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 worried about safety. Are keypad door locks really safer than their old-school counterparts? The simple answer is yes. But before installing one with your Baton Rouge smart home, there are several things you should think about.

Why upgrading to a smart lock makes sense for your Baton Rouge home

The main issue with traditional locks is the requirement of a key. Keys are frequently lost and simple to copy, which leads to disaster if they end up in the wrong hands. In addition, older locks are more vulnerable to picking, bumping, and forcing. Modern smart locks eliminate the need for a key completely. The ones that provide a backup keyed system frequently use a different style of cylinder, making them resistant to traditional break-in methods.

What are the risks of keypad door locks?

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

• Unauthorized code entry: Codes have to be kept secure. It’s also a good idea to update them periodically and never use obvious codes like “1234.” If you need to give someone single-time access, you can create a code and then delete it once it’s no longer needed.
  
  
• Hacking: Network breaches are always a risk to electronic devices connected to your smart home. Mitigate the risk by updating firmware, apps, and passwords frequently. Use two-factor identification whenever possible.
  
  
• Technical problems: A battery failure, WiFi disconnection, or software bug can lead to problems. As a general rule, essential local features like a PIN code still work even when your WiFi is not available, but you might lose smartphone app functionality. Models with backup keyed locks can give you another way in.

Do smart locks still operate during power failures?

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 biometric scanner, depending on what your system offers.

Why select Vivint smart locks for your Baton Rouge home?

Vivint’s smart locks work smoothly with other equipment within your smart home environment. You can turn the lights on any time the door is opened, or create a whole-home scene with many automations. For instance, you can secure your door, arm your system, turn off lights, and even lower your thermostat simultaneously when you go to bed. And you know what else? 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 entering and exiting as Vivint systems keep track of smart lock codes. You can also create up to 50 distinct access codes.

Vivint is the key to your Baton Rouge smart home security

Would you enjoy unlocking or locking your door remotely and designing custom actions that engage your smart locks and other devices at the same time? It’s possible with Vivint. Call (225) 725-8055 to find out more about our systems and get help designing your own Baton Rouge smart home.