Smart locks, which utilize the Internet of Things (IoT) to unlock with a smartphone, have become more common in recent years. Because these locks are so state-of-the-art, you can lock and unlock the door without using a key. Many people, however, wonder whether Wi-Fi is necessary for smart locks.
Similarly, Wi-Fi is not required for smart locks to function, so they may be used in areas with spotty or no service. In addition, you may get smart locks at a reasonable price. You’ll need to invest in a Philips Smart Lock for this purpose for excellent experience. Let’s take a look on details on how do all smart locks need Wi-Fi and Why?
Can Smart Locks Function Without Wi-Fi?
In a word, yes. Smart locks may be either Wi-Fi enabled or non-enabled. Wi-Fi smart locks use an establishment’s or residence’s preexisting Wi-Fi network for remote access and management. Remote access to this sort of smart lock needs a private Wi-Fi network.
Smart locks that don’t use Wi-Fi may function independently of a home network—Bluetooth or another kind of short-range wireless technology powers this sort of smart lock. If you don’t want to use Wi-Fi but still want the benefits of a smart lock, this is the option for you.
Which Smart Lock is Preferable, one that Uses WiFi or Bluetooth?
The Bluetooth smart lock is a common and reliable alternative to Wi-Fi-enabled smart locks. A Bluetooth smart lock is an electronic lock that can interact wirelessly over short distances. Compared to a WiFi smart lock, it has a longer battery life and may be used without an internet connection.
However, its range is limited, and it might be challenging to maintain a relationship in certain situations. If you’re concerned about battery life, go with a Bluetooth smart lock, whereas remote access from anywhere worldwide is best accomplished with a WiFi smart lock.
In addition, a Bluetooth smart lock may be upgraded to a “WiFi smart lock” by connecting it to a WiFi gateway. The Bluetooth smart lock may then be managed and controlled from afar over the internet.
What are the Connectivity Options for Smart Locks?
You may choose from many different connection methods when it comes to smart locks. In the following, we’ll explain the variations.
- Bluetooth:
A smartphone in Bluetooth range of a lock may be used to unlock the door.
- WiFi:
There is no need for a gateway when using a WiFi smart lock because of its direct connection to WiFi.
- Z-Wave:
A smart lock that utilizes a Z-Wave hub to connect to a building’s WiFi.
What about Wi-Fi? Do all smart locks need it?
While Wi-Fi connectivity isn’t required for smart locks to function, it is necessary for the majority of their additional capabilities. Wi-Fi connectivity is increasingly a common feature among smart locks. You may take command of it remotely from any location with an internet connection.
If you’re away from home but within range of the smart lock’s associated app, you may let a guest in via the gate without being physically there. However, you will need an active internet connection to use it remotely.
The smart lock may be unlocked with a fingerprint, passcode, card, or key, regardless of whether or not the device is connected to the internet.
How Secure are Wi-Fi Smart Locks?
Smart locks have yet to win over everyone who doubts their safety. The fact that these locks communicate via Wi-Fi has them quite worried. However, only a few modern smart locks need constant internet access. Bluetooth or Z-Wave connections are often used for locks that don’t need Wi-Fi.
Smart locks that use Wi-Fi are more vulnerable to hacking but have more functions. Connecting your smart lock to Wi-Fi will allow you to take benefit of the following features:
- Connecting to Wi-Fi enables you to access the smart lock remotely. This feature lets you secure and open the door from your office or home.
- Due to the Wi-Fi connection, you can use a smart lock app to keep tabs on who comes and goes from your door. The front entrance may be monitored, and security alerts can be sent anytime.
- Wi-Fi locks may usually be used with other types of smart locks. To purchase a smart lock, you must buy a Philips Smart Lock.
When Wi-Fi Fails, What Happens to Smart Locks?
Even if your smart lock cannot accept remote orders or updates because it lacks a Wi-Fi connection, you may still use the key or keypad to unlock the door. You may still use conventional ways of opening and shutting your door, even without an internet connection.
If you usually use your smartphone to operate the lock, you will be able to once the Wi-Fi is back up and running. Some smart locks contain backup functions that enable them to keep working even if there is no Wi-Fi connection.
Some variants, for instance, may be equipped with a Bluetooth module or physical keys that may bypass the electronic controls. In addition, some smart locks are designed to save certain information locally, allowing them to operate normally even if they lose network.
To sum up, people who rely on remote access to their smart locks may experience some annoyance if they lose their Wi-Fi connection, but this is not necessarily an emergency.
What are the Tips for Choosing the Best WiFi Smart Lock?
There are some tips to consider when you chose Wi-Fi smart lock
- Capacity for Incorporation:
By coordinating with other property technology solutions, the user experience is improved with smart door locks. To further enhance building accessibility, you may consider integrating your smart lock with a video intercom or other access management.
- Distant Entry:
Please ensure the smart lock you wish to buy can be accessed remotely before buying it. It provides a way for remote control of access via smartphone. If you want to buy a smart lock you must purchase Philips Smart Lock.
- Battery life:
Battery life is a crucial consideration when shopping for a WiFi door lock. It would help if you looked around for the most durable smart locks with long battery life. And some of them have rechargeable batteries built right in!
When Using Wi-Fi, Can a Smart Lock be Hacked?
Without adequate protection, a Wi-Fi-enabled smart lock is at risk of attack. The danger of unauthorized access may be reduced by always using the most recent firmware, using strong passwords, and turning on two-factor authentication.
What Happens If the Battery Runs Out in a Wi-Fi-Dependent Smart Lock?
If the battery dies in a smart lock that needs Wi-Fi, the safety will not be able to connect to the internet and cannot be remotely accessed. However, there may still be a way to get in physically if you have a key or a backup power supply.
Conclusion
As a practical, easy, and intelligent method to manage who has access to our homes and organizations, smart locks have revolutionized safety. They provide unparalleled privacy and ease with advanced features, including keyless access, remote unlocking, real-time monitoring, and programmed opening and closing times.
Wi-Fi smart locks may communicate with one another directly without the need for a gateway, bridge, or hub. There are several reasons to buy a smart lock with Wi-Fi, including connectivity with other smart devices, convenience, and protection. You ought to consider whether you require Wi-Fi connection when purchasing a Philips smart lock.
