Remote-access Guide

smart lock with remote access

by Cara Denesik Published 2 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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5 Best WiFi Deadbolt Smart Locks That Offer Remote Access.

  • 1. RemoteLock 5i-B WiFi Deadbolt. View on Amazon.
  • 2. Danalock V2.
  • 3. Schlage Sense Deadbolt + Schlage Sense WiFi Adapter.
  • 4. Lockitron Bolt + Bridge.
  • 5. August Smart Lock + August Connect.

Full Answer

How do smart locks work on front doors?

Smart locks don't necessarily bring new deadbolt mechanisms to your front door, but they can dramatically change how you use them. They can pair with a mobile app on your phone to allow keyless entry and remote access to lock, unlock and monitor your front door through the app or even just a voice command.

How to control smart locks with a smartphone?

Just open the Ring app to access, monitor, and control your smart locks from the convenience of your smartphone. For smart home enthusiasts, smart locks seem to be the best thing since sliced bread.

Should you add a smart lock to your smart home?

No matter which smart lock you choose, adding one to your smart home offers a lot of advantages. With these tips and the best smart lock on your door, managing access for family members, roommates, service providers and guests is a breeze.

Which Smart locks have built-in WiFi?

CR’s take: More and more smart locks are coming to market that connect directly to WiFi without the need for adapters and hubs, making setup easier and less complicated for consumers. One of the best models with built-in WiFi in our ratings is the Eufy Smart Lock Touch & WiFi.

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Are smart locks easily hacked?

Although smart locks are generally more secure than standard locks, they're still vulnerable to hacking. This doesn't mean that you need to get rid of them or trade them in for standard locks—it just means that you should implement greater security measures.

What is the difference between a smart lock and an electronic lock?

While the locking mechanism of a smart electronic lock works much like that of a traditional electronic lock, the upgraded technology does add some additional functionality over older electronic locks. For example, many smart locks can be opened from anywhere in the world via an app on your smartphone.

Do all smart locks require Wi-Fi?

Smart locks do not require Wi-Fi to work. There are several wireless methods available to connect to a smart lock including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Z-Wave, and Zigbee.

Do smart locks have a monthly fee?

Nope, a subscription is not required. The Smart Lock does need to be added to an existing SimpliSafe system, but you can use the whole system and access it through the app (including locking and unlocking the Smart Lock) without a subscription.

Is Kwikset smartkey safe?

Kwikset smartkey locks are certified Grade 1 security for residential use by the Builders Hardware Manufacturers Association and are advertised by Kwikset as being invulnerable to being hacked with wires, screwdrivers, or anything else inserted in the keyway.

What happens if smart lock battery dies?

Your eufy Smart Lock will give you low-battery warnings for multiple weeks before it loses power. However, if your Smart Lock dies entirely before you can replace your batteries, your key will still work. You can use the key to lock and unlock the door.

What is the difference between a Bluetooth and Wi-Fi smart lock?

Bluetooth smart locks provide additional security in that they only allow access when the “key” is present on your person, when you are present; however some Bluetooth smart locks also allow for you to send other people digital keys with your phone from a distance, for maximum entrance convenience.

Are Bluetooth smart locks safe?

While smart locks offer ease of access and they can be locked from anywhere, if you forget to lock up, they are very similar to traditional locks when it comes to security. Since most smart locks work with a traditional deadbolt, they are just as secure as traditional locks.

Can Kwikset Halo be used without Wi-Fi?

With the permission of the landlord, it is possible to install kwikset halo lock offline even in a rented apartment. Anyone who does this must keep the components of the mechanical lock and, if requested by the landlord, reinstall the conventional door lock when moving out.

Do you need a door handle with a smart lock?

Shopping for a smart lock is hard enough without having to worry about what door handle you'll pair it with. Most aren't paired with one from the start and it doesn't make sense to buy a complete handleset, only to toss the deadbolt that you don't need.

Do smart locks have cameras?

The smart locks you will see on the market today don't only have a dedicated app, but also Bluetooth and Wi-Fi compatibility. Some of the modern smart locks also come with an integrated camera so you can see who is at your front door and decide if you want to remotely let them in!

What is the best digital door lock?

The best smart locks you can buy todayYale Real Living Assure SL. ... Kwikset Halo. ... Level Bolt. ... Lockly Secure Plus. ... Nest X Yale. Best smart lock for Nest users. ... Kwikset Premis. A solid smart lock for HomeKit users. ... Kwikset Obsidian. Minimalist keyless smart lock. ... Level Lock Touch. A tap of your finger opens this lock.More items...•

Are smart locks better than regular locks?

While smart locks offer ease of access and they can be locked from anywhere, if you forget to lock up, they are very similar to traditional locks when it comes to security. Since most smart locks work with a traditional deadbolt, they are just as secure as traditional locks.

What are the disadvantages of using electronic locks?

Electronic door locks have few drawbacks and, here are some of them listed below:High-Cost. Generally electronic door lock costs are higher than the traditional door locks. ... High Installation Effort. ... Jamming and Hacking. ... Power Failure. ... Same Access Code. ... Forgetting Your Password. ... Non-Recognition.

Should I get an electronic deadbolt?

Or are they more secure than traditional locks? The answer is that they can be. If a keyless lock means you're more likely to lock your doors every time you leave, less likely to hide a key underneath a doormat, or make tons of extra keys to share that you eventually lose track of, then yes, they can be more secure.

How does an electronic door lock work?

Electronic locks are locked or unlocked with the assistance of an electrical current. The electrical current is either used to power an electromagnet, a solenoid (electromagnet with a single coil), or a motor. These devices will actuate the lock in a manner that is either fail-safe or fail-secure.

Secure Every Door

Secure one door or hundreds, and manage access from anywhere. RemoteLock supports both hardwired and smart-lock solutions, from main entries to parking garages to residential doors.

Every lock. Every credential

Choose from a wide selection of Wi-Fi and Z-Wave smart locks, as well as wired access control systems. Use the credentials you prefer, including PINs, prox cards, mobile access and more.

Manage any type of access

Gain complete visibility of who has access to your property — when and where. Send and revoke self-expiring access codes for improved security and greater efficiency.

Track it all from one platform

Our centralized platform is easy-to-use and available whenever and wherever you need it, so you can take control of your property from your smartphone or laptop.

What is a sesame smart lock?

Sesame smart locks are all about no-fuss installation. It fits over your existing deadbolt, making it the perfect solution for renters and the DIY crowd. These locks also offer smart home integration.

What is biometrics in smart locks?

Biometrics, in this case, is the technical term for fingerprint scanning. Smart locks with fingerprint scanning quite literally put your home security at your fingertips. To gain access to your home, simply place your finger on the keypad, and voila! This is more than just a neat party trick.

How many codes can a Kwikset lock accommodate?

And, they can accommodate up to 30 personalized codes. The Kwikset locks will also send you real-time alerts when someone accesses your home.

What is Friday lock?

It’s the smart lock for the modern home . Friday offers small form factor locks with just enough features. Users can issue unlimited digital keys and choose from a lineup of interchangeable covers.

How much does Yale lock cost?

Yale has an enormous variety of locks, which includes smart locks, deadbolts, digital door viewers and more. Their keyless entry locks range from $99 to $299 each . They also have a new Assure Level lock coming out this spring in either a keypad option or capacitive touchscreen option.

How to keep a door lock from falling?

Extend the deadbolt fully. Apply tape to the outside of the door lock to keep it from falling when screws are loosened. Unscrew everything. Take out the internal deadbolt mechanism with the strike plate.

What is August lock?

August is the smart and affordable way to take control of your entryway.

What is Schlage Connect?

Schlage Connect™ seamlessly pairs with a wide range of home automation and alarm systems including most Z-Wave and Zigbee Certified systems. Enjoy keyless access, remote monitoring, control of your lock from anywhere, plus available and customizable alarm functionality. It’s all here for you as you outfit your smart home. Enter using the convenient touchscreen or use your smartphone for control while away from home.

Does Schlage have smart locks?

Schlage has a wide selection of smart locks that fit with any smart home, depending upon your specific system and home automation needs.

What is smart lock?

A smart lock is arguably the most important part of a truly smart, connected home. Not only will it allow you to come and go as you please, it will also monitor who is entering and leaving your home while you're away. Some models simply let you use your phone to open and close doors.

What is a connected lock?

Keys are so 20th century. A connected lock offers both security and flexibility, letting you control access to your home with your phone. And installation is easier than you think. Here's what you need to know and the best smart locks we've tested.

What is an igloo lock?

The Igloohome Smart Padlock and the Tapplock one+ are Bluetooth-connected padlocks, for instance. They're built to be as tough as any standard lock, but use Bluetooth to unlock with the tap of a button when you're nearby. They also let you grant temporary or permanent guest access on your terms simply by using an app.

How far away can you connect a Bluetooth lock?

Web Store Rating. If the lock is Bluetooth enabled, you'll have to be within range (around 40 feet) to communicate with it, while locks with built-in Wi-Fi circuitry or a Wi-Fi bridge can be controlled from almost anywhere as long as they are connected to your home router.

When you leave the perimeter, can you have the lock automatically engage?

Similarly, an auto-lock feature will have the lock automatically engage after it has been unlocked for a specific period of time.

Can you lock your house with geofencing?

With geofencing, you'll never have to worry if you locked up before you left the house; just use the mobile app to set up a perimeter around your house, and use your phone's location services to pinpoint your exact location. When you leave the perimeter, you can have the lock automatically engage behind you.

Can you pair a doorbell with a lock?

Depending on your home automation setup , you can even pair your lock with a video doorbell, so you can see who is at the door before you unlock it, or have an indoor security camera begin recording when a door is unlocked. Just remember: The more features you get, the more you can typically expect to spend.

When will smart locks be available in 2021?

July 18, 2021 6:30 p.m. PT. 32. While smart locks may seem like something straight out of a science fiction movie, they're real and they're surprisingly convenient. They can pair with a mobile app on your smartphone to allow remote access and keyless entry to lock, unlock and monitor your front door with the app or even just a voice command.

How much does Schlage Encode cost?

The $235 Schlage Encode doesn't do it all. You won't get HomeKit compatibility and you're limited to 100 user codes. Still, I'm a big fan because you won't need Z-wave devices or a Zigbee hub or Wi-Fi module to connect this door lock to your smart home.

Is Kwikset a good lock?

Kwikset Kevo Bluetooth Deadbolt: Kwikset's $222 second-gen Kevo is a good Bluetooth smart lock and a simple answer to smartening your door if you don't need remote control access . If you do, you'll need to purchase the Kevo Plus connect module. You can use the mobile app or the key fob for keyless door entry.

Is smart lock right for my home?

Now, the only question is which smart lock is right for you. Picking the best smart lock for your home depends on a few things. For some, scheduling and user code limits will be important. For others, having a door lock that can be retrofitted for a traditional lock instead of replacing the existing deadbolt on a door is a must-have. ...

Does Yale SL have a touchscreen?

Yale's SL Touchscreen Deadbolt has a small, sleek design with a touchscreen keypad that looks good on nearly every door -- and it comes in three finishes. The newest smart deadbolt bundle includes August smarts with a Connected by August Kit (Wi-Fi module and DoorSense sensors) to connect with the August app to unlock your door or for locking it. This keyless lock with backlit keypad works with Amazon Alexa voice control, Google Assistant and HomeKit.

Is August smart lock compatible with Apple Homekit?

You won't get Apple HomeKit compatibility or Z-Wave smarts to connect to a smart hub. Still, this August Smart Lock is a moderately priced, capable smart door lock for keyless entry. It's the best smart lock if you live in an apartment and don't want to remove your existing lock.

Is smart lock a security device?

Smart lock technology adds convenience, but it's important to remember that this option is first and foremost a security device. It's important to take security features seriously. Use a PIN code for any voice control unlock and make sure you only give access codes to unlock the door to people you trust. Enabling the auto relock feature is also a good idea, so the door will auto lock behind you if you forget.

What is smart lock?

Smart locks, especially keypad models, are perfectly suited for rental-property and vacation-home owners, such as Airbnb host s, who tend to have to deal with frequent key exchanges (in fact, with some locks, Airbnb now offers to automate code creation for guests).

What is a Wyze lock?

Like the popular August line of smart locks, the Wyze Lock is a conversion kit that adds smarts to traditional mechanical deadbolts.

Can Wyze lock be used with Alexa?

Currently the Wyze Lock works with its companion app but can also pair with Amazon Alexa, which lets you use voice commands to lock the door; you can also use Alexa to unlock the door if you program a PIN code. Google Assistant support is in the works, but HomeKit isn’t an option.

Does Wyze lock require an app?

Unlike our other picks, which have a keypad or fingerprint sensor (or both), the Wyze Lock requires that you use an app to unlock it, which for everyday use isn’t much more convenient than using a key (Wyze has introduced a wireless keypad, which we plan to test).

Does Wyze lock have a built in sensor?

For anyone who wants to keep an existing keyway, the Wyze lock is fast and quiet. It also has a built-in sensor to detect when your door is ajar and includes a tiny plug-in Wi-Fi adapter.

Is the Schlage Encode Wi-Fi?

The Encode is smaller than its Schlage forebears (though not as small as the U-Bolt Pro), and it installs quickly. Unlike most smart locks, it has Wi-Fi built-in, so it connects directly to your home network (whereas most locks use Bluetooth to connect to a plug-in adapter that then connects to your Wi-Fi network).

Is the Yale lock the same as the Nest lock?

The Nest x Yale Lock is largely identical to the Yale Assure Lock SL, except that it is compatible only with other Nest smart devices and has a slightly larger keypad—which we actually prefer. If you have a smart-home system that is entirely Nest-based, especially a Nest Hello doorbell, it’s a great option.

Best WiFi-Capable Smart Locks

CR’s take: More and more smart locks are coming to market that connect directly to WiFi without the need for adapters and hubs, making setup easier and less complicated for consumers. One of the best models with built-in WiFi in our ratings is the Eufy Smart Lock Touch & WiFi.

Best Bluetooth-Only Smart Locks

CR’s take: Out of the box, the Eufy Smart Lock Touch can’t connect to the internet for remote control. For that, you’ll need the Eufy WiFi Bridge, $46, sold separately at Amazon and Walmart. But even without the bridge, this lock still packs plenty of features and performs very well in our tests.

Best Retrofit Smart Locks

CR’s take: The retrofit August Smart Lock Pro offers a ton of smart features, including auto-locking and unlocking, voice control (via Amazon Alexa, Apple HomeKit/Siri, and Google Assistant), access logs, electronic keys, a door sensor (to tell if the door is closed, not just locked), and compatibility with Z-Wave Plus smart home hubs.

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