Are keypad door locks safe?

You love the idea of ditching your old house keys and switching to a modern smart lock, but you’re concerned about safety. Are keypad door locks really safer than their old-school counterparts? The simple answer is yes. But before adding one to your Jefferson City smart home, there are some things you should think about.

Why smart locks are the right option for your Jefferson City home

The main issue with traditional locks is having to rely on a key. Keys are frequently lost and easy to copy, which spells trouble if they end up in the wrong hands. In addition, older locks are more vulnerable to bumping, forcing, and picking. Modern smart locks eliminate the need for a key altogether. The options that provide a backup keyed lock typically use a more secure type of cylinder, so they can’t be circumvented by traditional methods.

What are the risks of keypad door locks?

Although typically safer than older locking systems, keypad door locks do carry some risks, including the following:

• Unauthorized code use: Codes must be kept confidential. It’s also smart to change them often and avoid easy-to-guess codes like “1234.” If you want to give a person one-time-only access, you can set a code and then remove it once it’s served its purpose.
  
  
• Hacking: Network breaches are always a hazard for electronic devices linked to your smart home. Mitigate the risk by regularly updating firmware, apps, and passwords. Incorporate two-factor identification if possible.
  
  
• Technical glitches: Issues can arise due to a software bug, or battery failure. However, core local features like the keypad still work even if your WiFi is down, but you might lose app functionality. Smart locks with backup keyed locks can give you another way in.

Do smart locks still function during power failures?

Yes, your smart lock should still work when you lose power as it runs on battery power, not your home electricity. You may still use the keypad, fingerprint scanner, or Bluetooth, according to what your system uses.

Why choose Vivint smart locks for your Jefferson City home?

Vivint’s Kwikset smart locks work seamlessly with other devices in your smart home. You can make a rule to turn the lights on any time the door is opened, or establish a complete scene with multiple automations. For example, you might dim lights, lock your door, arm your system, and even adjust your thermostat simultaneously when you go to bed. The best part is that your locks and all your smart home equipment is completely accessible in the palm of your hand with the Vivint app.

You’ll always be aware of who’s entering and exiting as Vivint systems keep track of smart lock codes. You can also assign up to 50 distinct access codes.

Vivint is the key to your Jefferson City smart home

Would you like to unlock or lock your door remotely and integrate custom actions that activate your smart locks and other components all at once? It’s possible with Vivint. Contact (573) 498-8565 to learn more about our systems and get help designing your own Jefferson City smart home.