Are keypad door locks safe?

You are drawn to the idea of ditching traditional house keys and moving to a modern smart locking system, but you have concerns about safety. Are keypad door locks truly safer than their classic counterparts? The quick reply is yes. But before adding one to your Hammond smart home, there are a few things you should know.

Why smart locks are a better choice for your Hammond home

The main issue with traditional locks is having to rely on a key. Keys are often lost and simple to copy, which leads to disaster if they fall into the wrong hands. Besides, older door locks are more vulnerable to bumping, forcing, and picking. Modern smart locks eliminate the need for a key altogether. The ones that have a backup keyed system typically use a different style of cylinder, making them resistant to established break-in methods.

Are there any concerns with keypad door locks?

Even though they’re typically safer than older locking systems, keypad door locks do carry some risks, including the following:

• Unauthorized code usage: Codes must be kept secure. It’s also a good idea to change them regularly and never use easy-to-guess codes like “1234.” If you need to give someone one-time access, you can create a code and then remove it once it’s no longer needed.
  
  
• Hacking: Cyber intrusions are always a risk to electronic devices bridged to your smart home. Mitigate the risk by updating passwords, apps, and firmware frequently. Integrate two-factor identification whenever you can.
  
  
• Technical problems: A WiFi disconnection, software bug, or battery failure can create issues. Generally speaking, core local features like the keypad still work even when your WiFi is down, but you may lose smartphone app functionality. Smart locks with backup keyed systems can offer another way in.

Do smart locks still work during power outages?

Yes, your smart lock should still function when you lose power as it gets power from batteries, not your wired electricity. You can still use the keypad, Bluetooth, or fingerprint scanner, depending on what your system offers.

Why Vivint smart locks are a great fit for your home

Vivint’s smart locks work reliably with other components in your smart home. You can set a rule to turn the lights on when the door is opened, or create a whole-home scene with several automations. For example, you can fasten your door, arm your system, turn lights off, and even adjust your thermostat all at once when you head to bed. And you know the best part? Your locks and all your smart home components are totally accessible from the convenience of the Vivint app.

You’ll always get insights into who’s exiting and entering as Vivint systems track smart lock codes. You can also set up to 50 unique access codes.

Vivint is the key to your Hammond smart home

Would you enjoy locking or unlocking your door remotely and designing custom actions that operate your smart locks and other devices all at once? You can do it with Vivint. Contact (219) 500-8943 to find out more about our systems and get help designing your own Hammond smart home.