Are Smart Locks Safer Than Key-Opened Locks?

Locks have been an essential part of every home for centuries. They are often taken for granted, but they play a massive role in the security of our home, family, and belongings. Often, we do not give our locks much thought until we’re locked out. Though they have moved to the background of home security, they are still a critical component to our safety and privacy.

If there were no locks, strangers could easily walk into your home or could wander into a dangerous, restricted area with no issue. As security and privacy have become more critical in our society, the technology behind how we stay safe has evolved. With everyone looking for ways to make their lives easier and more efficient, smart locks were developed to bring more convenience to our security.

A smart lock is a Wi-Fi or Bluetooth-enabled smart home device that allows users to lock and unlock a door by sending secure signals from a mobile application on their smartphone, computer, or tablet. Smart locks provide a new home security experience with the ability to customize who can access your home at what time, lock or unlock your door from anywhere, and even unlock the door with your voice.

Upgrading your locks is not as simple as swapping out light bulbs or plugging in a smart power outlet adapter. The installation is a little more hands-on, and the feature sets vary significantly. It is also good to remember that these locks are not cheap. Most will easily cost you $200 or more. No matter your doorstep dilemma, there is likely a lock system out there for you. Below is just some of the benefits of smart locks.

Convenience

The entire idea of a smart lock is to add convenience to your life. For smart locks, that includes features like remote access, voice control, scenes. A smart door lock allows you to view entry and exit logs in real time, so you always know who has come and gone, and when. This is great for parents to verify that their kids get home safely after school, or to ensure your pets are being watched over while on vacation.

Safety

Burglary is a common threat for all homeowners. Any unwelcome guests can easily break into your home, no matter how secure your lock is. However, a smart locking system is the hard nut to crack for them since it is without any keys. Their mechanism is based on the security protocols deployed in a bank system. It means their digital encryption mode cannot be duplicated or broken. In this way, the burglars are unable to pick or bump the system. With a smart door locking system, you can decide who can enter your home and what time they enter. It also lowers the risk of anything getting stolen.

Separate Access Codes

You can create permanent or temporary entry codes for visiting guests, cleaning services, dog walkers, repair services, and every individual member of your family. You can also set limitations for access for every entry code. Restrictions can include days of the week and specific hours to ensure code holders can only access your home during approved times. You will also be able to view logs on when these access codes were input, so if someone were trying to enter your home past when you allowed them to, you would know.

Are Smart Locks Really Secure?

The security of smart locks has been in question before they were officially on the market. People were skeptical of the security capabilities of digital locks compared to standard key locks, and if they would provide the same level of safety. One thing to note is that smart locks may only be compatible with certain types of locks. Most will work with an existing deadbolt, but some locks may only work with a thumb turn deadbolt. Others come with their own hardware, which is meant to replace the current lock type in place.

Though there are some drawbacks to smart locks, technology has drastically evolved since they were first developed. As we move headfirst into the digital age, smart locks and other more futuristic technologies may soon become the norm for many households. For anyone interested in upgrading to all of the latest smart home features, digital locks are an essential component of any high-tech security system.

Smart locks are not right for everyone, and you should consider your specific needs before investing in any piece of smart-home technology. With built-in protections like emergency batter nodes, PIN requirements, and decoy codes for keypads, it is possible to safely and responsibly upgrade your door. If you are looking for a stylish, smart way to make your daily life a little bit simpler, smart locks can play a helpful role.