MARCS Radios Need Authenticated

MARCS Radios Need Authenticated

The Ohio Department of Administrative Services (DAS) is reminding Ohio first responder and public safety agencies that use the Multi-Agency Radio Communication System (MARCS) to authenticate all radios or the radios won’t work on the MARCS system beginning July 1, 2025.

Radio Authentication (also known as Link Layer Authentication) is an industry standard in first responder/public safety communications and an increased safety and security measure to protect the emergency communications infrastructure of the MARCS radio system throughout Ohio. Authentication will safeguard against unauthorized people using and listening on the system and those attempting to disrupt the system.

The DAS MARCS Program Office has been actively encouraging customers to have their radios authenticated to provide the best and most secure service to everyone since July 1, 2020.

Each radio – base, mobile, and portable – must have Radio Authentication to operate on the MARCS system after July 1, 2025.

Some radios purchased after July 1, 2019, may already have been authenticated.

Radios purchased prior to July 1, 2019, may have the ability to be updated to comply with Radio Authentication, without the need to purchase a new radio.

MARCS radio users should contact their radio manufacturer or programming vendor as soon as possible. The authentication process can take up to three months.

Users also can check with the MARCS Program Office, by emailing DAS-MARCS.admin@DAS.Ohio.gov or calling 614-995-0060.