What is a smart lock?
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 app on their smartphone, computer, or tablet. Smart locks provide a new home security experience with the ability to customize who can access your home and when, lock or unlock the door from anywhere using your smartphone, and even unlock the door with your voice.
What can a smart lock do?
A smart lock is more than just another smart home device. A smart lock gives you a whole list of features and capabilities that no regular lock can match. The key when reviewing smart lock options is to choose one with both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity, rather than just Bluetooth. If your front door is too far from the smart home hub to connect reliably via Bluetooth, it greatly reduces your ability to use many of the remote features that are the real advantage of a smart lock.
In addition, smart locks may have some or all of these features:
1.Wi-Fi connectivity allows you to view real-time check-in and check-out logs so you always know who has come and gone from your home and when - which is great for parents to check that kids have arrived home after school safely.
2.Bluetooth connectivity allows your smart lock to recognize you by connecting to your smartphone and unlock the door as you approach.
3.Multiple keyless entry options can include proximity unlocking through your smartphone, remote unlocking using your smartphone, custom code numbers for anyone needing to enter the home, voice command, and touch or fingerprint recognition.
4.Create permanent or temporary access codes for visiting guests, cleaning services, repair services, and every member of your family.
5.Set access restrictions for each input code. Restrictions can include days of the week and specific hours to ensure code holders can only access your home during approved times.
6.Auto-lock options allow you to set the smart lock to automatically lock the door if left unlocked for a specified period of time.
7.An auto-lock lock can automatically lock your door if your smartphone's location is detected outside a specified perimeter of your home
8.Receive s on your smartphone if someone tries to hack or tamper with your smart lock.
9.Integrate with your connected smart home to activate other smart home devices when the door is opened, for example setting your smart lights to turn on when the door is opened.
10.Sync your smart lock with your doorbell and any indoor cameras for added security and to view or record anyone arriving into your home (or trying to do so).
Note: Features vary by brand and model.
Common concerns about smart locks
When it comes to the security of your home and family, it's natural to have concerns about switching to a smart lock. Here are some common concerns many people have about smart locks:
Can a hacker use a smart lock's Wi-Fi connection to get into my home?
The most important key to keeping all your connected smart home devices safe from hackers and electronic tampering is to make sure your Wi-Fi system is set up using security best practices, including requiring a password to connect to your Wi-Fi network and always using complex passwords. The smart lock and all connected smart home devices access the Internet through the same Wi-Fi network as computers, smartphones, tablets, and streaming TV service. Making your Wi-Fi setup as secure as possible is the most effective way to protect against hackers.
How much do smart locks cost?
Depending on the brand, model, and features, prices for a Wi-Fi-enabled smart lock range between $300 and $600.
If my internet connection or electricity goes out, how do I get into my home?
Many smart lock models also come with a traditional key port so you can use it as a standard lock if necessary. Additionally, the Bluetooth connection will still work with your smartphone when you are within range of the phone and lock to connect to each other. Smart locks are also designed with these common issues in mind. As you narrow down your choices, review how the manufacturer designed the smart lock to work in these situations.