Are keypad door locks safe?

You like the idea of ditching house keys and switching to a modern smart lock, but safety is still a worry. Are keypad door locks actually safer than their classic counterparts? The simple response is yes. But before adding one to your Hoover smart home, there are some things you should consider.

Why smart locks are the best choice for your Hoover home

The biggest downside of traditional locks is having to rely on a key. Keys are frequently misplaced and easy to copy, which leads to disaster if they get into the wrong hands. In addition, older locks are simpler to pick, bump, and force. Modern smart locks eliminate the need for a key completely. The models that offer a backup keyed lock typically use a different kind of cylinder, making them resistant to established break-in methods.

What are the risks of keypad door locks?

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

• Unauthorized code use: Codes have to be kept secure. It’s also smart to update them often and avoid predictable codes like “1234.” If you have to give a person single-time access, you can create a code and then delete it once it’s served its purpose.
  
  
• Hacking: Cyber intrusions are always a hazard for electronic devices connected to your smart home. Reduce the risk by updating firmware, apps, and passwords frequently. Use two-factor identification whenever you can.
  
  
• Technical problems: A software bug, battery failure, or WiFi disconnection can lead to problems. As a general rule, vital local features like a PIN code still work even if 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 you lose power as it runs on battery power, not your home electricity. You can still use the keypad, fingerprint scanner, or Bluetooth, depending on what your system uses.

Why Vivint smart locks are an excellent choice for your home

Vivint’s smart locks work smoothly with other components in your smart home. You can set a rule to switch the lights on any time the door is opened, or establish a complete scene with many automations. For instance, you can lock your door, arm your system, turn lights off, and even change your thermostat at the same time when you head to bed. The best part is that your locks and all your smart home devices are fully accessible from your phone in the Vivint app.

You’ll always get insights into who’s entering and exiting as Vivint systems track smart lock codes. You can also create up to 50 distinct access codes.

Vivint is the key to your Hoover smart home security

Would you enjoy locking or unlocking your door remotely and designing custom actions that activate your smart locks and other equipment at the same time? You can do it with Vivint. Contact (205) 898-6989 to learn more about our systems and start designing your own Hoover smart home.