Security is important to all businesses – from large corporations to locally owned mom-and-pop stores. Business owners have many responsibilities, security being a major concern for all. Businesses throughout the country benefit greatly from key control, a popular method of maintaining more control over your commercial property. Key control is essentially a system of tracking which employees have keys and what areas they have access to with those keys.
What is Key Control and Why Should My Business Care?
March 6, 2023
Employees account for over 40% of occupational fraud and $3.7 trillion in lost revenue each year for all businesses, according to the 2014 Global Fraud Report. Much of this fraud and lost revenue occurs because keys are issued to employees and never returned when the employees leave the company.
A key control system is critical to not only the security of a facility, personnel and equipment, but can also save you money. Key control, which ensures that certain keys are only used by authorized people, involves strategies for keeping tabs on which keys are carried by employees. Key control also involves the implementation of strategies that prevent employees from giving away duplicate keys to unauthorized users.
If you don’t have a key control system in place already, consider one for your business to increase employee safety, decrease workplace crime, and give you peace of mind.
What Are The Types of Key Control Systems?
With key control, there are mechanical systems and electronic systems. The differences between the two are as follows:
- Mechanical systems are an effective form of key control that enhances your facility’s overall security when used correctly. Simply put, these systems consist of a key with a plastic peg attached. The pegs are unique to each employee, serving to prevent keys from being removed unless the employee has the peg with specific clearance to remove it. The keys are also locked in a numbered port, and can only be removed after an access peg has been inserted. Mechanical systems help track which employees have accessed the keys, as their individual peg cannot be removed until the borrowed key is returned.
- Electronic systems are a more advanced form of key control that involve the newer technology of microchips . Keys are assigned to unique chips that are then inserted into a reader. The reader records when an authorized employee takes a key, and when it was returned. This advanced kind of key control system also lets others know which employee has a key if they request it and creates an audit trail of every key used and who used them.
What Are the Five Security Levels of Key Control?
The five security levels to key control are:
Level 5 – Key control systems with Level 5 security rely mostly on the honor system. This system has the lowest level of security and consists of unrestricted keys that employees are simply told not to make copies of. Employees are also warned not to give their keys to others and are trusted to comply with these rules, but there is no way for employers to track compliance.
Level 4 – Systems with Level 4 security involve unrestricted keys, however they are marked “do not duplicate.” This disclaimer is only semi effective, as the keys technically could still be copied anywhere. However, the majority of reputable locksmiths and key professionals will not copy them. The Associated Locksmiths of America, a nationwide trade organization for locksmiths, calls the “Do Not Copy” disclaimer a misleading tactic because it provides a false sense of security.
Level 3 – Systems with Level 3 security involve the use of restricted keys. These keys provide higher security as they can only be obtained through a single supplier. Restricted keys cannot be found at retailers, as they have to be obtained through the original source. The supplier of the key has rules set forth to prevent unauthorized duplication, giving business owners a certainty that only the keys they hand out will be able to access the designated restricted area
Level 2 – Key control systems with Level 2 security contain an even more restrictive set of keys. These are keys are patented, giving an extra boost of security as they are protected by patent law. If an individual attempts to sell or duplicate this key without getting permission from the patent holder, they could face legal penalties.
Level 1 – Systems with Level 1 security provide the highest level of security possible with a key control system. This level of security involves factory-only patented keys used to restrict access to designated areas. These keys have no possible way to be cut locally. In order to make copies, users have to send an authorization request to the original factory to have keys cut. In Level 1 systems, strict records are kept of who has access to each key, and when each key was used.
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Smart locks promise convenience. Keyless entry. Remote access. Control from your phone. But when it comes to security, one question still confuses many homeowners: Can you rekey a smart lock the same way you would a traditional one? Or are you stuck replacing the entire system? The answer isn’t as simple as yes or no. Because not all locks—smart or traditional—work the same way. And understanding that difference can save you time, money, and unnecessary upgrades. Start With What Rekeying Actually Means Rekeying isn’t about changing the outside of a lock. It’s about altering what happens inside. In a traditional lock, rekeying changes the internal pins so old keys no longer work. The hardware stays the same, but access is completely reset. It’s one of the most efficient ways to regain control—especially after moving into a new home or losing a key. But this process depends on one thing: A physical key mechanism. And that’s where smart locks start to differ. Why Traditional Locks Are Easy to Rekey Standard deadbolts and cylinder locks are built for it. Their internal pin systems are designed to be adjusted, reconfigured, and reset without replacing the entire lock. A locksmith can quickly change the key combination while keeping the same exterior hardware intact. This is why rekeying has always been the go-to solution for restoring security without overspending. It’s simple. Direct. Reliable. And in most cases, it’s all you need. What Makes Smart Locks Different Smart locks aren’t just locks. They’re systems. Some rely entirely on digital access—keypads, apps, or biometrics. Others combine smart features with a traditional key cylinder. That distinction matters. Because you can’t “rekey” something that doesn’t use a physical key in the first place. Instead of pins and tumblers, fully digital locks rely on codes, permissions, and software-based control. So the way you reset access changes completely. Can Smart Locks Be Rekeyed? It Depends on the Type If your smart lock includes a physical key override, then yes—part of it can be rekeyed. The mechanical cylinder inside can be adjusted just like a traditional lock. A locksmith can change the key access without affecting the smart features. But if your smart lock is fully keyless, there’s nothing to rekey. In those cases, security is managed digitally. You simply delete old codes, reset access permissions, or perform a factory reset. No hardware changes required. Just a different kind of control. Why Digital Resetting Replaces Rekeying in Smart Systems With traditional locks, control comes from keys. With smart locks, control comes from access management. Instead of worrying about who has a physical copy, you manage: Who has a code When they can enter How long their access lasts If someone no longer needs entry, you don’t rekey. You remove them. That shift is what makes smart locks powerful—but also why people misunderstand how to secure them properly. When Rekeying Still Matters in a Smart Lock Setup Even if you use a smart lock, the physical key backup shouldn’t be ignored. That override exists for a reason. Power failures. Technical glitches. Dead batteries. In those moments, the mechanical key becomes your fallback. If that key has been copied, lost, or shared in the past, rekeying the cylinder is still essential. Because digital security means nothing if the physical backup is compromised. Should You Rekey or Replace a Smart Lock? Not every situation requires a full replacement. If your concern is access control, resetting codes or permissions is usually enough. If your concern is physical key security, rekeying the cylinder solves the problem. Replacement only becomes necessary when the lock is damaged, outdated, or no longer reliable. The mistake most people make is jumping straight to replacement—when a simple reset or rekey would have done the job. The Hidden Risk: Forgetting Old Access Points Whether it’s a traditional lock or a smart one, the real issue is often the same: Too many people have access. Old tenants. Previous owners. Contractors. Guests. With traditional locks, that risk lives in duplicated keys. With smart locks, it lives in forgotten codes and active permissions. If you don’t actively reset and review access, your lock—no matter how advanced—stops being secure. When to Call a Professional If you’re unsure whether your smart lock includes a rekeyable cylinder, or if it’s not functioning properly, it’s worth getting expert input. A locksmith can assess your setup, identify whether rekeying is possible, and ensure both your digital and physical security layers are aligned. Professionals like Brothers Locksmith often handle hybrid systems, where both smart features and traditional mechanisms need to work together seamlessly. Because real security isn’t about choosing one or the other. It’s about making sure every layer does its job. Final Thoughts Rekeying isn’t outdated. It’s just evolving. Traditional locks rely on it. Smart locks replace it with digital control. And hybrid systems use both. The key is understanding what kind of lock you actually have—and how it manages access. Because security isn’t about the label on your lock. It’s about who can still get in. And whether you’ve taken the time to change that.
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Most people invest in strong front door locks. Deadbolts. Reinforced frames. Maybe even smart locks. But then there’s the patio door. Quietly sitting at the back of the house, often overlooked, often under-protected—and for intruders, often the easiest way in. If you think your patio door is “good enough,” this article might change your mind. Because the reality is simple: patio door locks are one of the most common weak points in home security. Let’s break down why they’re such easy targets—and what you can do to fix it. How to Tell If Someone Tried to Pick Your Lock The Hidden Problem: Patio Doors Prioritize Convenience Over Security Patio doors are designed for ease, not defense. They’re meant to slide smoothly, open quickly, and connect indoor and outdoor spaces effortlessly. But that convenience comes at a cost. Unlike solid front doors, patio doors often rely on lightweight locking mechanisms that are not built to withstand force or manipulation. This creates an imbalance—easy for you to use, but also easy for someone else to exploit. Sliding Door Locks Are Structurally Weaker Most patio doors use simple latch-style locks rather than heavy-duty deadbolts. These latches are designed to hold the door closed, not to resist aggressive force. With enough pressure, they can bend, slip, or disengage. In some cases, intruders don’t even need to break the lock—they just force the door off alignment until it opens. Compared to standard door locks, these systems offer significantly less resistance. Doors Can Be Lifted Off Their Tracks This is one of the most overlooked vulnerabilities. Many sliding patio doors can be lifted upward within their frame. If there’s enough clearance, an intruder can raise the door and pull it out of the track entirely. No lock picking. No noise. No visible damage. Just a quiet removal of the door itself. Older or poorly installed patio doors are especially vulnerable to this method. Weak Materials Make Forced Entry Easier Patio doors are often made with large glass panels and lightweight frames. While modern designs may include tempered glass, the overall structure is still weaker than a solid wooden or metal door. This makes it easier to apply pressure, create gaps, or exploit flex points in the frame. Even if the glass isn’t broken, the frame itself can become the entry point. Poor Installation or Wear Over Time Even a decent patio lock can become a security risk if it’s not properly installed. Misalignment between the door and the locking mechanism can reduce how securely the latch engages. Over time, wear and tear can loosen components, making the lock easier to bypass. A door that doesn’t close tightly is not just an inconvenience—it’s an invitation. Easy Access Points at the Back of the Property Front doors are visible. Patio doors are usually not. They are often located at the back or side of the house, hidden from street view and neighbors. This gives intruders more time and privacy to attempt entry. Even a weak lock becomes a bigger risk when it’s not being watched. Basic Locks Are Easier to Manipulate Standard patio locks are not designed with advanced security features. Many lack anti-pick, anti-bump, or reinforced internal mechanisms. This makes them easier to manipulate compared to high-quality front door locks. While not all intruders rely on picking, a simpler lock reduces the effort needed to gain entry. Why Door Locks Get Noisy Over Time Tracks Can Be Tampered With Sliding doors rely on tracks to function. But those same tracks can be used against you. Intruders can insert tools into the track to manipulate the door or interfere with how it sits in the frame. In some cases, they can even force the door open by exploiting weaknesses in the track system. This is a unique vulnerability that traditional doors do not have. Why This Matters More Than You Think A weak patio lock doesn’t just affect one entry point. It compromises your entire home. Intruders look for the easiest path, not the most obvious one. If your front door is secure but your patio door is not, they will go around. Security is only as strong as its weakest link. And in many homes, that weakest link is the patio door. How to Make Your Patio Door More Secure The good news is that this problem is fixable. You don’t need to replace your entire door to improve security. But you do need to take it seriously. Add a Secondary Lock or Security Bar A simple but effective solution is adding a secondary locking mechanism. Security bars or rods placed in the track prevent the door from sliding open, even if the main lock is compromised. This adds an extra layer of resistance that intruders cannot bypass easily. Install Anti-Lift Devices To prevent doors from being lifted off their tracks, anti-lift devices can be installed. These limit how far the door can be raised, making removal impossible without dismantling the frame. This directly addresses one of the biggest vulnerabilities of sliding doors. Upgrade to a High-Security Lock Replacing a basic latch with a stronger, more secure locking system can make a significant difference. Look for locks designed specifically for patio doors with reinforced components and improved resistance. A stronger lock increases the effort required for entry, which often discourages intruders altogether. Reinforce the Glass Security film or laminated glass can make it harder to break or penetrate the glass panel. Even if someone attempts to smash it, the material holds together, slowing down entry. This buys time and increases the chances of detection. Fix Alignment and Maintenance Issues If your door does not close properly or feels loose, address it immediately. Adjusting the alignment, tightening components, and maintaining the track ensures the lock functions as intended. A well-maintained door is much harder to exploit. Improve Visibility and Lighting Since patio doors are often hidden, improving visibility can act as a strong deterrent. Motion lights, cameras, or even simple outdoor lighting can make intruders think twice. Security is not just about strength—it’s also about reducing opportunity. When to Call a Professional Locksmith If you’re unsure about the condition of your patio door lock, it’s worth getting it inspected. A professional locksmith can identify hidden vulnerabilities, recommend upgrades, and install security solutions correctly. Experts at Brothers Locksmith often deal with patio door security issues and can help turn a weak entry point into a strong one. Final Thoughts Patio doors are not inherently unsafe. But they are often under-protected. Their design, placement, and common locking systems make them attractive targets for intruders. The key is awareness. Once you understand the risks, you can take simple, effective steps to strengthen your security. Because intruders don’t look for the hardest door. They look for the easiest one. And with the right upgrades, your patio door doesn’t have to be it.