Are keypad door locks safe?

You like the idea of ditching house keys and upgrading to a modern smart lock, but you have concerns about safety. Are keypad door locks really safer than their time-honored counterparts? The quick response is yes. But before installing one with your Pensacola smart home, there are some things you should consider.

Why smart locks are a better choice for your Pensacola home

The biggest downside of traditional locks is having to rely on a key. Keys are frequently misplaced and simple to copy, which can be a real problem if they end up with the wrong person. On top of that, older locks are more vulnerable to picking, bumping, and forcing. Modern smart locks eliminate the need for a key entirely. The options that provide a backup keyed system frequently use a more secure style of cylinder, so they can’t be bypassed by traditional methods.

What are the risks of keypad door locks?

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

• Unauthorized code usage: Codes have to be kept confidential. It’s also wise to update them often and avoid obvious codes like “1234.” If you have to give a person one-time-only access, you can configure a code and then delete it once it’s served its purpose.
  
  
• Hacking: System breaches are always a concern for electronic devices bridged to your smart home. Offset the risk by regularly updating apps, firmware, and passwords. Incorporate two-factor identification whenever possible.
  
  
• Technical glitches: Issues can arise due to a software bug, WiFi drop, or battery failure. As a general rule, core local features like keypad entry still work even when your WiFi is offline, but you might lose smartphone app functionality. Models with backup keyed systems can provide you with another way in.

Do smart locks still operate during a power outage?

Yes, your smart lock should still operate when your power goes out as it runs on battery power, not your home’s electricity. You can still use the keypad, Bluetooth, or fingerprint scanner, based on what your system offers.

Why Vivint smart locks are an excellent choice for your home

Vivint’s smart locks work reliably with other components within your smart home environment. You can switch the lights on automatically when the door is unlocked, or configure a whole-home scene with several automations. To illustrate, you can arm your system, dim lights, secure your door, and even change your thermostat simultaneously when you call it a day. The best part is that 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 as many as 50 unique access codes.

Vivint is the key to your Pensacola home security

Would you enjoy locking or unlocking your door remotely and integrating custom actions that activate your smart locks and other devices simultaneously? You can do it with Vivint. Place a call to (850) 790-5902 to explore our systems and get help designing your own Pensacola smart home.