Are keypad door locks safe?

You are drawn to the idea of eliminating traditional house keys and upgrading to a modern smart lock, but safety is still a worry. Are keypad door locks really safer than their time-honored counterparts? The simple answer is yes. But before adding one to your Tyler smart home, there are some things you should think about.

Why upgrading to a smart lock makes sense for your Tyler home

The main issue with traditional locks is having to rely on a key. Keys are often misplaced and simple to copy, which spells trouble if they fall into the wrong hands. Besides, older door locks are easier to pick, bump, and force. Modern smart locks remove the need for a key completely. The options that provide a backup keyed lock usually use a different style of cylinder, so they can’t be circumvented by traditional methods.

Are there any concerns with keypad door locks?

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

• Unauthorized code use: Codes must be kept secure. It’s also smart to change them often and steer clear of predictable codes like “1234.” If you need to give somebody one-time-only access, you can configure a code and then remove it once it’s been used.
  
  
• Hacking: Cyber intrusions are always a concern for electronic devices connected to your smart home. Offset the risk by regularly updating firmware, apps, and passwords. Use two-factor identification whenever possible.
  
  
• Technical issues: Issues can arise due to a battery failure, software bug, or WiFi disconnection. As a general rule, vital local features like keypad entry still work if your WiFi is not available, but you might lose smartphone app functionality. Models with backup keyed systems can provide you with another way in.

Do smart locks still work during power outages?

Yes, your smart lock should still function during a blackout as it gets power from batteries, not your home electricity. You’ll still be able to use the keypad, Bluetooth, or fingerprint scanner, according to what your system supports.

Why choose Vivint smart locks for your Tyler home?

Vivint’s Kwikset smart locks work smoothly with other components within your smart home ecosystem. You can set a rule to switch the lights on automatically any time the door is unlocked, or create a complete scene with several automations. To illustrate, you can turn lights off, fasten your door, arm your system, and even lower your thermostat all at once when you call it a day. And you know the best part? Your locks and all your smart home equipment is totally accessible from your phone in the Vivint app.

You’ll always get insights into who’s coming and going as Vivint systems monitor the use of smart lock codes. You can also create as many as 50 distinct access codes.

Vivint is the key to your Tyler smart home security

Would you enjoy locking or unlocking your door remotely and designing custom actions that engage your smart locks and other devices at the same time? It’s possible with Vivint. Place a call to (903) 459-7565 to explore our systems and get help designing your own Tyler smart home.