Are keypad door locks safe?

You like the idea of ditching traditional house keys and upgrading to a modern smart lock, but safety is still a concern. Are keypad door locks really safer than the old-school locks they replace? The easy answer is yes. But before installing one with your Sugarland smart home, there are several things you should know.

Why smart locks are a better choice for your Sugarland home

The main issue with traditional locks is the need for a key. Keys are often misplaced and easy to copy, which can be a real problem if they fall into the wrong hands. On top of that, older locks are easier to bump, pick, and force. Modern smart locks remove the need for a key completely. The ones that provide a backup keyed lock usually use a more secure kind of cylinder, so they can’t be bypassed by traditional methods.

What are the risks of keypad door locks?

Although typically safer than standard locking systems, keypad door locks do have some risks, such as the following:

• Unauthorized code usage: Codes must be kept confidential. It’s also a good idea to change them periodically and avoid easy-to-guess codes like “1234.” If you need to give someone one-time access, you can create a code and then remove it once it’s been used.
  
  
• Hacking: Network breaches are always a concern for electronic devices bridged to your smart home. Reduce the risk by regularly updating apps, firmware, and passwords. Use two-factor identification whenever possible.
  
  
• Technical glitches: A software bug, battery failure, or WiFi disconnection can lead to issues. However, essential local features like keypad entry still work even if your WiFi is offline, but you could lose smartphone app functionality. Models with backup keyed locks can provide you with another way in.

Do smart locks still operate during a power outage?

Yes, your smart lock should still function during an outage as it is powered by batteries, not your wired electricity. You’ll still be able to use the keypad, fingerprint scanner, or Bluetooth, based on what your system uses.

Why select Vivint smart locks for your Sugarland home?

Vivint’s Kwikset smart locks work reliably with other devices within your smart home environment. You can set a rule to switch the lights on any time the door is opened, or establish a whole-home scene with multiple automations. For instance, you can arm your system, dim lighting, lock your door, and even lower your thermostat simultaneously when you go to bed. And you know what else? Your locks and all your smart home devices are completely accessible from your phone in the Vivint app.

You’ll always be aware of who’s exiting and entering as Vivint systems track smart lock codes. You can also assign as many as 50 distinct access codes.

Vivint is the key to your Sugarland smart home security

Would you enjoy locking or unlocking your door remotely and designing custom actions that operate your smart locks and other equipment all at once? It’s possible with Vivint. Call (281) 688-2891 to learn more about our systems and start designing your own Sugarland smart home.