Are keypad door locks safe?

You like the idea of ditching house keys and upgrading to a modern smart locking system, but you have concerns about safety. Are keypad door locks actually safer than their time-honored counterparts? The simple response is yes. But before integrating one into your Sioux City smart home, there are some things you should consider.

Why switching to a smart lock makes sense for your Sioux City home

The biggest downside of traditional locks is the need for a key. Keys are often misplaced and simple to copy, which spells trouble if they end up with the wrong person. Besides, older door locks are more vulnerable to bumping, forcing, and picking. Modern smart locks remove the need for a key altogether. The models that offer a backup keyed system frequently use a more secure kind of cylinder, making them resistant to established break-in methods.

What are the risks of keypad door locks?

Although typically safer than traditional locking systems, keypad door locks do come with some risks, like the following:

• Unauthorized code entry: Codes have to be kept secure. It’s also wise to update them regularly and steer clear of predictable codes like “1234.” If you need to give somebody one-time access, you can set a code and then eliminate it once it’s served its purpose.
  
  
• Hacking: System breaches are always a concern for electronic devices connected to your smart home. Offset the risk by regularly updating apps, firmware, and passwords. Integrate two-factor identification whenever you can.
  
  
• Technical problems: Issues can pop up due to a battery failure, software bug, or WiFi disconnection. Generally speaking, essential local features like keypad entry still work even when your WiFi is down, but you may lose app functionality. Smart locks with backup keyed locks can provide you with another way in.

Do smart locks still function during power outages?

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, Bluetooth, or fingerprint scanner, based on what your system offers.

Why pick Vivint smart locks for your Sioux City home?

Vivint’s Kwikset smart locks work smoothly with other components within your smart home environment. You can set a rule to switch the lights on any time the door is opened, or create a full-fledged scene with multiple automations. For instance, you might fasten your door, arm your system, switch lights off, and even change your thermostat simultaneously when you go to bed. And you know what else? Your locks and all your smart home components are fully accessible from the convenience of the Vivint app.

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

Vivint is the key to your Sioux City home security

Would you enjoy unlocking or locking your door remotely and designing custom actions that activate your smart locks and other devices at the same time? It’s doable with Vivint. Call (712) 600-3453 to explore our systems and let us help you design your own Sioux City smart home.