Your commercial front doors are the first line of defence for your business and any commercial property. Beyond being a point of entry, they play a crucial role in establishing a secure and inviting environment for both customers and employees. In this blog post, we'll delve into the specific reasons why it's paramount to keep your commercial premises' front doors in impeccable condition.
Smart locks let you unlock your doors without a traditional key. When someone comes to water your plants, borrow a book, or deliver a package, you can open the door from anywhere in the world. Returning home with shopping becomes hassle-free. No more searching for keys!
Smart locks are a very versatile solution that may be adjusted to your needs. They let you open your door not only with mobile apps but also with key cars, keypads, voice, touch or even geofencing. And you can still use traditional keys. But how to choose the perfect smart lock for your needs?
Diversity
Popular smart locks let you enter your property with an app on your phone, for which you need an Internet connection. A keypad smart lock requires you to enter a code on the numeric keypad which may come with physical buttons or a touchscreen. This kind of smart lock often comes with a deadbolt with a handle or a deadbolt with a lever and knob.
You can also go for a smart lock with a key card which lets you into the property as soon as you touch the lock with your card – it is a popular commercial security solution frequently used in populated spaces such as hotels or hospitals.
For an even more modern approach, your locksmith may recommend a biometric smart lock that works with your fingerprint. You can also allow other family members, friends, or employees to open the door with their fingerprints.
Compatibility
When you are about to choose a perfect smart lock for your home or business, the first thing to consider is whether it is compatible with your existing security measures and, most importantly, your door. If the doors are new, most likely getting a smart lock will not be a problem. Older doors may pose challenges as you try to replace the deadbolt mechanism. Some smart locks can be retrofitted if you want to keep your old deadbolt and your physical keys. The other way to go is to replace the entire mechanism. A professional locksmith is going to help you make the right choice.
Connectivity
There is a range of communication protocols that smart locks operate with, such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or Z-Wave. Wi-fi smart lock is usually more than enough to have your business security system integrated. Z-Wave may not be as cost-effective, but it uses little power and does not interfere with other devices. Again, it’s worth contacting a local locksmith who will assess your network requirements, install perfect smart security for your home and business and keep an eye on it whenever it needs a fix or an upgrade.
Integration
Most importantly, your smart lock should be chosen according to the technical properties of your door and premises. A professional locksmith is going to advise you on the best smart lock type for your individual security needs. Get in touch with trusted locksmith services, and – choosing the perfect smart security option – always remember to pay attention to:
- your door type and the possibility of a retrofit,
- connectivity issues,
- operating temperature (the range should ensure that the smart lock will work even in hard weather conditions),
- the availability of the application on your smartphone, considering additional functions such as Auto-Lock, Auto-Unlock, the ability to generate one-time codes, push notifications to the phone, or activity monitoring.
Choosing a smart lock can be a great way to add convenience and security to your home. To sum up, here's a handy list of factors to consider when choosing a smart lock:
- Compatibility: Make sure the smart lock is compatible with your existing door and locking mechanism. Some smart locks may require special adapters or installation procedures that may not be compatible with certain doors.
- Connectivity: Smart locks can be connected to your home's Wi-Fi network or use Bluetooth technology to communicate with your smartphone. Consider which type of connectivity best suits your needs.
- Security features: Look for smart locks with strong encryption protocols, such as AES-256, and two-factor authentication to enhance security.
- Power source: Some smart locks are battery-operated, while others require a hardwired power source. Consider which type of power source is most convenient for you.
- Integration with other smart home devices: If you have other smart home devices, such as a voice assistant or a security system, consider choosing a smart lock that can integrate with those devices.
- Price: Smart locks can vary in price depending on their features. Consider your budget and the features that are most important to you when making your decision.
- Brand reputation: Look for reputable brands that have good customer reviews and reliable customer service.
By considering these factors, you can choose a smart lock that is compatible, secure, convenient and fits within your budget. Keeping these in mind and contacting a local security professional, you can be sure that your new smart lock will serve you for years.
