Are keypad door locks safe?

You love the idea of ditching traditional house keys and moving to a modern smart lock, but safety is still a worry. Are keypad door locks actually safer than their old-school counterparts? The quick reply is yes. But before adding one to your Joliet smart home, there are a few things you should know.

Why switching to a smart lock makes sense for your Joliet home

The inherent problem with traditional locks is the requirement of a key. Keys are often lost and easy to copy, which spells trouble if they fall to the wrong person. Besides, older locks are more vulnerable to picking, bumping, and forcing. Modern smart locks remove the need for a key entirely. The options that offer a backup keyed system usually use a different style of cylinder, so they can’t be bypassed by traditional methods.

What are the risks of keypad door locks?

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

• Unauthorized code use: Codes have to be kept secure. It’s also wise to change them regularly and steer clear of predictable codes like “1234.” If you want to give somebody single-time access, you can configure a code and then eliminate it once it’s served its purpose.
  
  
• Hacking: Network breaches are always a hazard for electronic devices connected to your smart home. Mitigate the risk by frequently updating passwords, apps, and firmware. Incorporate two-factor identification whenever possible.
  
  
• Technical issues: Issues can come up due to a battery failure, software bug, or WiFi disconnection. However, vital local features like the keypad still work even when your WiFi is offline, but you might lose smartphone app functionality. Smart options with backup keyed systems can provide you with another way in.

Do smart locks still work during power outages?

Yes, your smart lock should still function when your power goes out as it runs on battery power, not your home’s electricity. You’ll still be able to use the keypad, Bluetooth, or biometric scanner, according to what your system supports.

Why Vivint smart locks are an excellent choice for your home

Vivint’s smart locks work seamlessly with other devices within your smart home environment. You can turn the lights on when the door is opened, or configure a whole-home scene with many automations. For example, you can turn lights off, lock your door, arm your system, and even lower your thermostat all at once when you go to bed. And you know the best part? Your locks and all your smart home devices are fully accessible in the palm of your hand with the Vivint app.

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

Vivint is the key to your Joliet home security

Would you like to lock or unlock your door remotely and establish custom actions that activate your smart locks and other devices at the same time? It’s doable with Vivint. Place a call to (815) 427-4864 to find out more about our systems and get help designing your own Joliet smart home.