Are keypad door locks safe?

You like the idea of ditching your old house keys and switching to a modern smart lock, but safety is still a worry. Are keypad door locks truly safer than their old-school counterparts? The easy answer is yes. But before adding one to your Lansing smart home, there are a few things you should consider.

Why smart locks are the right option for your Lansing home

The main issue with traditional locks is the requirement of a key. Keys are frequently misplaced and easy to copy, which spells trouble if they get into the wrong hands. On top of that, older locks are more vulnerable to bumping, forcing, and picking. Modern smart locks do away with keys completely. The options that provide a backup keyed system typically use a different type of cylinder, making them resistant to common break-in methods.

Are there any concerns with keypad door locks?

While they’re typically safer than traditional locking systems, keypad door locks do have some risks, such as the following:

• Unauthorized code use: Codes need to be kept secure. It’s also smart to change them often and never use easy-to-guess codes like “1234.” If you have to give somebody single-time access, you can set a code and then eliminate it once it’s been used.
  
  
• Hacking: Network breaches are always a risk to electronic devices connected to your smart home. Reduce the risk by regularly updating passwords, apps, and firmware. Use two-factor identification if possible.
  
  
• Technical problems: A battery failure, WiFi disconnection, or software bug can lead to problems. Generally speaking, vital local features like the keypad still work even if your WiFi is down, but you may lose app functionality. Models with backup keyed systems can give you another way in.

Do smart locks still function during a power outage?

Yes, your smart lock should still operate when your power goes out as it runs on battery power, not your wired electricity. You’ll still be able to use the keypad, Bluetooth, or biometric scanner, based on what your system uses.

Why Vivint smart locks are a smart choice for your home

Vivint’s smart locks work smoothly with other equipment within your smart home environment. You can make a rule to switch the lights on automatically any time the door is unlocked, or establish a full-fledged scene with many automations. For instance, you might dim lighting, fasten your door, arm your system, and even change your thermostat all at once when you call it a day. And you know what else? Your locks and all your smart home equipment is totally accessible from the convenience of the Vivint app.

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

Vivint is the key to your Lansing home security

Would you enjoy locking or unlocking your door remotely and designing custom actions that activate your smart locks and other devices simultaneously? You can do it with Vivint. Place a call to (517) 760-8950 to learn more about our systems and get help designing your own Lansing smart home.