Smart door locks: More access control and less administration

Craftsmanship 4.0: Thanks to digital systems, tradespeople automatically benefit from increased security and more efficient processes without the hassle of keys – but what should businesses pay attention to when buying them?

This article is part of the special topic Digital Crafts

The Key management is often complicated and time-consuming for craft businesses: On-site access authorizations for employees, project partners, suppliers, and customers must first be granted and then revoked, and keys can be lost at any time. Smart door locks solve all of these problems simultaneously. Digital keys offer a unique security advantage, especially in craft businesses where employees commute flexibly between the office, salesroom, workshop, warehouse, and construction site. clear advantages over conventional locking systems.

Easily manage access rights

A particular advantage of smart door locks is the efficient management of access rights: Loss of keys or The costly duplication of keys is a thing of the pastInstead, access rights can be granted or revoked digitally and to the minute – for example, via an app or a central software solution. Most smart door locks have many possible options for opening a door, for example via a Keypad mittels Fingerprint scanner or personalized PINs, to App, With Remote controls, SmartTags or over digital keys, such as Apple HomeKey. This allows also temporary access for subcontractors, cleaning staff, or delivery services without having to hand over and collect physical keys. This can be a noticeable relief, especially for small and medium-sized craft businesses, where the organizational burden often falls on a few shoulders.

Fast installation

Installing a smart door lock is usually straightforward and can be completed in just a few minutes. without drilling or screwing The motorized drive is attached to the inside of a door via the inserted key. Most smart door locks are compatible with existing locking cylinders. Some providers even include suitable cylinders for replacement. Hiring a specialist company can help avoid errors and ensure optimal functionality. It is fundamentally important that the respective door is equipped with a cylinder that has an emergency and hazard function – since there is always a key on the inside. This means that it is always possible to open the door from the outside with a second keyFinally, the smart lock is integrated into your home's Wi-Fi network.

The internet connection provides the systems with additional security benefits: This is how smart door locks can by granting personalized access rightswho entered which building or room and when. This transparency enables in sensitive areas – for example in Storage rooms with expensive tools or materials – an additional feeling of securityModern systems also rely on encrypted communication and are protected against tampering, provided regular software updates are carried out.

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Consider disadvantages

However, smart door locks also have some disadvantages: The Dependence on a digital infrastructure This can be problematic – for example, in the event of a power or internet outage, depending on the system architecture. However, since many smart door locks are equipped with batteries, access is usually still possible. In addition, data protection issues must be taken into account, especially when personal access data is collected and stored.

Plan for future security

Photo: © DHB-Grafik

When purchasing smart door locks, companies should pay particular attention to reliability, safety and ease of useA system that can be expanded to include additional doors or locations as needed ensures long-term flexibility. The question of whether the door lock is operated offline, online, or hybrid also plays a role: Offline systems are often cheaper, but offer fewer convenience featuresOnline or cloud-based solutions, on the other hand, allow centralized control in real time, but require a stable internet connection and higher IT expertise.

ConclusionSmart door locks offer tradesmen a interesting potential for optimizing access control and reducing administrative overhead. These systems can make operational processes not only more secure but also more efficient. However, an informed decision should always be made after carefully weighing costs, benefits, compatibility, and data protection.

Checklist: Smart door locks for your own business

1. Needs analysis
- Which areas should be equipped with smart door locks (e.g. main entrance, workshop, warehouse, office)?
- What problems need to be solved (e.g. key loss, unauthorized access, administrative effort)?
- Which functions are important for operation (e.g. time-controlled access authorizations, logging, remote access, personalized PIN assignment)?
- How many employees and authorized persons require access?
- What budget is available for purchase and installation?
- What long-term goals should be achieved (e.g. increased safety, more efficient workflows)?

2. System selection
- Are the smart door locks suitable for existing doors (e.g. DIN cylinders, screw-on locks)?
- Do the locks comply with current security standards (e.g., VdS)? Do they feature tamper-proof technologies (e.g., encryption, anti-drill protection)?
- What access options are required (e.g. PIN codes, NFC, app, fingerprint)?
- Is the operation intuitive and easy for all employees?
- Does the manufacturer offer user-friendly software for managing access authorizations and logs?
- How is the power supply (battery, hard-wired)? How long is the battery life, and are there low battery warnings?
- Should there be time-limited access rights (e.g. for customers or service providers)?

3. Installation
- Are structural changes or a replacement of the locking cylinder necessary?
- Who is responsible for configuring and setting up the software?
- Is employee training necessary to operate the system?

4. Maintenance
- How much maintenance is required (e.g. battery replacement, charging)?
- Are there regular software updates and which employee carries them out?
- Does the manufacturer offer reliable support in case of problems?
- How is data security ensured (e.g. encryption of data transmission and storage)?

5. Data protection and legal matters
- Does the system meet the requirements of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)?
- How are personal data (e.g. access logs) stored and processed?

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