Are keypad door locks safe?

You like the idea of ditching house keys and moving to a modern smart lock, but you have concerns about safety. Are keypad door locks really safer than their old-school counterparts? The simple response is yes. But before integrating one into your Omaha smart home, there are a few things you should know.

Why smart locks are the best option for your Omaha home

The biggest downside of traditional locks is the need for a key. Keys are often lost and easy to copy, which can be a real problem if they end up with the wrong person. On top of that, older door locks are more vulnerable to bumping, picking, and forcing. Modern smart locks do away with keys completely. The ones that offer a backup keyed system usually use a more secure style of cylinder, making them resistant to traditional break-in methods.

What are the risks of keypad door locks?

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

• Unauthorized code usage: Codes need to be kept secure. It’s also wise to update them periodically and steer clear of easy-to-guess codes like “1234.” If you need to give someone single-time access, you can configure a code and then remove it once it’s been used.
  
  
• Hacking: System breaches are always a risk to electronic devices connected to your smart home. Offset the risk by regularly updating apps, firmware, and passwords. Incorporate two-factor identification whenever you can.
  
  
• Technical problems: A battery failure, WiFi disconnection, or software bug can create issues. Generally speaking, essential local features like keypad entry still work even if your WiFi is down, but you may lose access to the smartphone app. Models with backup keyed systems can provide you with another way in.

Do smart locks still operate during power failures?

Yes, your smart lock should still function when your power goes out as it gets power from batteries, not your wired electricity. You can still use the keypad, Bluetooth, or biometric scanner, based on what your system offers.

Why Vivint smart locks are a smart choice for your home

Vivint’s Kwikset smart locks work smoothly with other equipment within your smart home environment. You can turn the lights on automatically whenever the door is unlocked, or establish a whole-home scene with multiple automations. For example, you can arm your system, dim lighting, lock your door, and even lower your thermostat at the same time when you go to bed. And you know the best part? Your locks and all your smart home devices are totally accessible from your phone in 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 create as many as 50 distinct access codes.

Vivint is the key to your Omaha home security

Would you like to lock and unlock your door remotely and incorporate custom actions that operate your smart locks and other equipment simultaneously? You can do it with Vivint. Place a call to (402) 925-9471 to explore our systems and get help designing your own Omaha smart home.