Last Updated on May 9, 2025

Are Keyless Locks Safe? A Comprehensive Guide

Imagine never having to play hide and seek with your keys again. Keyless locks are an exciting new alternative to traditional keys and they can help you achieve this. However, are keyless locks safe?

In addition to misplacing keys, we’re living in times where security threats are constantly evolving. Whether you’re a homeowner or business owner, seeking smarter and more reliable ways to protect your property has become increasingly important. Below, we explore the pros and cons of going keyless so you can make an informed decision about whether this is the right move for you and your needs.

What Is a Keyless Lock?

A keyless lock, including keypad doors, is a modern technology that allows us to lock and unlock doors without the use of a regular key. Locks and keys have been around for thousands of years. For the most part, they’ve been a great help in securing our properties. However, with many new technology developments, criminals are becoming more sophisticated, and the need for improved security measures is undeniable.

How Does It Work?

Keyless locks can operate in multiple ways:

• Passcodes: Type a passcode into a keypad to open the door.
• Smartphone: Open your door by logging into your app and tapping a button. With some systems, you can open your door from anywhere using the app.
• Fingerprint: Some keyless lock systems can accept a fingerprint for entry.
• Fobs and cards: Open a door with the swipe or your fob or card in front of the lock.

Are Keyless Door Locks Safe?

The idea of a keyless entry can make you question their safety. The truth is, keyless door locks such as keypad door locks can significantly enhance your home or business’s security, as long as you have the proper security practices in place.

For example, if you’re a homeowner who often leaves the spare key under a flowerpot where it can be vulnerable to intruders, having a keyless system is a safer solution. In a hospitality setting — like a hotel or bed and breakfast — where you need to give access to guests, cleaners and maintenance staff, keyless locks can provide a secure and efficient solution.

Pros of Keyless Door Locks

Keyless door locks offer property owners many benefits, which make them an attractive choice:

1. Enhanced Security and Monitoring

If you want the ability to keep track of who enters and exits your property, a keyless monitored security system can help you achieve this. For example, if you have a PIN code system, you can assign unique codes to different people. This will allow you to track when each person accesses the property and when they leave. For business owners, this can be a great way to track when employees are arriving, even when you’re not present. For a homeowner, you can receive alerts of when kids return home from school, providing you with peace of mind.

2. No More Keys

The most appealing part of keyless door locks is the elimination of physical keys. This perk can be very helpful in situations where many people need access to a property. There’s no need to make duplicate keys for family, friends, staff or service providers. For example, if you’re away for the weekend and someone needs to access your property during that period, you can simply create a temporary code for them to use to enter your property. Once they’re done, you can then deactivate that code.

3. Helpful for Accessibility Needs

The keyless system can be a great option for users with accessibility challenges. Keys can be challenging to handle and pose a barrier for those with conditions like musculoskeletal disorders that make fine motor skills difficult or painful. A keyless door lock with a passcode or fingerprint scanner is a simpler, more accessible method of entry.

4. Virtual Keys for Business

Commercial properties can benefit greatly from keyless systems. This is an excellent way to manage access remotely. For example, a store manager who isn’t present can remotely unlock the door for a delivery driver. This flexibility can simplify access management while enhancing security.

Cons of Keyless Door Locks

While there may be many benefits to going keyless, there are a few disadvantages you’ll also need to consider:

1. Vulnerable to Hacking

Any technology that relies on passcodes or passwords can be vulnerable to hacking. A tech-savvy individual may correctly guess or hack the code if it is simple and gain access to your property. Or, someone who has simply observed you enter the code before may be able to use it later.

2. Forgetting the Code

Remember, passcodes can be challenging for some people. For example, a family with many young children might have some members forgetting their unique codes.

3. Aesthetic Concerns

A keyless system is designed with security first in mind. This sometimes means that some systems aren’t aesthetically pleasing, and if you prefer a specific look for your door, this might be a challenge.

Best Practices for Securing Keyless Door Locks

We know the incredible benefits that keyless door locks offer businesses and homeowners. To maximize their effectiveness and ensure a more secure property, follow these best practices:

• Use strong and unique codes: A simple or predictable code can compromise your security. Use long, complicated and unpredictable codes.
• Give each user a unique code: Assign different codes to family members, employees or service providers to help you monitor who enters and exits.
• Change your codes regularly: Periodically change your codes, especially when giving temporary access to contractors or guests.
• Secure your lock with biometric features: Biometric features like fingerprints or facial recognition can help you add another layer of security to your property.
• Use two-factor authentication (2FA): If available, use 2FA to help reduce the chances of unauthorized access.
• Secure your Wi-Fi network: Use strong passwords and update your router’s firmware when new updates are available to protect all connected devices.
• Monitor activity logs for suspicious behavior: Regularly monitor your logs to identify potential security threats early.

Contact Prestige Security Solutions for Your Security Needs

Whether you’re constantly losing keys or want to regulate access to your property without risking security, keyless locks can be a reliable route to take. However, making this shift can be overwhelming, especially when there are so many options to choose from in the market. The good news is that you don’t have to figure it all out by yourself.

The experts at Prestige Security Solutions can help design and install a custom access control system that accommodates your budget and needs. You can protect your business or home from unauthorized access with an advanced, intuitive and customized keyless solution. Contact our team today to discuss how we can help you meet your security needs.