Locks are a normal part of our everyday life. We lock everything from our briefcases to our front doors. Every sort of lock has a specific function, and there are many different types. These range from conventional locks with a key to smart keyless locking systems. How do you know what kind of lock will work best for you?
Locks have evolved from basic bars across doors to the pin and tumbler system that Linus Yale introduced to us in the 1800s. And now, humankind has taken great leaps forward, to a point where we have locks that can grant entry with facial or fingerprint recognition.
Traditional Locks
In years gone by, a lock and key were synonymous. Traditional locks need a key. They are fairly simple to operate and quite reliable for security. They are not reliant on batteries, or electricity, or any other type of technology like connecting to the internet. This makes them perfect if you need a locking system that doesn’t rely on the power grid.
Traditional locks are basically a “what you see is what you get” system. They are straightforward, allowing access only if you have the right key. They are not susceptible to software malfunctions or glitches and have no reliance on anything except for their basic mechanical structure.
Smart Locks
In our modern era, technology has changed everything, including how we lock our homes and businesses. A keyless entry door lock is quite the norm, allowing you to gain access with a mobile device, a remote control, a numerical code, or even biometrics.
Bluetooth and Wi-Fi are two ways that smart locks use to connect and open doors. This allows us the freedom to manage access remotely or even from a distance. You could be overseas on vacation, but you need to let someone in so they can water the plants. Businesses can offer temporary access to guests using keycards or access codes.
Mobile phones, tablets, and other gadgets can be used to operate smart systems, which can be highly practical because they remove any need for you to be physically present on the property to unlock the doors.
Weaknesses of Traditional vs. Smart Locks
We have looked at the strengths of each system, but it is also important to understand each system’s weaknesses.
Traditional Locks
We have relied on traditional locks for years, decades, even. So, we already know what their greatest weaknesses are.
Lost keys: This has to be the biggest weakness, because everyone loses keys at some point. Many sofas have been sold with keys that have fallen into their dark recesses.
Lock picking: Some traditional locks can be picked. While manufacturers have worked hard to lessen this risk, experienced individuals can still do it with the right tools.
Brute force: With enough force, a door can be kicked in, or a traditional lock can be broken using heavy tools. Deadbolts paired with steel exterior doors are the best defense.
Drilling: You can drill through the barrel of a lock, which destroys it, making entry possible.
Smart Locks
Smart locks are wholly reliant on two major factors: power and connectivity.
Power loss: If there is a power outage and you have no mechanical backup, you could be locked in or out of the building.
Connectivity: If the networks are down and you lose connection to Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, the system could be rendered useless. You may not be able to use remote functionality.
Battery dying: If your battery-operated system runs out of power, you might not be able to enter or exit the building.
Cybersecurity: Anything connected to a network can possibly be hacked. Thieves could interrupt signals, jam signals, or uncover your access codes.
Choosing the Right Lock for You
Everything we own goes behind the doors. In an effort to protect our families and possessions from robbers and other criminals, we have locked doors and gates on our homes. So when you choose the locks that will keep you safe, you would choose them mainly based on security. The question arises, however, as to which locking mechanism you should choose and which is actually safer.
Smart locks are highly convenient. They offer great benefits, giving you a lot of control over the access you grant to your home or office. Traditional locks need a physical presence to unlock the doors. Smart locks don’t. The reality is that there are pros and cons to both traditional and smart locks.
No matter how hard you try, the greater reality is that there are always going to be vulnerabilities to any system you choose to use. It really all comes down to what you need the lock to protect and how much security you actually need.
Final Thoughts
When you choose your locks, perhaps think of using a combination of traditional, mechanical locks and modern smart locks. Having a hybrid approach may give you the best of both worlds: You get the robust and reliable physical security of a manual locking system as well as the convenience and monitoring that comes with advanced smart technology.
Whichever option you decide on, just make sure your locks are installed correctly and are of the best quality. They need to offer enough security for your requirements, and probably will, when combined with other security measures like an alarm system and security cameras.
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