Do Smart Locks Need Wi-Fi?

With the smart home technology revolution changing the way we interact with our home environment, the era of manual locks is phasing out. Smart locks, which are keyless digital locks, are fast becoming popular in homes around the world and is now considered an integral part of smart home security systems. However, like other smart devices, do smart locks require Wi-Fi to work?

Only specific smart lock models require Wi-Fi to work. Most users prefer to connect their smart locks to Wi-Fi because it offers more features that go beyond simply locking and unlocking a door remotely, such as receiving instant notifications through a dedicated app. However, there are other connectivity options, such as Bluetooth and Z-Wave, available.

In the remainder of this article, we’ll discuss how smart locks use Wi-Fi connections to determine whether your chosen model requires it.

Do Smart Locks Need Wi-Fi?

Only certain smart locks require a Wi-Fi connection to function properly. Locks that don’t need a Wi-Fi connection typically connect via Bluetooth or Z-Wave.

While Wi-Fi-enabled smart locks are more susceptible to hacking, they offer more advanced smart features when compared to non-Wi-Fi enabled smart locks. The following are some features you may enjoy when you’re able to connect your smart lock to Wi-Fi:

• A Wi-Fi connection allows you to access your smart lock remotely. This makes it possible for you to lock and unlock your door from anywhere, be it from work or inside your home.
• A Wi-Fi connection allows you to monitor your door activities using your smart lock-dedicated app. You can receive security alerts and see what is happening at your front door every minute of every day.
• Wi-Fi-dependent locks are often compatible with other smart devices. With an internet connection, you can integrate your lock with Google Home and Alexa for greater accessibility.

Smart Locks with Wi-Fi Connectivity

Some highly-rated smart lock models that require a Wi-Fi connection to work include:

August Smart Lock Pro+ Connect

The August Smart Lock Pro+ Connect makes it possible for you to control your home door locking system easily. With its Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Z-wave capabilities, the August Lock allows you to lock and unlock your front door, receive security alerts, grant visitors access, and monitor your home front door activities remotely from your phone.

This smart lock can also be integrated with your existing home automation systems like Siri, Google Home, and Alexa for easy control. The August Smart Lock also features an auto-lock, which automatically activates within 20 seconds of being idle. More importantly, you can install it over your existing traditional single-cylinder deadbolt system.

Schlage Connect Camelot Touchscreen Deadbolt

Rated ANSI-1 for its excellent security capability, the Schlage Connect Lock is one of the best smart locks in the market. Currently available on Amazon for a little above $150, the Schlage Connect features a touchscreen fingerprint keypad that allows for easy access code input. This smart lock allows you to create up to 30 access codes for friends and family members.

The Schlage Connect Lock package also comes with a single master key that can be used in case of emergency or when your lock is out of battery, which can be rekeyed if you lose it.. You can easily monitor your front door activities via the Schlage mobile app for free. More importantly, it will notify you in the event of an attempted break-in, tampering, or wrong code input, blaring its alarm as a signal.

Bluetooth Smart Locks

Many Bluetooth smart locks do not require Wi-Fi to operate. In fact, these types of locks have their own set of advantages compared to those that need to be connected to the internet.

For one, many Bluetooth smart locks are battery-powered, meaning that even if your home’s power or Wi-Fi ever goes out, they can still function. In addition, Bluetooth smart locks are known to offer extra security, as the lock only opens for authorized people with the security token.

Smart Locks with Bluetooth Connectivity

A few popular Bluetooth smart lock brands and models include:

Ultraloq UL3 Bluetooth

The Ultraloq smart lock features a 5-in-1 keyless entry with an array of exciting features. This smart lock comes with a dedicated fingerprint, touch wakeup, and touch screen lock system that allow you to lock and unlock your door easily. It also features a single master key in case of emergencies (when batteries die after 8000 unlockings).

You can also set up to 5-8 digit codes with up to 100 million different password combinations. More importantly, you can view activity logs and easily connect the Ultraloq smart lock to your Bluetooth, allowing you to lock and unlock your front door via the Ultraloq mobile app.

Schlage Sense Smart Deadbolt

The Schlage Sense is not only affordable but easy to install and operate. It is compatible with both Android and Apple devices, which make it easy to connect your Schlage Sense lock to your phone via Bluetooth connection. With your smart lock linked to your mobile device, you can easily control your door through the Schlage Sense mobile app.

With the mobile app, you can easily add/remove access codes connected to your smart lock. You can also integrate the Schlage Sense smart lock with your existing smart home automation system like Alexa. While its Bluetooth connection limits its remote capability, you can purchase a Wi-Fi adapter from Schlage to access more advanced features.

Final Thoughts

While smart locks are more expensive than a traditional door lock system, it offers users ample home security benefits. From remote monitoring and accessibility to greater control on protection, buying a smart lock for your door is a wise decision, and whether you end up going with a Wi-Fi-based lock or not ultimately depends on your preferences.