Are keypad door locks safe?

You like the idea of eliminating traditional house keys and upgrading to a modern smart lock, but safety is still a worry. Are keypad door locks actually safer than their time-honored counterparts? The simple response is yes. But before installing one with your Lincoln smart home, there are a few things you should consider.

Why upgrading to a smart lock makes sense for your Lincoln home

The biggest downside of traditional locks is the need for a key. Keys are frequently lost and simple to copy, which leads to disaster if they fall into the wrong hands. In addition, older locks are more vulnerable to picking, bumping, and forcing. Modern smart locks remove the need for a key altogether. The options that provide a backup keyed system frequently use a more secure type of cylinder, making them resistant to established break-in methods.

What are the risks of keypad door locks?

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

• Unauthorized code use: Codes must be kept confidential. It’s also a good idea to change them often and never use obvious codes like “1234.” If you have to give a person single-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. Reduce the risk by updating apps, firmware, and passwords regularly. Use two-factor identification if possible.
  
  
• Technical issues: Issues can arise due to a battery failure, software bug, or WiFi disconnection. Generally speaking, vital local features like the keypad still work if your WiFi is down, but you might lose access to the smartphone app. Smart locks with backup keyed locks can provide you with another way in.

Do smart locks still work during a power outage?

Yes, your smart lock should still operate when you lose power as it gets power from batteries, not your home electricity. You may still use the keypad, Bluetooth, or fingerprint scanner, based on what your system offers.

Why Vivint smart locks are a smart choice for your home

Vivint’s Kwikset smart locks work seamlessly with other equipment in your smart home. You can set a rule to turn the lights on whenever the door is opened, or create a full-fledged scene with several automations. To illustrate, you can arm your system, dim lighting, fasten your door, and even change your thermostat at the same time when you call it a day. The best part is that your locks and all your smart home components are completely accessible in the palm of your hand with the Vivint app.

You’ll always be aware of who’s exiting and entering as Vivint systems keep track of smart lock codes. You can also create as many as 50 unique access codes.

Vivint is the key to your Lincoln smart home

Would you enjoy unlocking or locking your door remotely and establishing custom actions that engage your smart locks and other components simultaneously? You can do it with Vivint. Call (402) 545-5763 to find out more about our systems and let us help you design your own Lincoln smart home.