What Are The Differences Between Keyless Entry And Traditional Locks?

A few years ago any mention of a keyless lock would have prompted looks of complete bemusement, as if how else could a lock possibly work? And we wouldn’t have described a lock that uses a key as a ‘traditional’ lock, it was simply a lock. But times change and technologies develop, and certainly home and business security has evolved greatly in the last decade to present a range of keyless security options alongside what we now call traditional keyed security.

The importance of security hasn’t changed though, so it is natural that people are cautious about new technologies and how keyless locks could possibly offer the same or better levels of security as a traditional keyed lock. So it is important that we understand the essential details of each type of lock and study the differences, but first let’s make sure we know what we are talking about.

What is a traditional lock?

A traditional lock is a locking mechanism that requires a physical key to open it. This key engages with the locking mechanism to disengage the lock and allow access. Authorisation is issued by the distribution of physical keys, but after that, cannot be completely controlled as people can copy keys, lose keys or have them stolen.

What is a keyless entry lock?

Keyless entry is now possible via a range of different technologies which allow us to disengage a lock without the need for a physical key. These systems vary in terms of sophistication, what additional functionality they offer and how they can be integrated with other services. In some cases there is still a need to have physical interaction with a lock, for example replacing the traditional key with a swipe card or fob, but there are additional practical advantages to the keyless system.

So let’s look at the various keyless entry locking systems:

Keypad – a user inputs a code or PIN to activate the lock
Audio/Video – a user speaks into a microphone or appears on a video screen and is granted entry by someone inside the building monitoring the access control system
Biometrics – the locking mechanism is activated by a user’s unique feature, such as a fingerprint, retina scan or facial recognition
Smart lock – a user can activate the lock using a Bluetooth signal controlled via an app on their smartphone
Swipe card/ID badge/Fob – a user activates the lock by holding a card, badge or fob close to a reader, which receives radio frequency signals which tell it to activate the lock
Barcode – a user has a card with a barcode on it and a reader can scan this to activate the lock

The pros and cons of keyless entry locks

First of all, let’s look at traditional locks and try to understand why they have become outdated. Mechanical locking systems have remained the same for over a hundred years and are extremely reliable, however:

Keys can become lost, stolen or copied
Keys can be slow to activate a lock if we can’t find them in our bag or pockets, or engage them properly in the locking mechanism
We can’t 100% control the distribution of keys
The physical interaction of keys with a mechanical lock can cause wear and tear over time and requires costly maintenance and/or replacement

Keyless entry systems do solve some of these problems, but depending on which of the above-listed solutions you opt for, there are limitations which you have to consider. So possible cons of keyless systems include:

Smart locks can be hacked – but this requires strong technical knowledge, which an opportunist thief is unlikely to have, nor would they have the time to sit down and hack your lock when there are likely other, easier opportunities nearby. You can also add layers of security to your smart lock systems, such as changing WIFI passwords, updating software and installing two-step verification processes.
Some keyless systems depend on power – yes, you have to monitor power to some keyless systems, but we manage this with many other items in our daily lives and this is another, plus you can put back-up systems in place.
Technology can break down – there is always a possibility of this, however unlikely, but with most systems you can override the technology with a physical key or through a simple troubleshooting exercise.

There are so many keyless entry options that you can choose the system which provides the most reliability and confidence. What is the same between traditional locks and keyless locks is the locking system itself, they both use the same type of locks, ie. cylinder, rim or deadbolt locks, it is just how they are activated that is different. So let’s end by looking at the pros of keyless locks, which do vary depending on what system you opt for:

No physical key, so you can’t lose it or have it stolen
Security and authorisation can be centrally managed
Entry is quicker and easier
Systems can notify you when a lock has been activated and accessed
Systems can notify you when a lock has been left un-activated for a period of time, and can auto-lock so you never have to worry about leaving home and forgetting to lock the door
There is no wear and tear on the locking mechanism through physical interaction
You can allow/restrict/change access remotely
You can integrate access with other systems, such as alarms, CCTV and attendance registers for HR and health and safety purposes.

Contact MB Direct for more advice on keyless entry locks

On the whole, keyless entry locks offer far more functionality than traditional locks and can enhance your overall security, and there are plenty of options for you to choose from. So contact MB Direct today for advice on the best system for you from our complete range of access control systems.