How do smart locks work?

Smart locks work by replacing your door lock with a digital system, meaning you do not need a physical key to enter or lock your property.

Instead, the lock is connected to your smartphone via Bluetooth, Wi-Fi or another wireless connection which allows you to remotely lock and unlock the door via a smartphone app.

Some smart locks replace only the deadbolt part of your lock, while others replace the whole system, including the door handle.

Depending on the model of smart lock you choose, the digital lock could be operated via a PIN code, your biometrics (using fingerprints or face recognition technology), a fob or voice recognition. The Verisure LockGuard can be unlocked with a security code, a fob, or the Verisure smartphone app.

These locks are often used by rental property and Airbnb owners as they allow an administrator to change the combination or add or remove guest access without having to change the whole lock.

Smart locks are either hard-wired in or, like the Verisure LockGuard, battery-powered. Both types tend to be equipped with a manual backup so you can still lock and unlock your door in the event of a power outage or if the battery dies, which means you’re not completely rid of the necessity of having a physical key.