Technology is changing people’s lives in such a way that now it even allows you to control access to your physical properties with the use of smart locks. What is a smart lock?
Smart locks are devices with Wifi or Bluetooth, which allow you to open or close doors, at home or work, remotely.
This is done using a password on the phone, computer, or tablet. These are security systems that have begun to gain a large number of users around the world.
smart lock
Uses of smart locks
The smart lock has become a widely used household device. Its great advantage is that it offers a lot of connectivity: it can be connected from any device linked to the network.
While there are people who still prefer conventional locks, it is also true that many buyers opt for this technology.
Other possible uses are the following:
These mechanisms allow a record of entries and exits. Therefore, they are perfect for sites where a security statistic is needed.
They have controlled with a Smartphone thanks to an App. In this way, users instead of using a metal key, use their phones.
Passwords or temporary entry permits are assigned for visitors. Likewise, such accesses can be blocked at a certain time.
Likewise, these limitations are established by dates: days of the week or hours. This allows a lot of security and regulates the permits to enter a place.
The doors can be closed or opened immediately thanks to a smart lock. What does this mean? Well, in case of emergency (for example an earthquake) you can make all the doors allow you to exit. Likewise, establish that all doors are closed in the event of a security problem.
A smart lock can be paired with a camera surveillance system. In this way, whoever enters or leaves is filmed or photographed.
The advantages of these mechanisms are numerous. In addition, they are very easy to use. A few decades ago, similar locks involved hiring technicians and skilled people. However, thanks to the new technologies of smartphones, anyone can use wireless mechanisms.
Is it possible to hack or steal the keys to these locks?
This is the most recurrent question by users. Hackers are a reality. Some people manage to steal password keys on the web. They are also capable of entering third-party webmail.
That’s when a question arises: is it also possible to steal passwords and smart-type lock systems?
The answer is yes, a smart lock can also be hacked. It is a reality that cannot be avoided. Therefore, some extra security measures are always recommended. Which?
The most common is to opt for complex passwords, which are not easy to deduce by third parties, in addition to adding additional means of control: fingerprint, voice recognition, or a double and even triple security question.
Another important point is not to use such keys together in various devices: in the smart type lock, in computers, in tablets, cordless phones, etc.
It is enough to hack one of these keys to have entry and exit permission. How to avoid it? Well, the way to prevent it is with specific keys for each device.
What does the above mean? It implies that a smart lock can detect if the key to enter is issued from a phone, computer, or another type of device.
Therefore, asking for a particular password to enter with the phone, tablet or any other device multiplies the security and control factor.
What happens if the power supply or the Internet fails?
This is another of the buyers’ doubts. The typical locksmith work is eminently mechanical. All you have to do is have the key, insert it into the lock and the mechanism is activated. That’s it! It is not necessary to have electricity, much less the Internet!
The above is a matter to be resolved in any smart lock. Many of these locks incorporate a traditional keyhole. That way, they work like a standard lock.
It is important to indicate that this manual system is only activated in case of failure of electricity, Wifi, or Bluetooth.
For this reason, it is important that when buying an electronic type lock, it is verified if it has the conventional key system.
A power failure, a blackout, or a power failure is something that can happen at any time and you can be locked in until the power returns.
Likewise, there are some locks of this type that incorporate a battery. That way, they can run for a few hours in case of power supply problems. But they are systems that are activated with Bluetooth. The reason? Well, if the electricity is interrupted, it is frequent that the Internet connection also drops.
Final thoughts
The smart lock has different variants. For example, some are not activated with Internet or Wifi devices. These are locks that have remote controls or controls. Something similar to electronic car locks and alarms. Each lock has a set of controls that are distributed among the users.
On the other hand, there is the issue of price. Are they more expensive than conventional locks? Of course, they are more expensive, since they involve more technology.
Likewise, its installation is more complicated, to which is added that they need an available connection by Wifi. In addition, they never communicate utilizing cables to the Internet, they are always wireless.
It is worth noting that these locks have been increasing in popularity. At first, they were only used in companies or institutions. However, these devices are already used regularly in the home environment.
Likewise, they have had a considerable impact on the hospitality industry and both in clinics and hospitals. It is hoped that, in a few years, they can be on par with traditional locks.
