Are keypad door locks safe?

You are drawn to the idea of eliminating traditional house keys and moving to a modern smart lock, but safety is still a worry. Are keypad door locks truly safer than their classic counterparts? The quick reply is yes. But before installing one with your Port St. Lucie smart home, there are a few things you should think about.

Why upgrading to a smart lock makes sense for your Port St. Lucie home

The biggest downside of traditional locks is the requirement of a key. Keys are frequently lost and simple to copy, which can be a real problem if they fall into the wrong hands. In addition, older door locks are more vulnerable to bumping, forcing, and picking. Modern smart locks eliminate the need for a key altogether. The models that provide a backup keyed system typically use a more secure kind of cylinder, so they can’t be circumvented by traditional methods.

What are the risks of keypad door locks?

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

• Unauthorized code entry: Codes have to be kept secure. It’s also a good idea to change them regularly and never use predictable codes like “1234.” If you have to give a person single-time access, you can create a code and then delete it once it’s served its purpose.
  
  
• Hacking: Cyber intrusions are always a concern for electronic devices linked to your smart home. Mitigate the risk by updating firmware, apps, and passwords often. Incorporate two-factor identification if possible.
  
  
• Technical issues: Issues can arise due to a software bug, WiFi drop, or battery failure. However, essential local features like keypad entry still work even if your WiFi is offline, but you may lose access to the smartphone app. 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 work during a blackout as it runs on battery power, not your wired electricity. You’ll still be able to use the keypad, Bluetooth, or biometric scanner, according to what your system offers.

Why select Vivint smart locks for your Port St. Lucie home?

Vivint’s smart locks work reliably with other devices within your smart home environment. You can turn the lights on whenever the door is opened, or create a whole-home scene with many automations. For example, you might dim lighting, lock your door, arm your system, and even lower your thermostat all at once when you head to bed. And you know the best part? Your locks and all your smart home components are fully accessible from your phone in the Vivint app.

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

Vivint is the key to your Port St. Lucie smart home security

Would you like to unlock or lock your door remotely and integrate custom actions that activate your smart locks and other devices at the same time? It’s possible with Vivint. Place a call to (772) 257-4553 to learn more about our systems and start designing your own Port St. Lucie smart home.