Keyless Locks
The convenient alternative
Whilekey locks are the most common type of security found in the average residential home, innovations in security technology have opened up the consumer market to a variety of keyless lock solutions. Keyless locks are a convenient alternative to key locks. There’s no equipment to carry with you and it’s impossible to lock yourself out! They’re also more difficult for a thief to pick.
There are three popular types of keyless locks:
Each type has its own pros and cons. However, overall you’ll probably find yourself more secure with a keyless device.
Combination Locks
Combination locks are more commonly used in portable locks. There are a number of different styles of combination models, but each one works on the same general principle.
Combinations are more difficult to pick than your typical key lock, such as a pin tumbler. However, this isn’t to say that it can’t be done.
With portable versions, the easiest way to get around a combination is to simply snap the lock. Some early combination locks were quite easy to break right at the latch. Even worse, with early technology it was possible to reveal the combination by simply pulling the lock tight.
Contemporary technology has addressed these problems, but it’s still possible to figure out a combination. For example, some locks will click when you get the right number.
Pushbutton Locks
Pushbutton devices are similar to combination locks in that they work with a code. Instead of dialing in the code you enter it with buttons. Sometimes the buttons will be pushed in sequence and sometimes they’ll be depressed simultaneously.
Pushbutton locks are extremely secure because they usually work in conjunction with a deadbolt. They’re not easy to break! However, a seasoned lock picker might be able to figure out the combination by gauging the pressure felt when pressing the buttons.
Fingerprint Locks
Fingerprint locks are the latest in home-security technology. They’ve been in use in official circles for quite some time, but the technology was too expensive and difficult to install for the average person looking for a little bit of protection against the unexpected.
Fingerprint devices can work with a variety of different locks, including deadbolts. This means that you can increase their durability by selecting a strong locking mechanism.
These are probably the most difficult types of locks to pick. Sometimes it’s possible to fool the scanner with a picture of a fingerprint. Other locks that work by scanning the depth of the ridges and valleys of a fingerprint can be overridden with an impression (perhaps in wax or another type of pliable substance) of a fingerprint.
The problem with fingerprint locks is that if someone does manage to duplicate your fingerprint, you’ll have to change the lock completely.
Lose Your Key
Although there are drawbacks to each type of keyless lock, you’ll find that they’re more secure and easy to use then your average key devices.
