Traditional Locks vs. Smart Locks

Smart locks are one of the biggest breakthroughs in the locksmith industry. It has introduced new methods and discourses of how we imagine security and safety in various settings.

However, have you ever wondered which locks are safer? While both locks serve the purpose of providing security to your properties, they do have their own differences.

If you want to learn more about the differences between traditional locks and smart locks, then please keep on reading below as we explore this topic further.

What Are Traditional Locks?

Traditional locks are perhaps the more familiar lock system to you. In fact, the term “traditional” locks may not even be familiar to many people. However, generally, these locks are classified as those that are not automated.  

Traditional locks come in various types. They can vary between deadbolt locks, knob locks, mortise locks, and other types of locks. These locks are characterised by mechanisms that are engaged with the turn of a key, the push of a button, or a twist of a thumb turn.

Most locking mechanisms of traditional locks are activated with a key. Pin tumbler locks and mortise locks are common examples of this and understood by all locksmiths.

Pin-tumbler locks are commonly used on residential properties. They have a series of spring-loaded pins that are loaded into cylinders. 

The cylinders are made of a set of pins that have designated key pins and driver pins. Once the correct key is inserted into the lock, the locking mechanism is elevated and the driver pins are pushed upwards. This can ultimately unlock the lock.

So, generally, traditional locks have a variation of the “pin and tumbler” method. This is to say that most traditional locks have a lock cylinder that is held in place with a series of small metal pins that have a lower and upper half. 

Once the right key is inserted and turned, it can trigger the pins to move a certain distance and create a separation between the upper and lower halves of the pins. Thus, the lock unlocks.

Traditional Locks vs. Smart Locks

What Are Smart Locks?

Unlike traditional locks, smart locks do not make use of a pin and tumbler method. Rather, they are automated versions of traditional locks.

Smart locks often utilise traditional lock mechanisms but they are engaged either remotely or electronically. They can also be controlled and operated by smartphones and other smart devices, unlike traditional locks.

Similar to traditional locks, smart locks require a lock and key to work properly. It receives instructions from a device and a cryptographic key so that it can lock and unlock. 

Additionally, smart locks can monitor the lock’s status and send alerts to connected devices. These locks are especially essential for smart homes, which are also on the rise in the market nowadays.

Smart locks do not always have physical keys as traditional locks do. Rather, they rely on automated protocols that issue special key fobs or sets of instructions. Some smart locks can even hand temporary keys to third parties, functioning somewhat as “spare keys.”

Smart lock manufacturers often attempt to make smart locks more efficient by adding various features that help elevate convenience. However, occasionally this may come at the expense of security itself. 

Traditional Locks vs. Smart Locks

While traditional locks are only prone to tampering, smart locks can be susceptible to both tampering and cyber attacks and compromise your security system. This raises the question many people have about whether smart locks are secure enough. 

Nonetheless, these cyberattacks can be prevented by taking the appropriate measures. This might mean investing in special equipment and consulting with an experienced locksmith to help establish a reliable firewall against potential burglars to keep your property safe and secure. 

While many people might question the security capabilities of smart locks, nowadays there are many ways by which homeowners can modify smart locks to help make them more secure.

In fact, many smart locks are used in conjunction with traditional locks. As such, while both locks are different from each other, they still coexist together to help strengthen security and safety.

Final Thoughts

Smart locks and traditional locks have various differences from each other. The primary difference is that smart locks are automated while traditional locks are not. 

Interestingly, smart locks can have similar locking mechanisms to traditional locks. Each lock does have its own disadvantages, but they both help provide security. Occasionally, they may even be used together. 

If you are looking for the best locksmiths in Melbourne for your lock choices, Casey Locksmiths is the preferred choice for all your locking needs.

Please call us today on 0416 161 332 or contact us through our enquiry form.

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