Every homeowner wants a secured home, and smart locks can take home security to the next level. With the ability to monitor and control your home security remotely, these locks provide peace of mind. Smart homes have made our lives more convenient and comfortable. In fact, one of the best aspects of smart home technology is the security system. A smart lock is an excellent way to enhance home security, keeping your home safe from intruders while you are away. With these locks, you can lock and unlock your door remotely via an app or central hub, eliminating the need for keys.
See also: How smart home technologies are boosting property demand?
What are smart locks?
Smart locks are innovative devices that offer enhanced home security by eliminating the need for keys. With the convenience of controlling your door through an app on your smartphone, you can make sure that only authorised individuals can access your home. These keyless locks connect to your home’s Wi-Fi and are compatible with smart assistants like Apple’s Siri and Amazon’s Alexa. Additionally, they keep a log of who enters and exits your home, providing you with peace of mind. Learn more about how these locks can revolutionise your home security today.
How do smart locks work?
These digital locks offer the convenience of keyless entry, allowing you to enter your home via a code on the keypad, waving a fob, or sending a command through your smartphone. With the lock connected to your home’s Wi-Fi network and powered by a battery, you can easily control access through an app on your smartphone or a control panel within your home. Keep track of who enters and exits your home easily, and never worry about lost keys again.
What are the types of smart locks?
Wi-Fi smart lock
These locks connect to your home’s Wi-Fi network and are supported by smart home hubs like Amazon Echo. With the convenience of smartphone apps, you can remotely lock or unlock your door.
Bluetooth smart lock
Bluetooth digital locks are energy-efficient and require little maintenance. They use Bluetooth technology to connect to your smartphone and unlock your door within close range.
Key fob smart lock
Key fob smart locks operate with a small wireless device that unlocks your door when brought within close range. However, you must be careful not to lose the key.
Biometric smart lock
For advanced security measures, biometric smart locks use technologies like fingerprint and facial recognition to operate.
Keypad-based lock
Keypad-based locks are also popular and allow you to enter your home using a numeric code instead of a key.
What are the benefits of smart locks?
No keys
These locks allow you to unlock your door using your smartphone instead of a physical key. This means you don’t have to worry about carrying a key or leaving a spare one for emergencies.
Better security
Using an electronic door lock instead of a traditional one can make your home more secure. These locks use a passcode that only you and the people you trust know. Unlike traditional locks, they cannot be picked or broken easily. Criminals would need a lot of time to try and guess the four-digit code, and they won’t want to do that on your doorstep. Additionally, a smart lock can send you a reminder if you forget to lock your door when you leave home.
Remote monitoring
With a smart lock, you receive notifications on your phone whenever someone enters or out of your house. This way, you can keep track of when your housekeeper exits your home or when your kids arrive home safely. You can also allow visitors into your house even if you’re not there.
FAQs
Are smart locks secure?
Yes, smart locks are secure. They use advanced techniques to ensure that only authorised users can access them. However, choosing a reputable brand and following best practices for securing your home network is always recommended.
Can I still use a traditional key with a smart lock?
Yes, most smart locks come with a backup key that can be used in case of an emergency or if the battery dies.
What are the benefits of using a smart lock?
Smart locks offer several benefits, including convenience, enhanced security, remote access, and the ability to monitor who comes and goes from your home. They also eliminate the need for physical keys and can be integrated with other smart home devices.
Do smart locks require an internet connection?
Some smart locks require an internet connection to function properly, while others can operate offline. However, you will need an internet connection if you want to control your lock remotely or receive notifications.
Can I give temporary access to guests or service providers?
Yes, most smart locks allow you to create temporary access codes or send electronic keys to guests or service providers. You can also set the duration for which the access will be valid.
What happens if my smartphone or voice assistant is lost or stolen?
Most smart locks come with a backup access method, such as a physical key or a backup code. Using your smartphone app, you can also remotely disable access from your lost or stolen device.
Can smart locks be hacked?
While no security system is completely fool proof, smart locks use advanced encryption techniques to prevent hacking. However, choosing a reputable brand and following best practices for securing your home network is important.
| Got any questions or point of view on our article? We would love to hear from you. Write to our Editor-in-Chief Jhumur Ghosh at jhumur.ghosh1@housing.com |