Are keypad door locks safe?

You love the idea of eliminating traditional house keys and upgrading to a modern smart locking system, but safety is still a worry. Are keypad door locks truly safer than the old locks they’re replacing? The easy answer is yes. But before adding one to your Fort Wayne smart home, there are a few things you should think about.

Why switching to a smart lock makes sense for your Fort Wayne home

The inherent problem with traditional locks is the need for a key. Keys are often misplaced and easy to copy, which leads to disaster if they fall to the wrong person. In addition, older door locks are more vulnerable to picking, bumping, and forcing. Modern smart locks remove the need for a key completely. The options that have a backup keyed lock typically use a different kind of cylinder, making them resistant to traditional break-in methods.

What are the risks of keypad door locks?

Even though they’re generally safer than traditional locking systems, keypad door locks do come with some risks, including the following:

• Unauthorized code usage: Codes must be kept secure. It’s also wise to update them periodically and avoid predictable codes like “1234.” If you want to give a person one-time access, you can create a code and then remove it once it’s served its purpose.
  
  
• Hacking: Network breaches are always a risk to electronic devices connected to your smart home. Offset the risk by updating apps, firmware, and passwords frequently. Integrate two-factor identification if possible.
  
  
• Technical issues: A battery failure, WiFi disconnection, or software bug can lead to problems. As a general rule, essential local features like a PIN code still work even when your WiFi is offline, but you might lose access to the smartphone app. Smart locks with backup keyed systems can provide you with another way in.

Do smart locks still function during a power outage?

Yes, your smart lock should still operate when power is lost as it runs on battery power, not your home electricity. You’ll still be able to use the keypad, fingerprint scanner, or Bluetooth, according to what your system uses.

Why Vivint smart locks are an excellent choice for your home

Vivint’s Kwikset smart locks work smoothly with other equipment within your smart home environment. You can switch the lights on any time the door is opened, or configure a whole-home scene with several automations. For example, you might lock your door, arm your system, turn lights off, and even change your thermostat at the same time when you call it a day. And you know what else? Your locks and all your smart home components are fully accessible in the palm of your hand with the Vivint app.

You’ll always be aware of who’s coming and going as Vivint systems track smart lock codes. You can also set up to 50 unique access codes.

Vivint is the key to your Fort Wayne smart home security

Would you like to unlock or lock your door remotely and establish custom actions that activate your smart locks and other devices at the same time? It’s possible with Vivint. Place a call to (260) 286-9602 to learn more about our systems and start designing your own Fort Wayne smart home.