Are keypad door locks safe?

You love the idea of eliminating your old house keys and moving to a modern smart locking system, but safety is still a concern. Are keypad door locks actually safer than the keyed locks they replace? The simple response is yes. But before adding one to your Toledo smart home, there are several things you should consider.

Why smart locks are the right choice for your Toledo home

The biggest downside of traditional locks is having to rely on a key. Keys are frequently lost and simple to copy, which spells trouble if they end up with the wrong person. In addition, older door locks are more vulnerable to bumping, forcing, and picking. Modern smart locks remove the need for a key entirely. The ones that provide a backup keyed system typically use a different style of cylinder, making them resistant to traditional break-in methods.

Are there any concerns with keypad door locks?

Although typically safer than standard locking systems, keypad door locks do have some risks, such as the following:

• Unauthorized code entry: Codes have to be kept confidential. It’s also smart to update them often and steer clear of predictable codes like “1234.” If you want to give a person one-time-only access, you can configure a code and then delete it once it’s no longer needed.
  
  
• Hacking: Network breaches are always a concern for electronic devices connected to your smart home. Mitigate the risk by regularly updating apps, firmware, and passwords. Incorporate two-factor identification whenever you can.
  
  
• Technical issues: A WiFi disconnection, software bug, or battery failure can lead to problems. Generally speaking, essential local features like a PIN code still work even when your WiFi is offline, but you might lose smartphone app functionality. Smart locks with backup keyed locks can provide you with another way in.

Do smart locks still operate during a power outage?

Yes, your smart lock should still function when you lose power as it is powered by batteries, not your home’s electricity. You may still use the keypad, Bluetooth, or biometric scanner, according to what your system uses.

Why Vivint smart locks are a great fit for your home

Vivint’s Kwikset smart locks work smoothly with other equipment in your smart home. You can make a rule to turn the lights on when the door is unlocked, or configure a complete scene with multiple automations. For instance, you can lock your door, arm your system, switch lights off, and even lower your thermostat at the same time when you go to bed. And you know the best part? Your locks and all your smart home equipment is completely accessible from the convenience of the Vivint app.

You’ll always get insights into who’s exiting and entering as Vivint systems monitor the use of smart lock codes. You can also create up to 50 unique access codes.

Vivint is the key to your Toledo home security

Would you like to unlock or lock your door remotely and establish custom actions that activate your smart locks and other components at the same time? You can do it with Vivint. Place a call to (419) 614-6278 to learn more about our systems and start designing your own Toledo smart home.