Are keypad door locks safe?

You love the idea of eliminating house keys and switching to a modern smart lock, but you’re concerned about safety. Are keypad door locks truly safer than the old-school locks they’re replacing? The easy answer is yes. But before installing one with your Naperville smart home, there are some things you should know.

Why smart locks are the right option for your Naperville home

The main issue with traditional locks is having to rely on a key. Keys are often misplaced and easy to copy, which can be a real problem if they fall into the wrong hands. Besides, older door locks are simpler to force, pick, and bump. Modern smart locks do away with keys altogether. The options that offer a backup keyed lock usually use a more secure type of cylinder, making them resistant to traditional break-in methods.

Are there any risks with keypad door locks?

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

• Unauthorized code use: Codes need to be kept confidential. It’s also wise to change them often and avoid easy-to-guess codes like “1234.” If you want to give somebody single-time access, you can create a code and then remove it once it’s served its purpose.
  
  
• Hacking: Cyber intrusions are always a risk to electronic devices bridged to your smart home. Reduce the risk by frequently updating firmware, apps, and passwords. Use two-factor identification whenever you can.
  
  
• Technical issues: A software bug, battery failure, or WiFi disconnection can cause problems. Generally speaking, essential local features like keypad entry still work even if your WiFi is down, but you could lose smartphone app functionality. Models with backup keyed systems can provide you with another way in.

Do smart locks still operate during power outages?

Yes, your smart lock should still work when you lose power as it is powered by batteries, not your wired electricity. You may still use the keypad, fingerprint scanner, or Bluetooth, depending on what your system offers.

Why Vivint smart locks are a great fit for your home

Vivint’s smart locks work reliably with other components within your smart home environment. You can set a rule to switch the lights on automatically when the door is unlocked, or configure a complete scene with several automations. For example, you might arm your system, dim lighting, lock your door, and even change your thermostat at the same time when you head to bed. And you know the best part? Your locks and all your smart home equipment is completely 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 monitor the use of smart lock codes. You can also create up to 50 unique access codes.

Vivint is the key to your Naperville home security

Would you enjoy locking or unlocking your door remotely and establishing custom actions that engage your smart locks and other equipment all at once? It’s possible with Vivint. Contact (630) 864-6179 to learn more about our systems and let us help you design your own Naperville smart home.