Are keypad door locks safe?

You are drawn to the idea of ditching your old house keys and moving to a modern smart lock, but you have concerns about safety. Are keypad door locks really safer than their time-honored counterparts? The quick response is yes. But before integrating one into your Trenton smart home, there are several things you should consider.
Why smart locks are the best option for your Trenton home
The biggest downside of traditional locks is having to rely on a key. Keys are often misplaced and simple to copy, which spells trouble if they end up in the wrong hands. In addition, older locks are simpler to pick, bump, and force. Modern smart locks eliminate the need for a key entirely. The options that provide a backup keyed lock usually use a more secure style of cylinder, making them resistant to established break-in methods.
What are the risks of keypad door locks?
While they’re generally safer than older locking systems, keypad door locks do carry some risks, such as the following:
- Unauthorized code use: Codes need to be kept secure. It’s also smart to update them regularly and steer clear of obvious codes like “1234.” If you need to give a person single-time access, you can set a code and then remove it once it’s been used.
- Hacking: System breaches are always a hazard for electronic devices linked to your smart home. Reduce the risk by regularly updating passwords, apps, and firmware. Integrate two-factor identification whenever possible.
- Technical issues: A WiFi disconnection, software bug, or battery failure can create problems. However, essential local features like keypad entry still work even when your WiFi is down, but you may lose smartphone app functionality. Smart options with backup keyed systems can give you another way in.
Do smart locks still work during power outages?
Yes, your smart lock should still function during an outage as it runs on battery power, not your wired electricity. You can still use the keypad, Bluetooth, or biometric scanner, based on what your system offers.
Why pick Vivint smart locks for your Trenton home?
Vivint’s smart locks work reliably with other equipment within your smart home ecosystem. You can set a rule to switch the lights on automatically when the door is unlocked, or establish a full-fledged scene with multiple automations. To illustrate, you might fasten your door, arm your system, turn lights off, and even adjust your thermostat at the same time when you head 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 monitor the use of smart lock codes. You can also set as many as 50 unique access codes.
Vivint is the key to your Trenton home security
Would you enjoy unlocking or locking your door remotely and designing custom actions that engage your smart locks and other components at the same time? It’s possible with Vivint. Call (609) 928-8223 to learn more about our systems and get help designing your own Trenton smart home.