provides documented access control, automated reports, and audit-ready logs.


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