Are keypad door locks safe?

You like the idea of ditching your old house keys and upgrading to a modern smart locking system, but safety is still a worry. Are keypad door locks truly safer than their time-honored counterparts? The quick answer is yes. But before installing one with your Shreveport smart home, there are several things you should know.

Why switching to a smart lock makes sense for your Shreveport home

The inherent problem with traditional locks is the need for a key. Keys are frequently lost and easy to copy, which can be a real problem if they fall to the wrong person. In addition, older door locks are more vulnerable to picking, bumping, and forcing. Modern smart locks do away with keys altogether. The options that offer a backup keyed system frequently use a more secure kind of cylinder, so they can’t be circumvented by traditional methods.

What are the risks of keypad door locks?

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

• Unauthorized code entry: Codes need to be kept confidential. It’s also smart to change them often and steer clear of easy-to-guess codes like “1234.” If you need to give a person single-time access, you can set a code and then eliminate it once it’s served its purpose.
  
  
• Hacking: Cyber intrusions are always a risk to electronic devices linked to your smart home. Reduce the risk by updating firmware, apps, and passwords often. Use two-factor identification whenever possible.
  
  
• Technical glitches: Issues can pop up due to a WiFi disconnection. As a general rule, vital local features like keypad entry still work even when your WiFi is down, but you could lose access to the smartphone app. Smart options with backup keyed locks can offer another way in.

Do smart locks still function during a power outage?

Yes, your smart lock should still operate when power is lost as it runs on battery power, not your home electricity. You may still use the keypad, Bluetooth, or biometric scanner, depending on what your system offers.

Why pick Vivint smart locks for your Shreveport home?

Vivint’s Kwikset smart locks work smoothly with other devices within your smart home ecosystem. You can make a rule to switch the lights on any time the door is unlocked, or create a complete scene with several automations. For example, you can arm your system, dim lighting, secure your door, and even change your thermostat simultaneously when you go to bed. And you know the best part? Your locks and all your smart home devices are totally accessible in the palm of your hand with the Vivint app.

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

Vivint is the key to your Shreveport smart home

Would you enjoy locking or unlocking your door remotely and integrating custom actions that operate your smart locks and other devices at the same time? It’s possible with Vivint. Contact (318) 612-1329 to explore our systems and start designing your own Shreveport smart home.