Smart locks sound great and convenient: you simply lock and unlock your door using your phone! There’s no hassle, no searching for your keys, and no jiggling the key around in the lock until it catches just right. A smart key won’t ever break in the lock and will never fall into the depths of your couch cushions.
But many people wonder about hackers and thieves finding a way around the system, as well as have concerns about how reliable this wireless technology is. If you have questions about smart lock safety in Fairfax, VA, read on for some insight.
How do smart locks work?
The basic idea behind a smart lock is that you can use your phone to lock and unlock your door. This technology utilizes wireless protocol and a cryptographic key, which sends signals to the device. This means you can give access to someone else even when you’re not at home. Beyond this, smart locks have functionality that monitors access to the home and can send alerts if there’s a problem.
What are the problems with smart lock security?
Smart locks work by sending a message from the smartphone to the lock and back via an encrypted message on the cloud. However, hackers are sometimes able to intercept that message and use it to gain access to your home. Hackers are able to do this via inexpensive network-sniffing devices. Other reported problems include the smart lock incorrectly reporting the door is unlocked and the smart lock failing to respond.
What should I look for when purchasing a smart lock system?
While there are security concerns when looking at smart lock systems, there are steps you can take to mitigate these issues. Many smart lock manufacturers allow users to monitor an activity log, which is very useful and will let you know immediately if your system has been compromised.
Some smart locks also have an auto lock function, which is a significant improvement over the traditional lock. Additionally, some smart lock manufacturers are addressing security problems via a firmware patch.
Just like when looking at any security product, you should be sure to ask plenty of questions and find out how exactly the manufacturer stands behind its product. Many homeowners also use a secondary physical lock just in case the smart lock is not functional. While developers and producers of smart locks still have work to do, there are already many people who prefer the convenience and ease of smart locks.
When you’re in the market for smart lock security in the greater Fairfax, VA and Washington, DC areas, Artie’s Lock and Key is here to help. For more than four decades, we’ve provided services for residential, commercial and automotive clients alike. We are proud to offer you the best locksmithing service in Fairfax, Arlington, Loudoun and Prince William counties and the surrounding communities. Our professional locksmiths are here to handle any job. Contact us today for all your lock and key needs—we look forward to assisting you!
Increasingly common in today’s vehicles, key fobs make unlocking and starting your car easier than ever before. They can remotely unlock your vehicle without the need to insert a key into your lock, with additional features differing greatly depending on your vehicle. All that being said, a key fob can stop working after a time, and you may find yourself needing a key fob replacement in Fairfax, VA.
There are many reasons your key fob may have stopped working, so you may not need to replace the device entirely. Read on for information about some of the most common issues that prevent key fobs from working properly.
Is it the battery?
Key fobs are powered by a battery system located within the device and, as with most battery-powered devices, a dead battery will keep it from working. Batteries die after prolonged use. That’s just how it is, but being unable to open your car because of a dead battery can be extremely frustrating.
That said, you could contact a locksmith in Fairfax, VA to bring you a key fob replacement or help you open your car. Once in your vehicle, you could easily buy a replacement battery for your key fob.
In order to avoid getting locked out of your car in the first place, it’s a good idea to be aware of your key fob’s battery life. If you are having to press your key fob multiple times to unlock your car, then this could be a sign of a dying battery.
Is my key fob broken?
If it isn’t the battery, then your key fob may have just died entirely. After years of use, it’s possible that your key fob has broken and you will need to get a replacement. To find out if your key fob is broken, you could try replacing the battery to see if that fixes the problem. There are also professionals who may be able to diagnose any issues with your key fob.
It may also be a good idea to contact your dealership and see if they have any recommendations. If all else fails, you will likely need to invest in key fob replacement in Fairfax, VA.
Is the problem with the car itself?
There may not be a problem with your key fob at all. It’s possible that your vehicle’s battery may have died. It’s also possible that your car is experiencing an electrical or mechanical problem, which means you’ll probably have to bring your car to an automotive repair shop in the area.
How much is a key fob replacement?
Key fob replacements can vary depending on your vehicle’s make, model, year and a variety of other factors. Having a locksmith replace your key fob can be more cost effective in many situations.
At Artie’s Lock and Key, we will easily provide you with a key fob replacement in Fairfax, VA, as well as key fob programming services to ensure your new fob works perfectly with your vehicle. For any and all locksmith service needs, contact Artie’s Lock and Key today.
There are plenty of reasons a person might need a new car key made without having the original. They may have locked the original key in their car or lost their keys entirely. No matter what the reason, being without a car key is always a frustrating situation. You may find yourself wondering how to get a replacement car key without the original in Fairfax, VA. Read on to find out!
Getting a replacement key from a locksmith
There is, of course, the option to contact your dealership and ask for a replacement car key if you have experienced a vehicle lockout. For the most part, a dealership should be able to provide you with a replacement key as you will be in their record as having purchased the vehicle. The only problem is, you will likely have to go to the dealership to pick up your key, and if the key to your only vehicle is lost, then you may need a tow truck.
Tow truck fees can be quite expensive and a big hassle, which is why many people choose to contact a locksmith instead of their car dealership. Having a locksmith in Fairfax, VA bring a car key replacement to you can save you plenty of time and money. A locksmith may even be able to help you open your car without a key.
All this being said, there is information you will need to provide to a Fairfax, VA locksmith in order for them to help open your car or provide you with a replacement car key.
Information your locksmith will need
There are several pieces of information you’ll want to have handy for when your locksmith arrives. A locksmith will want to know the make, model and year of your vehicle. They will also want to know if your keys have been stolen or were simply misplaced.
Of course, proof of ownership of the vehicle in question is needed for the locksmith to open your car or provide you with a replacement key. This will usually come in the form of your vehicle’s registration and title.
The process may also go a lot easier if you have your VIN, or vehicle identification number, on hand. This number can be found in several possible places, including the inside of your driver’s side door or in the vehicle’s manual. If you keep a car insurance card in your wallet or purse, that’s another option.
The cost of a car key replacement
If you just require a locksmith to open your car door and retrieve your keys, then you will only have to pay the locksmith’s fee. However, if you need a new key entirely, then you will have to pay a fee to have the key made. That being said, keys made by locksmiths are usually much cheaper than a replacement key from a car dealership. The cost can vary greatly depending on several factors, including the make and model of your vehicle and where you are having the replacement key made.
At Artie’s Lock and Key, we provide a variety of services, including car key replacement, door repairs, commercial locksmith services and much more. For quick and reliable locksmith services at a great price in Fairfax VA, contact Artie’s Lock and Key today.
When you need to protect your business, the term “high security door locks” is likely to come up in conversation—especially if you’re consulting a professional locksmith about security solutions. But what does “high security” really mean? How is one lock any more secure than any other? It’s a valid question, and one many Fairfax, VA business owners ask themselves when deciding between specific types of locks.
While your first instinct might be to think “high security door locks” are a sales tactic by locksmiths to see a more expensive product, there’s actually a whole lot of merit to this upper echelon of lock type. Here’s a look at what makes a lock “high security” and what having a high security lock installation means for your business.
Defining “high security” locks
High security locks are those that offer added layers of protection against unwanted intrusion. This definition is better understood in context. For example, next to a generic door handle lock, a deadbolt might be considered high security, since it offers superior protection.
On the total scale of locks, high security lock installations are defined as those with anti-tampering safeguards and locks that provide a superior degree of resistance to forced entry. They often come with peripheral reinforcements such as more rods and kick plates, or a more complicated pin system. Needless to say, the average criminal, trespasser or general ne’er-do-well isn’t going to get far drilling these locks or attempting to force their way in.
Modern-day high security door locks
Today’s modern high security locks take the concept a step further. The locking mechanisms themselves are still reinforced and heavy duty, but access control technology makes them fundamentally secure against intruders, as well. Without the right key card, passcode or biometric scan, there’s no getting past these doors.
Access control systems also offer even more security benefits that go beyond single door security, as well. For example, it’s possible to lock down an entire series of doors from a central control station in the event of an emergency. You can also revoke certain credentials if an employee loses their pass key or is fired, for example. This provides superior security at a level that goes beyond any single door or point of entry!
Security where security’s needed
A high security lock installation can be a huge cost-saving initiative for businesses in Fairfax, VA. For example, they can replace the need for CCTV at certain areas of the building by providing a steadfast defense against unwanted access. In larger buildings, they’re also a great substitute for on-site security. There’s even the cost savings of not having to cut keys or rekey or replace locks.
While security comes first with high security locks, there’s certainly an element of convenience behind them. Knowing you can rely on one of these locks to hold its own against an intruder or even deter them altogether means not having to overthink other elements of security or safety.
If you’re getting ready to upgrade your business’ locks or have been forced into the position by the failure of your current locks, consider a high security solution. It’s not a gimmick to upsell you: it’s a better class of lock for a higher level of protection.
To the casual observer, transponder car keys can seem nothing short of magic. A transponder key system is something of a misnomer, though, since there’s no physical key involved. Instead, the transponder sends a signal to the vehicle’s onboard computer, which is interpreted as lock/unlock for the car’s security system. Chances are, if you’re a Fairfax, VA resident who’s purchased a car in the past few years, you have a transponder key.
Why are transponder keys popular?
Like most access control-style locking systems, transponder key systems are popular because they’re much more secure than a traditional lock and key system. Since everything is done via low-frequency radio waves, there’s no key to duplicate or lock to pick, making it tremendously difficult for car thieves and burglars to gain access to your vehicle.
Most modern automakers have moved over to transponder keys not only because of the security, but also because of their simplicity and flexibility. It’s easier to program (and reprogram) transponder keys off the assembly line than it is to cut keys—especially microchipped keys.
How do they work?
As mentioned above, a transponder key system works by sending a signal from your key fob to the car’s onboard computer. The signal is interpreted as lock/unlock depending on the button you push and the frequency sent by the fob. Many transponder systems are also tied to the ignition system, meaning the transponder also works to start the car (think push-button ignition). The presence of radio waves signals to the vehicle that the keyholder is present.
Ever wonder why you need to be right next to a car to use the transponder key? It’s because the radio frequencies emitted by the fob are so low-level, they dissipate beyond a certain distance. Most keys need to be within five to six feet of the vehicle to work. This is by design, and it adds even more safety to the transponder key system.
How do you replace a transponder key?
Though they’re more difficult to create, getting a transponder key replacement isn’t impossible. A locksmith with the proper programming tools can create a new key that works with a vehicle’s existing transponder key system.
The trick is understanding that different manufacturers use different programming systems. For example, Ford uses its Passive Anti-Theft System (PATS) to program transponder keys, while General Motors uses Circle Plus keys and PASSKey3 (PK3) keys. These programming differences are subtle, but they affect how the transponder key communicates with the vehicle. For this reason, it’s important to work with an auto locksmith in Fairfax, VA that has the ability to program transponder key replacements for all makes and models.
Convenience and security, all in one
There are more than a few reasons why transponder key systems have become commonplace for late-model vehicles. The only inconvenient thing about them is trying to get into your vehicle without the right fob! Thankfully, there are locksmiths like Artie’s Lock and Key that can make getting a new transponder key simple, so you can get back behind the wheel.
