Are keypad door locks safe?

You love the idea of ditching traditional house keys and switching to a modern smart locking system, but you’re concerned about safety. Are keypad door locks actually safer than the old locks they replace? The easy reply is yes. But before installing one with your Buffalo smart home, there are some things you should consider.

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

The inherent problem with traditional locks is the requirement of a key. Keys are frequently lost and simple to copy, which spells trouble if they get into the wrong hands. On top of that, older door locks are simpler to pick, bump, and force. Modern smart locks remove the need for a key completely. The options that offer a backup keyed lock typically use a different type of cylinder, so they can’t be bypassed by traditional methods.

Are there any risks with keypad door locks?

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

• Unauthorized code usage: Codes have to be kept confidential. It’s also smart to change them often and avoid obvious codes like “1234.” If you have to give someone single-time access, you can set a code and then eliminate it once it’s no longer needed.
  
  
• Hacking: Cyber intrusions are always a concern for electronic devices bridged to your smart home. Mitigate the risk by regularly updating firmware, apps, and passwords. Use two-factor identification whenever you can.
  
  
• Technical issues: Issues can pop up due to a WiFi disconnection. However, core local features like the keypad still work even if your WiFi is offline, but you might lose app functionality. Smart locks with backup keyed systems can give you another way in.

Do smart locks still work during power outages?

Yes, your smart lock should still operate during an outage as it gets power from batteries, not your home electricity. You may still use the keypad, fingerprint scanner, or Bluetooth, depending on what your system uses.

Why Vivint smart locks are a great fit for your home

Vivint’s Kwikset smart locks work smoothly with other components within your smart home environment. You can set a rule to turn the lights on automatically when the door is opened, or configure a full-fledged scene with many automations. For instance, you might dim lights, fasten your door, arm your system, and even change your thermostat all at once when you go to bed. And you know the best part? Your locks and all your smart home devices are completely accessible in the palm of your hand with the Vivint app.

You’ll always know who’s coming and going as Vivint systems keep track of smart lock codes. You can also create up to 50 distinct access codes.

Vivint is the key to your Buffalo smart home

Would you enjoy locking or unlocking your door remotely and integrating custom actions that engage your smart locks and other equipment all at once? You can do it with Vivint. Contact (716) 567-8226 to learn more about our systems and start designing your own Buffalo smart home.