In the era of home security, we have grown increasingly reliant on the use of smart technology. It makes sense, too. However, when it comes to smart security and digital locks, there is a sense that these lock types are impregnable. Sadly, no form of home security is 100% burglar-proof – if only that were the case!
If you own property in Rotherham, you likely have a contact book of professionals you can call upon. A specialist locksmith Rotherham are one of the professionals you should have on speed dial. They can help you find the right kind of digital locks and smart security add-ons that you can apply to your home and make it more protected.
This guide by an expert locksmith will outline all the reasons why digital locks are the best security investment you can do today for your home.
So, let’s answer one very important question: can a criminal break through your digital locks?
What Are Digital Locks, Exactly?
Most digital locks (there are various types, as explained below) are controlled without the use of keys. That alone makes them more secure in many ways and as one of the top security locks installed by professional locksmiths today. As most break-ins occur due to having lock and key systems which are outdated, damaged, worn out or simply not fit for modern purposes.
The challenge with digital locks is that they come in numerous styles. How one digital lock operates could differ entirely from another model on the market. The most common forms of digital lockouts include:
Keypad Locks
These are probably the most recognisable type of electronic lock out there, and most regularly used. Instead of using a metal key in a lock slot, you open the door by placing an X-digit PIN code into the keypad. If you do not know the passcode, the door will not lock. They are robust and highly effective.
Bluetooth Locks
These are likely the second-most commonly encountered digital locks on the market today. These use a Bluetooth connection to gain entry to the door. You need a device which is Bluetooth compatible to speak with the lock and ask for permission to lock/unlock the door. Not infallible, but highly effective.
RFID Locks
RFID lock systems are like the above, but they use Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) to get the door to open/close. These tend to be used in conjunction with other lock types, as they are not secure enough on their own. Most of these locks will respond to a specific keycard or a little fob device.
Biometric Locks
Easily the most expensive digital lock, biometric locks are the de facto leader of digital locks. They use recognition systems like voice recognition, retina scanning, fingerprint scans, etc., to give or revoke access. We rarely see biometric locks in homes, but they are very popular in business settings.
Electric Bolts
Electric bolts are extremely useful, but they are not the ideal choice for your external doorways. These should be used on internal doors you wish to protect, or assets such as storage containers and filing cabinets. These are akin to a deadbolt you might see on an older door type, but more modern overall.
Electric Strikes
Electric strike faceplates tend to be used on doors that have a latch bar fitted. These are the modern, electric replacements for the old-school latch bar. Rather than physically forcing the latch open, you are given access by providing the correct entry credentials, which the latch is designed to respond to.
Magnetic Locks
Magnetic locks use the power of magnetic force to help keep the door closed. However, the use of magnets is not all-conquering. Many criminals can find a way through magnetic locks. They do not contain the same level of overall security and protection as you would get with other digital locks.
Of The Above, Which Digital Locks Are The Most Secure?
Great question! Unfortunately, the answer is almost always contextual. A locksmith can give you a better idea of which digital locks would be ideal in your situation.
While electric faceplates and bolts may be suitable for some doors, they might not be compatible or practical with others. That means you probably need a professional appraisal to know which option to consider for your property.
However, one thing to note is that pretty much any digital lock is likely to be more off-putting than a traditional lock and key system. Most criminals stick to what they know. Digital education in the criminal underworld is rare. The risk of failure is higher, as is the chance of being caught. As such, most criminals will avoid trying to tamper with pretty much any digital locks they come across!
The Easiest System To Use: Keypad Locks
Look, our suggestion would be to consider keypad entry for most homeowners. Keypad entry systems give you the best blend of ease of use and modern security. Especially if you are a parent, keypads make a great investment.
Think about this scenario: you have teenage kids, and they are always home before you thanks to your work schedule. You get a call after school; your kid has lost their keys. If you use traditional lock and key systems, you need to get the whole system replaced. New keys for everyone. New locks. That is expensive, time-consuming and not something you want to deal with often, right?
Well, with keypad entry, your kid just has to remember an X-digit entry code. If they forget the code, you can revoke access permissions to their old code and send them a new one. Not ideal if they keep forgetting the code, but it takes you seconds to fix. Also, no need for a security professional!
The Most Robust System To Use: Smart Locks
Smart locks are all the rage, and they tend to be a combination of the various digital locks we have mentioned above. The idea of being able to manage your doors remotely is a great concept, right? So is going keyless.
Being able to review who is at your door – is it the delivery driver with your monthly subscription, or someone you don’t know/trust? – as well as remotely open/close and lock/unlock your doors, is a great experience. But are they all they are cracked up to be?
Yes, smart locks allow you to have remote access. You could be in a meeting, at a gig, in the pub, or even lying on a beach somewhere much warmer than here. So long as you have internet access and can control your smart lock app, you have full control.
However, smart locks can be hacked by those who are willing to invest in the software to do so. Sometimes, all it takes is knowing your Bluetooth or Wi-Fi password. Luckily, the number of burglars pulling this off is vanishingly small. Still, be smart!
Smart locks should only be bought from a manufacturer who has a proven track record. There is only a small difference in price between the ‘cheap’ models and the worthwhile ones. So, splash out a bit.
Buy into the quality models; the ones that come with regularly updated apps and 128-bit encryption. Most of the worthwhile smart locks out there send immediate notifications in the event of your door being accessed or opened in a way it was not supposed to – like being kicked in or similar, too!
Digital Locks: What Option Is Best For You?
There are many choices and numerous decisions to be made. The challenge for most will be working out what is the best choice within their budget. Given the personalised nature of this decision, it would be wise to involve a security professional.
A locksmith, for example, can give you a rundown on what your options would be within the smart security industry. They can give you a budget-friendly option.
If you are going to go down the route of keyless entry, it might be best to work with a professional. They can give you personalised reviews and professional insights so you know what to expect and what other security systems you might need.
On their own, smart and keyless entry systems can be compromised. When combined with other security methods, you make your property much safer.
Work with a qualified security professional and let them handle the installation. With the right setup, even basic digital locks can be more robust than even the most sophisticated lock and key systems!
