As a business owner or commercial property investor, you know the value of reliable security systems. Protecting your building prevents theft and vandalism while providing the protection employees or renters require to feel safe while at work. Many people have found that access control systems in Fairfax, VA provide both the security and flexibility they require.
What is an access control system?
The term “access control” applies to physical and information security in Fairfax, VA, meaning an administrator may restrict users’ access to certain places or data. Regarding the physical security of a building, facility or office, an access control system allows you to set parameters for users and access points. Staff members receive assigned smart cards that grant them access to the parts of your workplace that you want them to use.
Which access control system is right for you?
There are many variables to consider when determining the right access control system for your business or building. Working with an expert locksmith such as Artie’s Lock and Key will help guide you through the decision-making process to select the appropriate access control system for you:
- Discretionary access control (DAC): This type of access control system gives the owner the most discretion, allowing them to program the system for individuals or groups. DAC systems are the easiest to program, usually running on a standard operating system such as Windows. In most cases, administrators add users to access control lists (ACLs) that determine where they can access. However, being that DAC systems are the least restrictive, there’s opportunities for inappropriate users to make administrator-level changes to the ACLs.
- Mandatory access control (MAC): A system administrator programs a MAC system based on pre-determined settings. There’s no wiggle room when it comes to this type of access control system, as it’s the most restrictive. The system owner or administrator can only change system parameters established during installation. If your business requires maximum security, you’ll want to invest in a MAC system.
- Role-based access control: This is another term for non-discretionary access control in Fairfax, VA. During the initial setup, managers work with a system administrator to organize employees into different classifications. The system is then programmed to allow access based on the roles determined with the classification process. For example, managers can access every portion of your facility, while associates can only unlock primary access points.
- Rule-based access control (RBAC): Yes, rule-based access control differs from role-based access control. Not only are users restricted to certain areas, but they’re also only given access to these areas at certain times on certain days. An RBAC system allows for the most customization and holds employees accountable for their time spent at work.
Now that you understand the basics of access control systems in Fairfax, VA, you’ll want to get in touch with an expert to learn more about your options. Since 1975, Fairfax business and property owners have trusted Artie’s Lock and Key. Professionally-trained and equipped with the latest technology, we’re ready to go to work for you. To learn more, get in touch with us today to discuss your commercial facility’s security.
House keys generally work each time, and we likely take them for granted. That is why we may not notice they are damaged until they break off in the lock. Fortunately, broken key removal is possible, and you will be able to get back into your home again. Here are five key removal tips to help you if you find yourself in this situation in Fairfax, VA:
- Do not force the issue: Sometimes, after discovering a key broke in the lock, people panic and try to apply pressure to the half of the key in the lock that is still in there, and twist it in an effort to unlock the door. However, this just causes more problems. Rather than unlock your home, you are more likely to wedge the broken key deeper into the lock and make it more difficult to remove. This is almost never worth a try, so don’t do it!
- Find the right tools: If you have access to tools, find one with a pointed edge, like needle nose pliers, tweezers or nail scissors. These tools offer the potential to grab the broken part of the key and pull it out of the lock. Most people do not have a professional key extractor on hand, but you can make one by using a small jigsaw or hacksaw. As a last resort, use super glue or a drill.
- Try the easy way first: Tools can make the situation worse, so see if the easy way works. Before using the tools, tap the lock and see if the broken key slides out. Use a lubricant to help it if it seems like this may be the case. If this works, then you merely need to replace a key, not also remove pieces from your lock.
- Use tools correctly: As you make this attempt, do not push the key deeper into the lock. This can happen if you feel impatient or frustrated, so do not be in a hurry. If you have needle nose pliers, small scissors or tweezers, carefully place them in the lock along the sides of the key, grab it and slowly pull it out. To use a jigsaw, hacksaw or key extractor, place it into the lock next to the key and twist it to grab the key by the teeth. From there, slowly pull it out. In the most desperate situations, use super glue by applying a small amount to a wire, sticking it into the lock and pulling out the key once it adheres. Do your best not to get glue in the lock.
- Call a locksmith: The best way to remove a broken key in Fairfax, VA and avoid breaking your lock in the process is to call a mobile locksmith. While they are there, they can also cut a new house key for you and make any needed repairs. While there is a cost involved, many customers find it worth it to save time and gain peace of mind.
Artie’s Lock and Key can help you when you face broken key problems in Fairfax, VA. Do not panic—let our broken key removal skills get you inside again. Call us today if you require mobile key and lock repair.
If you need to replace car keys, the type of key determines the cost and where you need to go to get it replaced. Gone are the days when every corner hardware store could create copies of all types of car keys. Depending on the year, make and model of your vehicle, the dealership may be your only option, and those car key types are never cheap in Fairfax, VA. Here are six automotive key types and how to replace them:
- Traditional keys: There are still cars on the road that use the most basic type of car key. These keys contain no encoding or programming. They are merely cut metal that fits a lock. You can secure copies of these keys anywhere, and they typically only cost about $3 to $10 per key.
- Master key: Early cars came with a master key that was not intended for use. You kept it merely to make copies from it. If lost, they were a few hundred dollars to replace, and sometimes you needed to also replace the engine management system. That was an additional few thousand dollars to complete, so you definitely never wanted to lose your master key! You are very unlikely to run into this phenomenon now, but if you buy a used car, double check the manual to make sure you do not need a master key.
- Transponder key: A transponder key contains a microchip that offers additional security over a traditional key. Used since 1995, a sensor responds when the key is inserted into the ignition and activates the transponder. This allows the engine to start. Since the microchip is unique to the key, it can cost $40 to $100 to copy a basic transponder key. Since 1999, transponder keys have offered a rolling code, which changes every time it is used. These keys are $500 or more.
- Switchblade key: Very popular on Volkswagen models, the switchblade key folds into a key fob and flips out when you press a button. Since it is usually included with other functions, replacing this entire apparatus costs $200 to $300. However, if you only break the metal shank, it can be repaired for around $75.
- Valet key: Some makes and models allow you to create a valet key for your vehicle. This is a basic key that unlocks doors and starts the car, but will not open the trunk or glove box. Many people who regularly use valet services feel more secure giving them this basic key rather than their whole key fob.
- Smart key: This is not a key at all, but a fob. When you are in range of the car, it will unlock it and start the car with the press of a button. There is no need to insert a key into the ignition. Unfortunately, if you lose this key, you are looking at spending $200 to $400 to replace it.
Artie’s Lock and Key can cut and program all types of car keys in Fairfax, VA. We can also rescue you if you lock yourself out of your car. Call us today for solutions beyond traditional lock and key services.
A key is a precious item. It gives the holder access to your home, vehicle or commercial property. That is why many people assume they should have as few copies of a key as possible. While this is true, having a spare key in Fairfax, VA is an absolute necessity for a number of reasons.
The many ways a spare copy of your key is a lifesaver
Having a few spare keys in Fairfax, VA will make your life so much easier, especially when you are in a pinch. If it sounds risky, you’ll want to read on to discover the many benefits of key copies:
- Locked out: It’s happened to all of us. We think we’ve grabbed our keys, but they wind up lost or misplaced. Key duplication in Fairfax, VA is a cheap, effective way to ensure you can always get into your house or vehicle, whether your original key is at the office, on your kitchen counter or simply lost to the ages.
- Everyday use: You should actually be using a copy of your key instead of the original. The original key should be stored somewhere safe in case of emergency. Keys break with enough time and usage. It’s better to make a spare key in Fairfax, VA with the original version instead of a copy.
- Diagnose lock issues: If you’ve noticed that your lock and key aren’t operating as well as they did in the past, it’s time to test out the mechanism. If the original key works without issue in the lock, but the spare doesn’t, you need to get a new spare. If no version of the key, original or otherwise, operates correctly, you will want to contact a locksmith about replacing the lock itself.
- Save yourself the stress: If you’ve lost or broken the original and only key to your apartment, home, car or business, it can take multiple days to get a replacement. That could equate to you having no access to this space until a landlord or dealership has the time to get you a new key. Instead of waiting around helplessly, just have a few spare keys in Fairfax, VA available so you can go about your life.
- Access to trusted individuals: There are so many occasions when a friend or family member needs access to your home, vehicle or business. You trust these individuals, so it’s safe to give them a spare copy of your keys just in case. Maybe there will come a time when that spare key that they’ve held onto for years comes in handy.
If you’re convinced that having a few copies of your keys is a good thing (and trust us, it really is), give Artie’s Lock and Key a call about key duplication in Fairfax, VA. As a full-service, locally-owned and family-operated business offering the full range of locksmith services, we are fully licensed, bonded and insured. Additionally, we have the ability to duplicate almost any key, including transponder chip keys and proximity keys for push-start vehicles. Get in touch with us today to learn more!
Sometimes we lose our keys. Other times, we move into new homes with different locks. In cases like these and many other instances, you’ll hear conflicting advice. One person will tell you to rekey the locks and another will recommend completely replacing them. As a locksmith with over 45 years of experience in this field, let us explain when you should rekey or change locks in Fairfax, VA.
Key control
The main reason people look into replacing or rekeying locks in Fairfax, VA is because they are concerned about key control. This is the phrase used to describe the process of accounting for every key that can access your home, vehicle or business.
If you bought a home, the previous owners might have given out spares to any number of people who never returned their copied keys. If you are moving into a brand-new house in a single-builder community, there are likely a few construction master keys that can still open your doors. Due to the way these locks are built to allow for master keys, a construction company or contractor might have up to 16 different keys that could provide access to your home or building.
What’s the difference?
Changing the locks and rekeying are two very different tasks. When you change the locks, you are actually swapping out the hardware in the door. Both the keys and lock are new.
However, with rekeying service in Fairfax, VA, you only end up with new keys. It’s the same hardware that’s been there all along. A locksmith replaces the pins and springs in the locking mechanism so your old keys will no longer work.
Should I rekey or swap out the locks?
If your main concern is key control, you only need to rekey your locks in Fairfax, VA. To have your residential or commercial property rekeyed costs way less than replacing all of the locks. It also takes a lot less time to rekey your locks instead of modifying them entirely.
You should change the locks in Fairfax, VA when the hardware is no longer functioning properly. Just like anything else, locks experience normal wear and tear over the years. If your lock jams or turning the key isn’t accomplished in a smooth motion, the time has come to change them out.
A lot of residential and commercial property owners decide to get new locks for their doors to coordinate the overall color or style with the rest of the structure. With newer locks featuring smart technology available, others decide to upgrade their locks for better security.
Should I call a locksmith?
A lot of our clients come to us for lock replacement or rekeying service in Fairfax, VA after they’ve tried to handle the job on their own. Locks are deceptively harder to swap out than they might appear. Rekeying kits that you can purchase online or at a hardware store are notoriously faulty and unreliable.
If you need your home, vehicle or commercial building rekeyed or want all of the locks replaced, get in touch with the experts at Artie’s Lock and Key. Since 1975, the local community has called us for everything related to automotive, commercial and residential locks and keys. Contact us now to schedule service.
