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Home Security Device
Updated September 22, 2025
Smart door lock
A smart door lock is a keyless electronic lock for your home. It lets you lock and unlock your door remotely using your phone or a code.
Category
Home Security Device
Use Case
Securing residential or commercial entry points with electronic access control
Key Features
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Keyless Entry With Digital Codes
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Remote Access Via Smartphone App
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Temporary Guest Access Codes
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Activity Logs And Access History
In Simple Terms
What It Is
A smart door lock is a lock for your door that you can control without a physical key. Instead of turning a key in a lock, you can use your phone, a special key fob, a code you type on a keypad, or even your fingerprint. It connects to your home's Wi-Fi or another wireless system, letting you lock or unlock your door from anywhere. Think of it like a regular lock but with more ways to open it and the ability to check if your door is locked even when you’re not home.
Why People Use It
People use smart door locks for convenience and extra security. You never have to worry about forgetting your keys because you can always use your phone or a code to get in. It’s also helpful for letting in family, friends, or delivery people when you’re not there—you can give them a temporary code that only works for a certain time. Plus, many smart locks will send you an alert on your phone if someone unlocks the door, so you always know who’s coming and going.
Everyday Examples
Imagine you’re at work and a family member needs to stop by to pick something up. Instead of leaving a key under the mat, you can send them a one-time code to use on the lock. Or, if your hands are full with groceries, you can just tap your phone against the lock to open the door without digging for keys. Some people use them for vacation homes—they can change the entry code remotely for each new guest without needing to hand out physical keys. Parents also like them for knowing exactly when their kids get home from school, thanks to instant notifications.
Technical Details
Definition
A smart door lock is an electromechanical locking device that replaces or augments a traditional mechanical lock. It grants or denies access to a physical space through electronic means, typically via wireless communication protocols. Its primary function is to provide keyless entry, remote access management, and integration with broader smart home ecosystems.
How It Works
The core operation involves an authentication process where a user presents a valid credential. This credential is transmitted wirelessly from a device like a smartphone or a dedicated key fob to the lock's internal receiver. The lock's onboard microprocessor verifies the credential against an encrypted, stored list of authorized users. Upon successful authentication, the processor sends a signal to a small internal motor (actuator), which physically retracts or extends the deadbolt. This entire process is powered by an internal battery source and can often be monitored and controlled remotely via a companion mobile application and a central hub or Wi-Fi connection.
Key Components
Actuator/Motor: The electromechanical component responsible for physically moving the bolt.
Microprocessor: The central processing unit that authenticates credentials and controls the actuator.
Wireless Radio: Enables communication with user devices and hubs using protocols like Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or Z-Wave.
Cryptographic Engine: Hardware or software that encrypts communication and securely stores access codes.
Power Source: Typically standard or rechargeable batteries.
Backup Physical Keyway or Keypad: A failsafe entry method for power loss or system malfunction.
Microprocessor: The central processing unit that authenticates credentials and controls the actuator.
Wireless Radio: Enables communication with user devices and hubs using protocols like Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or Z-Wave.
Cryptographic Engine: Hardware or software that encrypts communication and securely stores access codes.
Power Source: Typically standard or rechargeable batteries.
Backup Physical Keyway or Keypad: A failsafe entry method for power loss or system malfunction.
Common Use Cases
Keyless Residential Entry: Eliminating the need for physical keys for homeowners and family members.
Remote Access Granting: Providing temporary or recurring virtual keys to guests, service providers, or short-term renters.
Integration with Home Automation: Triggering scenes (e.g., turning on lights) upon lock/unlock events as part of a smart home routine.
Access Logs and Security Alerts: Reviewing a timestamped history of all lock events and receiving notifications for unauthorized access attempts.
* Commercial Property Management: Streamlining access for employees, tenants, or cleaning crews in multi-unit buildings.
Remote Access Granting: Providing temporary or recurring virtual keys to guests, service providers, or short-term renters.
Integration with Home Automation: Triggering scenes (e.g., turning on lights) upon lock/unlock events as part of a smart home routine.
Access Logs and Security Alerts: Reviewing a timestamped history of all lock events and receiving notifications for unauthorized access attempts.
* Commercial Property Management: Streamlining access for employees, tenants, or cleaning crews in multi-unit buildings.
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