In this blog entry, the Chicago smart lock installation and Chicago access control system installation team here at Chicago Locksmiths will provide the vital basics behind electronic deadbolts and the safety / security that they can provide to a broad range of both residential and commercial property types.
Electronic Deadbolts
Electronic deadbolts are a modern version of traditional cylinder deadbolts. They work with all of the normal mechanical parts of standard deadbolts, but usually have a keypad or a touchscreen. This makes these locks very easy and convenient to lock and unlock, as no key is necessary. The keypad or touchscreen will accept a PIN number like the keypad of a safe, and will activate a motor that either engages or disengages the bolt.
Electronic Deadbolt Safety
Electronic deadbolts are incredibly safe and secure. While some people may be concerned with implementing security hardware that’s computerized, the majority of electronic deadbolts also have traditionally ekeyed factors, meaning that if for some reason any electronic component fails due to battery losos or moisture, that your electronic deadbolt can still function like a traditional single cylinder mechanical deadbolt. In this scenario, lock owners cna se key override function to lock or unlock their property.
Can Electronic Deadbolts Get Hacked?
While it’s not impossible for an electronic deadbolt to get hacked, it’s highly unlikely. The majority of electronic deadbolts are considered “stand alone” – meaning that they are not connected to a network and don’t need electrical wiring. The mechanics that make these locks run are fully housed inside the lock, which eliminates the risk of hacking – the same way your personal watch cannot be hacked. Some smart locks, wireless locks, or WiFi controlled locks can technically be hacked – however this is highly unlikely, as this would be a complicated and technically challenging process that only the most skilled criminals could come close to pulling off. Since in general burglars look for the easiest targets that they can burglarize with the least effort, it’s highly unlikely that anyone would go through the trouble of trying to hack your electronic lock. Overall, electronic locks offer a fantastic range of security benefits which is why they are so immensely popular today.
