A Smart Front Door Lock Can Make Your Home More Secure and Convenient

A smart front door lock eliminates the need to fish around in your pockets while standing on the porch with a hands-full of groceries. It also lets you easily grant virtual keys to friends, family and service professionals.

The best smart locks let you unlock using an app, keypad, voice command, and fingerprint. Some work with your existing deadbolt while others replace it.

Easy to install

A smart lock can help make your home more secure and convenient. They offer a variety of keyless entry options, including proximity unlocking with your smartphone, guest codes for visitors, and the ability to check and remotely lock your door from anywhere. They can also lower your homeowner’s insurance and serve as a selling point for potential buyers.

Installing a smart lock can be done by most DIYers, though it does require some tools and knowledge of how to replace an existing deadbolt. Some smart locks, such as the August Smart Lock and the Wyze Lock, replace the interior thumb turn and exterior keyhole, while others are designed to work with existing deadbolts and only add an adapter on the inside.

It’s important to choose a smart lock that’s compatible with your other devices and smart home ecosystem. The best ones work with both Alexa and Google Assistant, and can integrate with smart lights and security systems. They can smart front door lock also be connected to a hub device like the Yale Assure Lock 2 for monitoring and control over an entire home.

Keyless entry

The best smart locks are compatible with popular voice assistants and integrate with home automation systems. They also have features that make it easier to grant access to guests and maintenance staff. Some models even have solar-powered battery backup. For example, the Nuki Smart Lock 3.0 Pro connects to Alexa and Google Assistant and can be used with the Yale Sync Alarm to automatically disarm when you unlock the door.

Most smart locks can be controlled remotely using a smartphone app, although some require an internet connection or home hub to function fully. They can also be programmed to automatically lock when you leave the house, or to send a notification when someone opens the door.

Depending on the model you choose, some smart locks work with existing deadbolts while others replace the interior of your door. Some smart locks only work with specific types of deadbolts, so double-check compatibility before you buy. In most cases, installation is simple and only requires a screwdriver. However, some of our picks require you to purchase a gateway plug to connect the lock to your Wi-Fi network.

Remote access

Unlike traditional locks, smart models can connect to the internet and offer a variety of other features. These include remote access, integration with a home automation system, and a variety of security options. Some also allow the owner to monitor who has accessed the door and when, and some even work with video doorbells to give more detailed information about visitors.

Some smart locks require a separate hub or bridge for connectivity, while others are fully integrated into an existing home network. We also look at how well a smart lock integrates with other home devices, such as cameras and lights.

The Kwikset Kevo is an easy choice for those who want to add a smart lock but don’t need remote access or a wireless key fob. It works over your existing deadbolt and uses Bluetooth to communicate with your phone. We’ve found that it can be a little slow to respond, though.

Home automation

When used with a home automation system, smart front door locks can be integrated into a wide range of routine actions. They can turn on lights and music when the homeowner gets home at night, trigger a camera to record activity around the house, and even set the thermostat based on the owner’s schedule.

Smart locks can offer additional security by preventing criminals from copying a key code or using a remote hacking tool to gain entry. They also make it easier for homeowners to track who comes in and out of the house, which is helpful if you have hired help like cleaners or dog walkers.

Often, high-quality smart locks have a smartphone app that lets users clearly see who has entered and exited the home, and when. This feature allows you to feel safe in your own home, and it’s great for parents who are worried about their kids arriving home safely from school. The apps also send notifications to the homeowner if someone has attempted tampering with their lock. This way, the homeowner can contact their home security company or law enforcement immediately.

Security

A smart lock is a secure way to let people into your home. Many models come with a digital key that pairs with your smartphone to grant access without the need to remember or carry a key. smart front door lock Typically, these digital keys can be activated with Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. Some can even be opened if the phone is in your pocket or bag, though this feature varies between models.

Smart locks that connect to the internet can be hacked, but it takes concerted effort and knowledge of specific smart lock vulnerabilities. Regardless, most modern locks feature strong encryption to protect the connection between your lock and your smartphone. Some also offer two-factor authentication to further secure your lock and prevent unauthorized logins.

Another security feature offered by some smart locks is door activity monitoring. These can send notifications to your smartphone or a touch-screen base station, like Vivint’s Smart Hub, whenever there is front-door activity. This can help you know when the kids return from school or the dog sitter arrives, or if guests have checked in.