The Pros and Cons of Keyless Entry for Homeowners

Access Control HialeahThere is a good chance you have seen commercials or advertisements for residential keyless entry locks pop up more and more often in the last few years. These devices are becoming an increasingly popular alternative to traditional lock types, but how can you be sure that keyless entry locks are right for your household? If you want to know more about the pros and cons of these devices, read on! Familiarizing yourself with both the benefits and downsides of keyless entry locks will help solidify your decision on whether or not to install them in the future.

 

Keyless Entry Pros

• No More Lockouts

With a keyless entry device, you won’t have to rely on a traditional key to lock and unlock your home. This eliminates the risk that you will become locked out since you have no key to lose in the first place.

• Enhanced Security

Electronic or keyless entry locks of any kind are far more secure than traditional locks. They are nearly impossible to break-in to. These devices typically require a 4-or-5-digit security code to allow homeowners access. If the wrong code is entered incorrectly too many times, the device will lock completely for around ten minutes or more, making it so that no one can enter your home.

 

Read more on: http://www.hialeahlocksmith.com/news/article/the-pros-and-cons-of-keyless-entry-for-homeowners.html

Hialeah Locksmith – Master Pins in Locks, What They Are Used for, Why You Don’t Want Them

High Security Locks

Are you thinking about getting one or a few master keys for your locks? Why not contact us at Hialeah locksmith in Hialeah, FL? We can make master keys for your locks and we have some of the most incredibly low prices for our services. Give us a call and see how affordable we are.

Why do you want to create master keys though? Are you tired of having a lot of keys and you want to make it more convenient for you? That’s a great reason to get master keys. But, have you ever stopped to think about the downside to getting them? Maybe you should. It may significantly affect your decision to get them created.

 

What Are Master Pins?

To know what master pins are, you have to know a little bit about how a lock works. So, here goes. All locks have pins inside them. These pins are what help your locks to identify the keys that you put inside it. Have you ever noticed that even though you may have two locks with similar keys you cannot open the lock if you interchange the keys? That’s because of the pins in the locks.

The master pin is the pin in the lock that allows a master to key to work. Consider this. If you live in an apartment, the building manager may have a key that opens your door and other doors on your floor. Yet, your key can only open your door. This means that the master pin in all those locks will allow that one key to open them. But, it will prevent other keys from doing so.

If your master key is created correctly, this will always be the case. No other key except the master and the regular key will be able to open that lock. But, there are some drawbacks to having that master pin in your lock.

 

Are Master Pins Safe?

Master Pins are not the safest idea especially for exterior locks. Your master key is not as specific as your regular key. This means that once you have a master pin in your lock, it puts you at risk. Less specific keys may be able to open that lock. While this doesn’t mean that you must or you will experience a break-in, it does mean that your security is not as good as it can be.

Some people may argue that locks with master pins are just as safe as those without it. But, if you really examine the possibilities and the risks associated with both types of situations, it is undeniable that master pins can really jeopardize your safety.

 

Master Keys– Pros and Cons

Although master pins can compromise your security, there are some benefits to having master keys that makes it worth considering. It really boils down to what your priorities are and what’s best for your situation. Take a look at these pros and cons for having master keys to see if it is the best choice for you to make.

Pros

  • They are very convenient

Try walking around with a big bunch of keys for a few days and see how it feels. If you have been doing it all along, you know how burdensome it can be. Imagine now that you don’t need half of those keys anymore. Wouldn’t that significantly decrease your load? This is what having a master key can do for you. It is easy for you to move from several keys to just one. As long as all the locks are compatible, a master key can be created so they can all be accessed with that single key.

 

  • They are easy to use

There is not trick or special way to use master keys. There is no code or programming that you have to worry about. You simply insert the key just like any other key and turn it to open the lock. There is no rocket science about it. As long as the key was made properly, you will have no issues using the key.

 

Read more on: Hialeah Locksmith – Master Pins in Locks, What They Are Used for, Why You Don’t Want Them

Ways that Your Business Can Benefit from Keyless Locks

There is no doubt about it; keyless locks afford you a higher level of convenience and security. It can be a challenge trying to find what is going to be right for your commercial business in terms of security. Many would agree that your security begins with your choosing the right type of locks to have installed. You have to consider the security of your employees, information stored inside your business and the protection of your merchandise. This is a lot to consider and that is why our locksmiths at Hialeah Locksmith in Hialeah, FL, are called upon to assist when a business owner isn’t sure which direction to go. In terms of security, they know they can turn to a security firm but their budget may not allow them to take advantage of the security features offered, at this time. However, relying on the services of a locksmith can render a business, practical and affordable solutions for their security. Again, it all begins with the locks that are installed. With so many keyless options available to you and due to the many benefits of having this type of lock, we strongly recommend this type of lock to our customers. Below, we have broken down some of the benefits of having keyless locks installed.

 

Access Control

How You Benefit from Keyless Locks

 

  • Monitoring of who is on your property at any given time
  • A record of who was in and out of your business
  • Theft is minimized
  • Those in a management position or other employees in position of authority can be granted access into specific areas of your business
  • Employees can quickly and easily be added to your system and it will not affect any other employees ability to gain access
  • If an employee leaves, their key can be quickly de-activated, even remotely
  • There is no lost or stolen keys to worry about
  • No one can gain entry back inside your building if you do not want them to
  • You can get inside quickly as there are no keys that you’ll have to look for
  • A locksmith can develop a master fob key program so that you are able to keep up with who has which fob
  • Entry can be afforded to specific people at specific times and days
  • Temporary employees fob key can be programmed for them to only have access during specific times of the day and into specific areas of your business
  • After hours access can be denied to certain employees

 

Since locksmith companies are now able to install and program your keyless lock systems, we are often called upon to do so. Now that you can see some of the many advantages of having a keyless entry, you may be considering having them installed for your commercial business. However, it may help to convince you even further if you know the various types of keyless locks offered to you.

 

Types of Keyless Locks Offered

 

  1. Electronic Key Locks

 

  • Access can still be granted even during a power outage as there is usually a lock override feature
  • The code used to gain access can be changed quickly if compromised
  • We can program specific codes for the permanent employees and specific codes for temporary employees
  • It is battery operated, which means it can replaced easily
  • You can monitor who is coming and going
  • Can be monitored remotely

 

This is just the tip of the iceberg; there are so many benefits that this type of keyless locks offers to you that we can’t mention them all. Our associates are more than happy to discuss the various benefits offered to you, which might be of use to you.

 

  1. Electronic Keypad Lever Combo

 

  • No standard key necessary, only a fob key or code
  • The override feature will enable you to gain access even during a power outage
  • You can see who has been in and out of your business
  • You can monitor how long someone has been in your business
  • You can monitor when employees come and go
  • Codes can be changed remotely
  • Most are battery operated
  • Since some are offered without hard-wiring, it can be far less expensive than those that require hard-wiring
  • Can monitor your business remotely

 

This is another popular option that offers a little more functionality than the previous keyless lock. While they do have similar features, it may be a good idea to discuss the various features in detail with one of our knowledgeable associates so that you can make a well-informed decision about the ones you have installed.

 

 

  1. Keypad Devices

    Manual Keypad Locks

 

  • This lock offers both a deadbolt locking feature and knob
  • It is easy to program and to use
  • Codes are quickly and easily changed
  • There is a storeroom version, which locks the door immediately upon your exiting the area
  • It is the deadbolt version that will enable you to keep the door unlocked whenever you choose to
  • It doesn’t require batteries

 

Many homeowners find the practical value in using this type of lock. There used to be locks that were only used for commercial purposes that are now useful and affordable for home use also. When you consider the benefits, it isn’t hard to see why this is the case. The level of convenience alone is a good enough reason to get some people to invest in this type of system. No more waiting for someone to let you in who has a key, no need to hire someone to sign people in and out and the overall protection of knowing who is coming and going are all great reasons to consider the various types of commercial keyless locks offered today. While you used to only find them in government buildings, you now find them in more places than ever. There is a reason for this and now you can clearly see why. We’re happy to assist you further if this is something that you are considering. We can tell you for certain that it is well worth the investment.

WEATHER CHANGES AFFECT DOOR LOCKS

Weather can affect many things; our moods, our clothing, our habits and even our locks! Here in Hialeah, FL we are used to weather changes. We can have pleasant, temperate climate one day and howling wind or intense humidity the next. It’s important that we realize how weather changes can affect our locks at home, in our car or at our place of business. Usually, when we think about our locks, we hope that they work and we might wonder if it’s time for maintenance but most hardly consider that our local weather may play a part in how our locks work and interact with us.

Home Lockouts

Warm weather

We live in Florida – the Sunshine State! That being said, we are used to having warm weather for most of the year. There are times though, that switching from cooler weather to warm will make our doors frames swell just a bit. This action can sometimes cause our locks to become stuck. This often occurs when the bolt of a lock is inserted into a wood door frame that has slightly swollen due to a warmer change in temperature.

What about winter?

Our Hialeah, FL winters are very mild and we don’t often get freezing or below freezing temperatures. Many of our residents have moved here from other parts of the globe and have experienced ultra-cold temperatures that can and do affect how their locks work. In colder weather, door frames contract instead of expand and this can surely affect your locks. Door frame contraction makes it very difficult for you to turn the key in your lock and this often results in key breakage and the need for emergency extraction service. There is a short term remedy for this and that is to pull the handle of the door knob somewhat harder. What this does is to re-center the lock with the door frame and make it easier for the key to turn.

Car locks in winter

As stated earlier, it hardly freezes here in Hialeah, Florida but once in a while it does, and in case you are visiting other locales that do freeze in winter season, it pays to know what to expect in the way of cold lock behavior. We mention car locks because these particular ones are affected most due to the constant exposure of the elements. What happens is that moisture can get inside the lock and freeze. This prevents the key from working as it can’t enter and it also jams up the remote opener as well. We’ve heard of some people pouring boiling water over their winter exposed locks in order to “unfreeze” them but Hialeah Locksmith does NOT recommend doing this as freezing cold locks suddenly doused in boiling hot liquid can do more damage than the temperature extremes!

Cold weather tips

Here in Hialeah we are so used to warm, humid weather that when we don’t get it, our locks can suffer. This is why they must be installed right and maintained regularly. If you have locks now that need repair or replacement, it’s a good idea to use a licensed, bonded and insured locksmith to do the work. Not only will your locks work better and last longer due to proper installation and selection, but your locksmith will be able to recommend proper all-weather protection for them that includes the hottest summers and the most frigid winter climates.

Another idea to help with lock and key troubles during winter months is to replace troublesome door frames with non-wood ones. This is one smart way to avoid door frame contraction that can negatively affect your key use. Alternate materials include fiberglass, steel and aluminum.

High Security Locks

Lubricating your locks

Lubricating your locks is not just for colder climates. All locks deserve to be maintained all year long and lubricating yours should be done at least once a year. Ideally, the locks should be disassembled and the insides should be sprayed with a quality lubricant. If you have experience doing this; more power to you. If you don’t have experience or the inclination to learn lock maintenance, hire a local Hialeah locksmith to do the work for you. Why lubricate your locks? Simple; well lubed and maintained locks react better to weather changes and extremes, both hot and cold. If you use a professional locksmith to maintain and lubricate your locks, be sure to ask him or her about regular maintenance service and you just might get a discount on this for signing up for multiple visits.

Old locks = trouble!

Weather changes can affect older locks, especially ones that are worn out or damaged. The back and forth of hot and cold and in-between temperatures can render these locks difficult to work with or even useless, given enough time and wear. If you are experiencing lock problems like key sticking or difficult to turn deadbolts, then seriously consider lock replacement. We encourage you to call our shop or your favorite local full service locksmith firm and have new locks installed in place of these older, worn ones.

Call a locksmith anyway!

You should always have access to quality locksmith service, no matter what the weather is like. Even if your locks seem fine and you are not locked out, you should always have near-immediate access to a licensed, bonded and insured team of 24-hour professionals. If you wait until you actually need the help of a lock and key technician, you will not have the time to pre-select a well-established, skilled professional. Why not make some calls and ask some questions now, while you are not under stress from having a broken off-key or a non-responsive lock? Look for a locksmith shop that offers free price quotes, affordable prices and responsive, 24-hour emergency service. Weather can affect locks both outdoors and indoors so be sure to find a shop that offers not only emergency service but also residential, commercial and automotive help, as well. As a last step, be sure to add their phone number to your smart phone for easy and fast access to them, anytime!

Hialeah Locksmith: Who Is Authorized To Change Locks

Home Lockouts

It isn’t a difficult task to find people who are willing to do a job, but the challenge is to find people who are actually authorized to do the job. When it comes to lock changing or new lock installation, it is a good idea to hire someone who has experience in the area. If you try to install brand new locks and you don’t know what you are doing, several things can go wrong. Hialeah Locksmith might provide services specifically in and around Hialeah, FL but they have still taken the time to educate people as to why it is important to hire an expert to do tasks like changing locks. Read on if you’d like to know more!

Here are some mistakes that can be made if you have someone install your locks who is not authorized:

  1. The person you have install the locks might not take weather conditions into consideration. This is problematic in and of itself because certain weather conditions means that you have to have a specific kind of lock for your door, especially when that lock is exposed to outside conditions. Screws can end up loosening during harsh weather, and then the lock will fail to function. An expert will know what you need based on your location. So hire a local locksmith if you need new lock installation to avoid a lock being chosen that isn’t weather-appropriate.
  2. You might end up hiring someone to install the locks who opts for cheap, ineffective ones. If you don’t have sturdy enough locks installed, then you likely have locks that can easily be picked open by a thief. The last thing that you want to have to deal with is a break in because your locks weren’t sturdy enough. A locksmith will know which brands and styles are the most effective.
  3. If you hire someone who doesn’t know what they are doing, or if you try to install the new lock yourself, you might end up getting the wrong kind in accordance to the design of your door. Certain finishes go better with different architectures, and an expert will know exactly where you should start looking.
  4. Not using an expert can lead to failing to check the material of the door, which will lead to getting the wrong lock. Some locks aren’t compatible with certain kinds of doors. Certain locks can’t even be installed at all onto certain kinds of doors. Again, this is a problem you can avoid if you hire someone who is authorized to install new locks.

So who is authorized to install and change locks?

Residential Locksmith

When it comes to the locks on vehicles, generally speaking, you can take the vehicle to your dealership if you want to have the locks changed out. Perhaps your car was broken into, and you no longer find that your locks are safe and sturdy enough to do their job. Your dealership will be able to help you out, or of course an experienced lock and security provider.

When it comes to the locks at your home, the situation depends on where you live. Do you live in an apartment complex? If so, your lease agreement may prevent you from taking action into your own hands and changing the locks yourself. The reason would be that the landlord might need to get in at times. Look into what the obligations and restrictions are. Obviously if you want to have the locks changed out, your landlord should work with you, whether that entails sending over a locksmith that they trust, or being there when the locks are changed to retain a copy of the key. If you own your home, then obviously you can simply contact a locksmith without having a third party involved.

If you own a commercial property or are a business manager, then you should be allowed to authorize lock changes. As the owner of a commercial property, it is important that you already have a locksmith in mind. You will want someone that you can call for all aspects of property security. For instance, you might have questions about panic bars, or your safe might become jammed. Things can happen unexpectedly and it is a good idea to have an expert you can call when they do. So don’t just have the phone number of a locksmith for lock changes – have the phone number of a locksmith saved so that you can reach out to a professional for a variety of situations which might come up.

As you can see, a locksmith is authorized to change locks and install new locks, but different situations might entail having a third party involved when you do need to have locks swapped out. This might be the case if you lease your property, or if you lease a vehicle. Just be sure to look into the options and determine what the right one is. An expert lock and security provider won’t want to work with your locks unless they know that you have ownership of the property or can verify that the lock swap is okay with the owner.

Remember to consider changing your locks if you have just moved into a new property. You can never know how many people might have had access to your lock box or keys. Remember to change your locks after your property was victimized because of a break in. You will want to know that your new locks are strong and reliable. Remember that it is a good idea to change your locks if you are a landlord that has a new tenant – at the very least, you might want to just have your locks rekeyed. There are numerous situations that call for lock changes. Just bear in mind the importance of staying on top of property security, and if you live in Hialeah, Florida you can call the team at Hialeah Locksmith for a free consultation!

Knowing When to Change Your Home Locks

 

High Security Locks

Changing your locks should be a part of your home maintenance. This is something that you should actually do once a year to ensure the security of your home. If your family and the things you’ve worked hard to acquire are important to you, make sure you protect them by having you locks systematically changed. There are additional reasons for having your locks changed. Below, we have highlighted some of these reasons.

 

  • Stolen/Lost Keys

When you can’t find you’re keys, don’t assume they are lost; someone may have actually taken them without your seeing them. When this occurs, it often means they know where your car or home is located. This is a good reason for changing your locks. If someone should happen to find your keys and return them, this doesn’t mean that they haven’t duplicated the keys. To be on the safe side, have the locks changed.

 

  • When You Move

If your moving into a new home, no matter if it is an apartment, condo or house, the locks should be changed. This should be taken care of prior to your moving into your new home. If it has not been done by the time you are scheduled to move in, do not move in. Why take the chance of having someone break-in and take your valuables when you do not have to. Rather, have the locks changes as quickly as possible.

 

  • When Someone Else Had Your Keys

If you had to leave the keys to your home in the hands of someone else, even after receiving the keys back, change the locks. This would apply when you have to leave keys with a service professional. While the keys are in their possession, they could quit easily have them duplicated. Rather be safe than sorry by having the locks changed.

 

  • Separation/Divorce

Regardless of whether it is a separation or divorce, it is always in your best interest to have the locks changed. Some may reason that their relationship is ending on good terms. This doesn’t really matter. You never know at what stage, if ever, things could change. You just want to make sure that if things do change, you and your valuables are protected.

 

  • Someone Moving Out

If you have a border or a roommate that is moving out of your home, this is a good time to change the locks. No doubt, you have given them a specified amount of time to stay. Once that time has come and gone, it is safe to change the locks. This doesn’t matter if you trust them or not. You never know if they may try to come back at a later date, uninvited. Be prepared if they do.

 

  • When Locks Are Worn

When you have locks that are old and worn, change them. The locks that are in this condition can be easily compromised. Not only are they easier to break but they may not work when you need them to. Whenever you start to notice rust around your locks, it is time to contact us at Hialeah Locksmith in Hialeah, FL to change the locks for you. We offer around the clock servicing.

 

  • An Attempted Break-in

When it appears as though your locks have been tampered with, it is definitely a good enough reason to change the locks. They may not have been successful in their attempts but they may have weakened the lock. If your lock is not working or your key will not open the door, this is an indication that someone may have tampered with your locks. The same goes when it comes to your garage door. If it looks as though someone has tried to gain entry through your garage door, have the locks changed immediately.

 

  • Dated Locks

If you have the same locks on your doors that were there when the house was built 50 years ago, what are you waiting for; change the locks. Old and worn locks cannot only become problematic they can also be easily broken by a skilled and non-skilled burglar. When a lock gets older and more obsolete, it might begin to lose its ability to keep out intruders. As burglars become more adept at breaking locks, the older ones will certainly pose no problem for them. Make it difficult for someone to break into your home by changing the locks every couple of years.

 

  • If Your Electronic Locks Look Strange

    Home Lockouts

It is true that it would be a lot more difficult to determine if an electronic lock or smart lock has been compromised but it is possible. If something looks strange, like the cover is lifted, it might be a good idea to have the codes changed. It is a lot more difficult to compromise these types of locks but not impossible for someone who handles the programming of them. Be on the safe side and change the codes if you suspect anything.

 

In most cases, we just tell our customers to be aware of their locks. Look down every now and then to see what the locks look like. If you notice something that doesn’t look right, don’t take the chance of continuing to go on with your day as though nothing has happened. Contact a local locksmith today in order to schedule an appointment for someone to change the lock. You shouldn’t take unnecessary chances when it comes to the safety and security of you and your loved ones. Make it a priority to change the locks annually. This will no doubt give you the peace-of-mind that you deserve. When you want to remain safe within your home, pay close attention to the condition of the locks on your doors and windows. If they look suspicious, do not take your time about contacting Hialeah Locksmith to change them for you. We work around the clock to ensure that our customers are always safe and sound. We don’t take chances with the safety of our customers and neither should you.

Lock maintenance

Well, here’s a subject people hardly think of! Lock maintenance is never at the front of our minds when we grab a key and use it to access our homes or car. We buy or install locks and expect them to work when we need them to; every time! Good quality locks can last for decades and that’s even with regular use. One thing is quite certain, though; locks do need periodic maintenance if they are to work on demand and last for their full life cycle. Hialeah Locksmith offers these helpful and timely tips that are easy to follow and can go a long way towards making your home, business or auto locks last longer and work better!

Home Lockouts

Wait; I’m not a locksmith!

No worries! You don’t have to be a lock expert in order to apply basic maintenance for yours. Start by cleaning the exterior part of the lock. Use a damp cloth and simply wipe the lock clean. Don’t fall into the trap of using harsh chemical cleansers; they can damage your lock’ exterior finish as they are very abrasive and not necessary at all. If you insist on using some kind of cleanser, just make sure it isn’t petroleum based and you should be just fine.

Lube job!

About once a year try and lubricate your locks. Again, avoid petroleum based products for this simple job. Use a dry lubricant like Teflon or graphite, instead. Since here in Hialeah, FL we live in a very humid and hot climate that is often wet, it is important that we keep our locks well maintained for maximum performance and longevity.

Simply spray the lubricant into the lock (where the key goes!) and insert your key. Remove it and wipe it clean. Do this again and again until the key comes out clean. For those that feel that they can do it correctly, remove the entire lock and lubricate the latch and the bolt, too.

Check your door!

Your door should be hung correctly if you want to maintain your locks longer. A door that sags even a little puts undue pressure on your locks, and makes them wear out faster. Close your door and check to make sure that the gap between the door and the frame is the same from the top all the way to the bottom. It should be about an eighth of inch for most doors. If your door is indeed sagging, call a trusted handyman or your favorite Hialeah, FL locksmith to adjust it. If you feel that you can do the work yourself, go ahead and do it and save yourself a service call.

Strike plates and deadbolts

Check your strike plate for damage. Broken ones can damage locks so check yours for any wear. The deadlatch should align with it. If you are unsure about any of this, go online and watch any of dozens of YouTube videos on the subject. Speaking of alignment and balance, check your deadbolt locks. Lock them and observe how they performed. Did the deadbolt lock easily and smartly or did you have to struggle to lock it or even lift the door a bit to make it work?

Duplicate key

Hialeah Locksmith suggests that you make duplicate keys ONLY from the original. Locks last longer that the keys that open them do. People use keys for a plethora of uses, not always to open locks. We rip open boxes with them, puncture, tear and snap items apart with them and over time and use, they lose their “edge.” What most people don’t know is that using a worn key in your lock tends to damage and wear the lock down, as well. Using worn keys is largely responsible for having to jiggle the key in the lock in order to make it work. When a key starts to show wear, replace it only with a duplicate made from the original!

High Security Locks

Avoid slamming the door!

Not only is door slamming rude and annoying, it damages the locks, too! In addition, it puts excess wear and tear on the door and hinges. Not to get on a soapbox but if you really want to make a point; find a better way than to slam the door! We’ve heard some customers say that door won’t shut properly without slamming. Doing this only makes it worse as doors should shut completely and easily. If you have a commercial door with a door closer attached, check it and adjust accordingly so that it doesn’t slam.

Your key is a key; it’s NOT a knob!

We’ve all done it at some point. We insert the key in the lock, turn it, and use the key handle as a knob to pull open the door. This is not good for the key or the lock. It adds pressure on the lock’s inner mechanisms and over time, can wear it out to the point that replacement is needed. There’s another problem with this habit; you can forget that the key is in the lock and leave it there for next time! This allows the next person to have easy access to your property. Best advice; no keys as doorknobs!

Lock maintenance tells a story

Not like a good book story, but it does reveal the condition of the lock. This is because taking a closer look at your locks, keys, hinges and plates can reveal their overall condition that you might not have noticed otherwise. This can lead you to adjust, fix, replace or update them as needed.

Make any adjustments or repairs that you feel comfortable doing yourself, and for the others, call a local handyman or locksmith. For more advanced or specialized locks and hardware work with a full service, licensed, bonded and insured lock professional. Find one that offers 24-hour mobile assistance and that gives free and accurate price quotes and consultations. Remember; your locks are only as good as you allow them to be so take care of them and they will do their job longer and better!

HOW TO HAVE OPTIMAL SECURITY FOR YOUR COMMERCIAL PROPERTY

Access Control is Indispensable

To keep your commercial building secure and safe, there are certain principles that apply. In order for the security measures you take to be successful, you’ll have to establish an access control system, which means that only you, or the people you approve, will ever gain access to your property. First, an access control system is put in place to protect your property from any unauthorized access, so therefore, you control the movement of the people inside. The truth is, nowadays, everything ~ from opening your car door and starting your vehicle, to opening your hotel room, to logging in to your computer, to entering a restricted area, and even to launching a missile, is protected by access control.

Keypad Devices

For effective access control, set up 3 basic aspects:

1       Identify. The system you choose must enable you to confirm, without a doubt, the genuine identification of any person desiring entry to your property, or wanting permission to have access to any restricted area.

2       Authenticate. After your system is able to authenticate and completely confirm an individual’s identity, you’ll know that it’s acceptable to allow that person access to the property, or to a secure area. There are many ways to conduct authentication ~ from ID smartcards, to smart devices, passwords, encryption keys, eye scans, fingerprints, and additional biometrics.

  1. Authorize. Based upon criteria that you choose for your access control system, with successful identification and authentication, a person will ultimately be granted authorization to enter.

 

When Visualizing Your Access Control System, Things to Consider

With suitable access control, your building will remain effectively safe and secure, because you’ll control the movement of everybody entering and leaving the property. To decide how you’ll put together your access control system, it’s vital to set a list of criteria for particular individuals, as well as for categories of persons (i.e., employees, VIPs, visitors, guards, delivery people, and so forth) who will be permitted either full or partial access. You will need to establish specific parameters for each kind of access. That is, you may give some people permission to go almost anywhere (full access); others will be allowed to enter specified sensitive areas (you may want to set up various levels of high-security clearance); finally, others may be allowed very limited public access (partial access).

 

Common Access Control Systems

Gate entry. If you install a security gate, you will be able to monitor the movement of everyone who comes in and goes out. You’ll provide each person with an appropriate security clearance level based upon conditions you’ve determined.

Surveillance cameras. You’ll likely want to consider installing a video surveillance system to monitor your areas calling for heightened security. Your property’s security requirements will tell you the level of image resolution you need. You also ought to consider some additional aspects of your system’s setup. For example, do you want to record 24/7, and keep video footage of all activity? Do you want your surveillance cameras to have sophisticated software that allows for various types of capture capabilities? This would include time-and-date stamp code, vehicle plate recognition, facial recognition, and other top-security monitoring and access-control functions.

Intruder detection. Install intruder alarms and motion detectors ~ indoors and outdoors ~ depending upon where you need protection the most. You’ll be alerted if there is an intrusion detected at a particular area or at any entry point.

Biometric measurements. User names, passwords, identification cards, keys, smart devices, and so on can be counterfeited or stolen by professional crooks; on the other hand, biometrics can’t be faked. Should you desire exceptional security, to block entry by imposters, biometric readers take access control to a whole new level for sure. You’ll be absolutely certain that only the individuals with acceptable clearance will gain access to any sensitive area. A biometric reader scans the unique features of a person. Cutting-edge methods of verification today are handprints, fingerprints, and retina scans. Additional biometric measurements that may become routine in the near future are voice print recognition, ear scans, and even heartbeat identification and DNA sampling!

 

Access Control System Benefits

Access Control

Discouraging criminal activity. When potential vandals, robbers, and arsonists see the level of your building’s access control system, they’ll be much more likely to stay away. The proper level of access control ~ based on your location, your activities, your industry, and any other express requirements ~ will essentially make anyone with criminal intentions think again and move on.

Building safety. Limit the number of persons (such as in a nightclub or theater) so you’ll know you’re fully adhering to the local fire code. It’s important to customize your access control system to your location and to your line of business. For instance, you’ll prevent an industrial accident from happening by controlling the number of people allowed in a hazardous area in your building.

Tracking information. Access control not only prevents unwanted visitors, unauthorized personnel, and thieves from entering your facility or its restricted areas, you’ll also be able to electronically and digitally record activities for future reference ~ gathering information which can be utilized in reports or investigations. You can assist individuals who get into trouble anywhere in the building, because you can identify them quickly and see their exact whereabouts. The same goes for identifying an intruder, should the worst occur.

Hire a highly qualified professional who will first help you determine every one of your security needs, and then, according to your desires and budget, guide you to the best ways to implement each aspect of your requirements. Once your access control system is installed, tested, and up and running, you’ll also want the expertise of a reliable security professional able to teach you and your team how to use your access control system efficiently. Make sure the company you choose will be there to respond 24/7 whenever you need help. If you’re in Hialeah, Florida, and you’re considering creating an access control system customized for your commercial property, Hialeah Locksmith is a good place to begin.

Monitored Security System

People who are serious about the safety and security of their homes and businesses invest in security systems. They play a key role in protection against intruders. In recent years there have become more and more types of security systems on the market, which offer maximum security. Since they are effective in the job that they do, more manufacturers understand the need and demand for them. At one point in time, people simply relied on their dogs to protect them against intruders and when having a security system was only for the rich. This is no longer the case. Security systems come in various types, sizes and price ranges. There is a security system that is suitable for anyone. Today, the average person can own a security system.

 

Keypad Devices

The various types of security systems offered today have different features. Every homeowner is able to determine which of features best suit their needs. A home security system can be setup according to your needs and specifications. They afford you the peace-of-mind you want and need.

 

A monitored security offers you more protection than the standard security system. A standard system will sound an alarm that alerts the homeowner that someone is on or near their property that shouldn’t be there. A monitored system works with the system to alert the appropriate authorities that will then respond to the situation. Someone else is actually monitoring your home security system. They are able to see all of the areas of your home where the monitor is programmed to watch. This serves as another set of eyes, especially since you are unable to monitor the situation when you are sleeping. The monitoring service offers you around the clock monitoring thus giving you maximum security.

 

How a Monitoring System Works

 

There are several components that have to come together so that a monitored system will work effectively. These are positioned between the home and the company that is monitoring your home. The key to a monitored system is in how the information is transmitted from one place to the other (the security provider). The process has to be streamlined. This begins with a central control panel that is monitored. This is where you set up to allow you to control your security system. This is where you would arm or disarm your security system. This is the panel that is responsible for relaying the necessary information to the service provider or monitoring service. This information lets them know what action to take, to alert the homeowner, fire department or police department. Most control panels work with motion detectors, surveillance cameras, smoke detectors and sensors that monitor your windows and doors. Every part of your system is constantly being monitored and feeds information to the monitoring service. This information is needed to effectively monitor you’re entire home.

 

 

 

Surveillance Cameras

 

This is the homeowners extra set of eyes. Since you can’t be at two places at the same time, you can at least see everything from one vantage point. The camera is either wireless or wired. It is Analog or IP. Each type can be added to your existing home security system. They can be used remotely to see things from any vantage point, whether you are at home or not.

 

Motion Sensors

 

Access Control

Motion sensors are placed all around your home to detect movement of possible intruders long before they are capable of getting too close. The same applies when it comes to protecting your windows and doors. Sensors need to be installed to monitor these areas of your home since burglars are known to use these vantage points to gain entry inside. Sensors are most useful when they are integrated into an existing security system. Newer technology makes having the sensors on your doors and windows more efficient than in years past. This is why it is most important to make sure you have them around your windows and doors. There is a reed switch and magnet that create a closed circuit. This enables the electricity to come from a single power source. If these two components are ever separated, they will transmit information to the control panel, which in turn will send information to the monitoring service. You are afforded maximum security for your home.

 

How It Keeps You Safe

 

Response time is very important when trying to remain safe. This is what makes a monitoring service such a valuable piece of equipment to have around. When you consider how large institution, such s, hospitals and police stations are able to respond to emergency situations, it is clear to see why having a monitoring service keeps us safe. Time can determine whether a person stays alive or not.

 

The time that it takes to receive the necessary information is the motivation behind the design of many of the more advanced security features today. This is why they continue to evolve over the years. When your home is being monitored, you stand a better chance of receiving the help that you need faster than someone without a monitoring service. You don’t have to be caught off guard by an intruder if you know in advance that there is someone on your property.

 

Monitoring systems can cover every part of your home. There are basically two types of monitored systems; self-monitored systems and 3rd party monitoring service. The 3rd party monitoring system enables someone other than yourself to watch your home from a different vantage point. They serve as your extra set of eyes. Giving you the peace-of-mind that you want.

 

You can always count on a reliable locksmith service in Hialeah, FL, such as, Hialeah Locksmith to help you set up your system and find the most appropriate monitoring service. They work with many different service providers to help their customers receive the best service possible. Your safety and security does not have to start with the installation of your security system, it starts and ends with a reliable and reputable monitoring service.