You’ve likely seen the long list of smart locks on the market ranging from Z-Wave to WiFi smart lock technology. But wading through the sheer number of products online can make it difficult to choose one.
In this post, we cover the three things you should know before buying a WiFi smart lock. Then, we give you a list of things to look for in the best WiFi door lock!
In this post, you’ll discover:
- What is a WiFi smart lock?
- 3 things to know before you buy WiFi locks
- Do you need a WiFi smart lock?
- Integrating WiFi smart locks with other proptech
What is a WiFi smart lock?
A WiFi smart lock is any smart lock that connects to WiFi to empower users to remotely lock and unlock doors and manage access for visitors. Most WiFi smart locks have a built-in WiFi connection, eliminating the need for external hardware like adapters, hubs, and WiFi or wireless bridges.
Many modern buildings now rely on some form of smart door lock rather than traditional locks with keyholes.
Types of buildings that use WiFi smart locks:
- Apartment buildings
- Senior homes
- Student housing
- Office buildings
- Single-family homes
A smart lock can make each of these buildings safer and offer overall convenience to residents and property managers.
Types of smart lock connectivity
There’s more than one connection type when it comes to smart locks. Follow along below as we break down the differences.
Types of smart lock connectivity:
- Bluetooth: Bluetooth smart locks allow entry through a smartphone’s Bluetooth connection when it’s within range of a lock.
- WiFi: A WiFi smart lock connects directly to WiFi without the assistance of a gateway.
- Z-Wave: A smart lock that uses a Z-Wave hub to connect to a building’s WiFi.
3 things to know before you buy WiFi locks
We’ve covered the basics of what a WiFi smart lock is — and the different connectivity types. Now, let’s look at some of the most common things buyers should know before they buy.
What to know about WiFi smart locks:
1. Connecting a smart lock to WiFi
2. Connectivity troubleshooting
3. Choosing the best WiFi door lock
1. Connecting a smart lock to WiFi
The biggest question most people have when deciding whether to install a WiFi lock is how does a smart lock connect to WiFi?
Connecting a WiFi door lock isn’t that difficult to figure out and doesn’t take long. All you need is your smartphone, a working WiFi network, and the smart lock manual.
For most WiFi smart door locks, you’ll need to:
- Turn on the smart lock.
- Download and open the smart lock’s mobile app on your smartphone.
- Select the desired lock from within the app and look for a ‘Settings’ section or similar page.
- Follow the prompts to connect the lock to WiFi (you’ll likely need to enter the WiFi network’s password).
- Test the lock to ensure it’s properly connected.
Carefully read the instruction manual for your new WiFi lock to identify the list of instructions specific to your model.
2. Connectivity troubleshooting
Another concern you may have is what happens to a smart lock when the WiFi goes out.
Batteries power most smart locks. This means that in the case of a power outage or internet disconnection, the lock will continue to work. In most cases, users can still unlock the door by entering a PIN code, scanning their fingerprint, or using a physical key, depending on the smart lock model.
However, even though the lock will continue to work, remote and smartphone use will be restricted until the network is restored.
3. Choosing the best WiFi door lock
There are many smart locks on the market, but you’re not looking for just any lock. You want to know what is the best WiFi door lock for your needs. Below are a few things to look for that will help you make your final decision.
What to look for in a WiFi smart lock:
- Integration capabilities: With smart door locks, you’ll enhance the user experience by integrating with other proptech systems. This means you could potentially integrate your smart lock with a video intercom or other access control system — which enhances accessibility throughout your building.
- Remote access: When shopping around, make sure the smart lock you want to purchase enables remote access. This means that access can be controlled by one’s smartphone without being present.
- Battery life: One of the most important factors when looking for a WiFi door lock is battery life. You should shop for the best smart locks with the longest battery life. Plus, some even come with rechargeable batteries.
Learn about touchless entry with ButterflyMX:
Do you need a WiFi smart lock?
You’ve asked the questions, you’ve done your shopping, and now you want to know why you need smart locks in your building. We’ve found that there are three main benefits to investing in WiFi smart door locks.
Reasons to use a WiFi lock:
- Convenience: WiFi door locks make it simple for residents to use their smartphones for touchless entry. With this kind of lock, losing keys and fobs is a thing of the past.
- Security: With a WiFi smart lock, you can easily monitor usage and review door entry history from the app.
- Affordability: Most smart locks are less expensive than other door access systems. They also offer an easy starting point in case you decide to integrate with more access control technologies later.
Integrating WiFi smart locks with other proptech
Your WiFi lock is a great device on its own, especially if you’re only looking for a simple solution. But you’ve come this far, so why settle for simple?
When you integrate your smart locks with the rest of your building’s access control technology, you can create an even better and more secure access experience. Furthermore, residents can enjoy keyless entry into and throughout the building when a WiFi lock is integrated with a video intercom, keypad devices, and other solutions.
For example, ButterflyMX access control products integrate with more than 80 smart lock models, including Yale, Schlage, and August. This empowers residents to access the front entrance, amenity spaces, garages, elevators, and even their apartment units from just one mobile app.
Takeaways
- WiFi smart locks have a built-in WiFi connection that allows them to connect without a gateway, bridge, or hub.
- Other types of smart lock connections include Bluetooth and Z-Wave.
- When the WiFi goes out, smart locks can still be used without remote options.
- The best WiFi lock will integrate with other cloud-based technology, allow remote access, and have long-lasting battery life.
- There are many reasons to get a smart lock with WiFi, including integration with other smart systems, convenience, and security.
