Are keypad door locks safe?

You love the idea of eliminating traditional house keys and upgrading to a modern smart locking system, but safety is still a worry. Are keypad door locks actually safer than their time-honored counterparts? The simple response is yes. But before integrating one into your Medford smart home, there are a few things you should consider.

Why smart locks are the best choice for your Medford home

The biggest downside of traditional locks is the need for a key. Keys are frequently misplaced and simple to copy, which can be a real problem if they end up in the wrong hands. On top of that, older door locks are more vulnerable to bumping, picking, and forcing. Modern smart locks remove the need for a key completely. The ones that provide a backup keyed lock frequently use a more secure kind of cylinder, making them resistant to established break-in methods.

Are there any risks with keypad door locks?

Although generally safer than older locking systems, keypad door locks do come with some risks, such as the following:

• Unauthorized code use: Codes have to be kept confidential. It’s also a good idea to update them often and steer clear of obvious codes like “1234.” If you want to give a person one-time access, you can set a code and then eliminate it once it’s been used.
  
  
• Hacking: Cyber intrusions are always a hazard for electronic devices connected to your smart home. Reduce the risk by updating firmware, apps, and passwords often. Use two-factor identification whenever possible.
  
  
• Technical problems: A WiFi disconnection, software bug, or battery failure can lead to issues. However, vital local features like keypad entry still work if your WiFi is down, but you may lose app functionality. Models with backup keyed locks can offer another way in.

Do smart locks still work during power failures?

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

Why Vivint smart locks are a great fit for your home

Vivint’s Kwikset smart locks work seamlessly with other equipment within your smart home environment. You can set a rule to switch the lights on any time the door is unlocked, or configure a whole-home scene with many automations. For example, you might arm your system, dim lighting, secure your door, 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 devices are fully accessible in the palm of your hand with the Vivint app.

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

Vivint is the key to your Medford home security

Would you like to unlock or lock your door remotely and incorporate custom actions that operate your smart locks and other devices simultaneously? It’s doable with Vivint. Call (541) 697-3284 to find out more about our systems and start designing your own Medford smart home.