Are keypad door locks safe?

You love the idea of ditching your old house keys and switching to a modern smart lock, but you have concerns about safety. Are keypad door locks actually safer than their time-honored counterparts? The easy reply is yes. But before integrating one into your Boston smart home, there are a few things you should consider.

Why smart locks are a better choice for your Boston home

The main issue with traditional locks is the need for a key. Keys are frequently lost and simple to copy, which can be a real problem if they end up with the wrong person. On top of that, older door locks are more vulnerable to picking, bumping, and forcing. Modern smart locks remove the need for a key entirely. The ones that have a backup keyed system usually use a different style of cylinder, so they can’t be bypassed by traditional methods.

Are there any risks with keypad door locks?

Although typically safer than older locking systems, keypad door locks do come with some risks, such as the following:

• Unauthorized code use: Codes have to be kept secure. It’s also a good idea to update them often and avoid predictable codes like “1234.” If you want to give somebody one-time-only access, you can create a code and then delete it once it’s served its purpose.
  
  
• Hacking: System breaches are always a risk to electronic devices connected to your smart home. Reduce the risk by regularly updating apps, firmware, and passwords. Integrate two-factor identification whenever you can.
  
  
• Technical issues: Issues can pop up due to a software bug, WiFi drop, or battery failure. However, core local features like keypad entry still work even when your WiFi is down, but you may lose app functionality. Smart locks with backup keyed locks can offer another way in.

Do smart locks still operate during power outages?

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

Why select Vivint smart locks for your Boston home?

Vivint’s smart locks work reliably with other equipment within your smart home environment. You can set a rule to switch the lights on automatically when the door is unlocked, or create a complete scene with many automations. For example, you can lock your door, arm your system, switch lights off, and even change your thermostat simultaneously when you call it a day. And you know what else? Your locks and all your smart home components are fully accessible from the convenience of the Vivint app.

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

Vivint is the key to your Boston smart home security

Would you enjoy locking or unlocking your door remotely and establishing custom actions that activate your smart locks and other equipment simultaneously? It’s possible with Vivint. Contact (617) 826-8647 to explore our systems and let us help you design your own Boston smart home.