Embodiments of the invention are directed to enabling access transaction systems to accept different communication protocols. In some embodiment, an access device receives, from a portable device, an indication that a transaction is to be performed by exchanging transaction information between the portable device and a remote computer, wherein the remote computer is configured to communicate using a first communication protocol. Next, the access device determines that the portable device is configured to communicate using a second communication protocol. The access device then converts communications between the portable device and the remote computer from the second communication protocol to the first communication protocol to assist the portable device and the remote computer in exchanging the transaction information.