Web Exclusive: Just How Safe Are Electronic Locks?

By Joseph Kingma

Medeco door lock. There’s no question that electronic locks are a popular choice for many applications. Most install easily, require no wiring, and are compatible with existing hardware. Access can be approved or limited with a few keystrokes. But can facility managers rely on their security?

The short answer is yes, but just like all other security products, you have to consider all the variables and know what steps to take to ensure you identify the best solution for your needs.

You get what you pay for
Cheap, poorly designed products will often incorporate shortcuts that can result in security flaws. Not every door needs the highest level of protection, but when significant loss or liability can result from unauthorized access, consider your security system an investment that pays future benefits.

Choose wisely
Choose a hardware provider with the right product for your security requirements. In the digital lock world, one size does NOT fit all. An established vendor will offer a wide variety of options to match your needs and your budget, and new product categories like electronic cylinders offer solutions that were previously difficult to achieve.

Evaluate weaknesses
The override mechanism to an electronic lock can be a weak link that deserves special scrutiny. For better protection while preserving convenience, consider an override cylinder that can share the same credential for electronic and mechanically secured doors.

Ask the experts
Ask your security consultant or vendor if the electronic locks you are considering meet the legal requirements for your industry. For example, hospitals, universities, and airports have specific security minimums that must be met for protected areas.

Conduct regular audits
Many electronic locks are equipped to provide ingress and egress reports, but most users don’t check them until after an incident has occurred. By proactively auditing these reports, you may detect patterns or suspicious activity that warrants further action.

Equipped with security features like access control, audit, and scheduling capability, electronic locks offer a new generation of protection and make it easier to secure and manage one or thousands of facilities. Understanding your specific vulnerabilities, researching your options, and asking the right questions before purchasing will ensure your facility benefits from this advanced and reliable technology.

Kingma is director of eCylinder business development for Medeco.