Smart locks are an increasingly popular form of smart home technology, and the yale smart lock is one of the leading brands in the movement. They have multiple different locks for purchasing, but all remain with the same goal: go keyless. Going keyless can be freeing for some, or scary for others but one thing remains the same: smart locks aren’t going anywhere. You’ll no longer have to ask your significant other where you left your keys, all you need to do is lock it by hand.
What is a Smart Lock?
A smart lock is a smart home device that works through WiFi or Bluetooth. This device lets users leave keys behind, all while still having the ability to lock and unlock their door. The process for locking and unlocking doors is different based on which product is chosen, but most unlock with the tap of a finger, a keycode, or a voice command. There is also remote access. Remote access with smart locks gives users the ability to lock and unlock doors from a place other than their home. This means you can allow guests in while you’re out, have a delivery driver put the package inside the doorway of your home when you’re at work, or allow a pet sitter to come and go while you’re on vacation.
There are customization features that smart locks have, giving them the edge over traditional locks. For example, Yale allows users to change their lock code whenever they want and without any limits. This is a free cost, instead of charging someone to come replace your locks. Therefore, if someone who you don’t trust has your key, you’d have to pay money for that replacement. However, a smart lock allows you to change the code with ease and for free.
Common Concerns: Can Someone Hack the WiFi to Break in?
This can be a common concern for smart locks. However, it’s important to remember that it’s more intricate to hack a wifi service than to pick a lock, or break down a door. There are, however, best practices to make sure that your smart locks stay as private as possible.
- Don’t make your passcode something obvious. Don’t use ascending or descending numbers (i.e. 1, 2, 3, 4 or 4, 3, 2, 1) as your passcode. Also, don’t use your address numbers. So, if you live at 7405 Main Street, don’t make your passcode “7405.” Use something that isn’t going to be obvious to anyone.
- The longer the password, the better. The chances of someone guessing a four digit code is greater than someone guessing six digits.
- If there’s an update to your smart home software, update it! The newer the update, the harder it is for criminals to outsmart it. Manufacturers stay ahead of the criminal curve, so follow their lead and update as soon as possible.
- Keep your WiFi as secure as possible.
- Install a home security camera or a doorbell camera near your lock as extra security and protection. A criminal is going to be less likely to try to enter a home that is very obviously secured. Having motion detector lights, or keeping your porch lights on a schedule is also a good idea.
Yale Smart Lock Products
Yale Assure Lock
This lock comes with a few different fixtures, but the lock itself remains the same. This comes as either a touch screen or keypad option. This is a slim, electronic deadbolt. The touchscreen or the keypad allows users to go completely keyless, for good. The entry codes need to be between four to eight different entry codes. There are options to lock the door with a tap, or by enabling an automatic lock everytime the door closes.
This lock is powered through batteries and equipped with a backup charger in case it dies. The hardware fits with knobs, levers or handlesets, pairing nicely with either contemporary or traditional looks. The installation is easy, and can be done on doors that are between 1 ¾ inch to 2 ¼ inches, and installed using a screwdriver. You can also hire professionals to install it for $99.
Nest x Yale Lock
The company Nest teamed up with Yale to create a lock that is compatible with Nest smart hubs. The Nest x Yale Lock. This lock is both secure and tamper-proof. This smart lock is keyless, allowing you to lock or unlock your door from anywhere in the world as long as you have access to the Nest app.
With this lock, you can receive notifications whenever someone enters or exits your home. This is perfect if you frequently have to give out a passcode for a pet sitter, cleaning service or deliveries. You can create up to 20 passcodes for family, friends or services with the ability to delete whenever you’d like.
This lock connects to Wi-Fi. It can be professionally installed for $99.
Integrate Smart Locks and Smart Security Today
Taking your home from a standard home to a smart home has never been easier thanks to ONIT. Our knowledgeable staff is standing by to answer any questions you could have. Visit us online or call today at 1-833-433-0331.