Are keypad door locks safe?

You love the idea of getting rid of house keys and moving to a modern smart lock, but you’re concerned about safety. Are keypad door locks really safer than their time-honored counterparts? The simple answer is yes. But before adding one to your West Palm Beach smart home, there are a few things you should consider.

Why switching to a smart lock makes sense for your West Palm Beach home

The inherent problem with traditional locks is the need for a key. Keys are often lost and simple to copy, which spells trouble if they fall to the wrong person. In addition, older locks are more vulnerable to bumping, forcing, and picking. Modern smart locks remove the need for a key altogether. The ones that have a backup keyed lock frequently use a different type of cylinder, so they can’t be bypassed by traditional methods.

Are there any risks with keypad door locks?

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

• Unauthorized code usage: Codes must be kept secure. It’s also wise to update them regularly and never use easy-to-guess codes like “1234.” If you have to give a person one-time access, you can set a code and then eliminate it once it’s no longer needed.
  
  
• Hacking: Network breaches are always a hazard for electronic devices bridged to your smart home. Offset the risk by frequently updating firmware, apps, and passwords. Integrate two-factor identification whenever you can.
  
  
• Technical issues: A battery failure, WiFi disconnection, or software bug can create problems. Generally speaking, essential local features like a PIN code still work even if your WiFi is down, but you could lose access to the smartphone app. Models with backup keyed systems can offer another way in.

Do smart locks still operate during a power outage?

Yes, your smart lock should still function when you lose power as it runs on battery power, not your wired electricity. You may still use the keypad, Bluetooth, or biometric scanner, based on what your system offers.

Why Vivint smart locks are an excellent choice for your home

Vivint’s Kwikset smart locks work smoothly with other devices within your smart home environment. You can make a rule to switch the lights on automatically any time the door is unlocked, or create a full-fledged scene with several automations. For example, you might arm your system, turn lights off, fasten your door, and even adjust your thermostat all at once when you call it a day. The best part is that your locks and all your smart home devices are fully accessible in the palm of your hand with the Vivint app.

You’ll always get insights into who’s entering and exiting as Vivint systems keep track of smart lock codes. You can also set as many as 50 unique access codes.

Vivint is the key to your West Palm Beach smart home security

Would you enjoy locking or unlocking your door remotely and establishing custom actions that engage your smart locks and other devices at the same time? It’s possible with Vivint. Call (561) 556-7696 to explore our systems and start designing your own West Palm Beach smart home.