Frequently asked questions

RemoteLock is a software provider based in Denver, CO. The company provides cloud-based, access control software that empowers those in multi-family, vacation rental, commercial, and related industries to remotely manage and control access to any space from anywhere in the world.

Access control is the ability to control and manage entries to properties via doors and smart locks. To gain the most efficiency and function, smart locks can be paired with a software (called “access control software”) that is specifically designed to allow users to create and revoke access privileges for anyone entering their properties remotely from a dashboard on a smartphone or laptop.

Access control software like that from RemoteLock is cloud-based, meaning it uses the internet (or “the cloud”) to transmit data. By logging into your RemoteLock account, you can execute many of the software’s functions–create or revoke access permissions, add or delete users, check power levels on smart locks–right from your laptop or smartphone, from wherever there’s internet access.

A smart lock is an electromechanical lock that allows you to open your door without a physical key. (Some people refer to this as “keyless entry.”) A smart lock connects to the internet via a wireless protocol like Wi-Fi or Z-Wave and receives instructions to lock or unlock from an authorized device. Because of its “connected” nature, a smart lock can be controlled remotely via software on a smartphone or laptop.

Like traditional, mechanical locks, smart locks are comprised of two main parts: the lock and key. This key is not a traditional key, but rather a PIN code, key card or fob, or even a smartphone itself (see “What is an access credential?”) that is specifically configured to wirelessly perform the authentication needed to automatically unlock a door.

Yes. Most smart locks today still lock and unlock without internet connection. They rely on “edge” computing. The edge of a network is where the smart lock actually sits. So, rather than sending a request for access to the cloud each time it’s engaged, a smart lock saves the latest list of valid credentials locally–right on the hardware chip. So, access is given immediately with no delay, even if the network becomes unstable or goes offline. While you won’t be able to grant or revoke access remotely or perform other functions that rely on connectivity like running access audits, you or your users can still lock and unlock the door.  

Before smart locks came on the market, there were algorithmic PIN locks, another option for network-free access control. Here’s how these locks work: A user creates an access schedule on a software platform like RemoteLock. Then, the software creates a PIN code specific to the lock and the desired schedule. When the PIN is entered into the lock, the lock verifies the code via its built-in algorithm to allow access. Because the PIN code itself is encrypted with all the access permissions needed, these locks never need to connect via the cloud to validate the access credential. Locks like ReadyPIN-enabled smart locks are ideal for locations with no or limited access to reliable Wi-Fi.

Many smart locks come with physical keys as a secondary access method, which may be useful if the batteries are depleted.

This door system is hardwired into your property’s power supply by a professional installer, and requires its own panel and wiring to operate. A wired access control system is a very secure and reliable solution for heavy-traffic doors that would quickly wear out batteries. NOTE: With a solution like RemoteLock, you can manage any door–those with smart locks and wired access systems, too–from a single platform.

RemoteLock is designed around universal access control (see “What is universal access control?), giving customers the flexibility to use different smart locks, as well as wired access control systems, on one easy-to-use dashboard. Our software is also infinitely scalable, allowing customers to expand the system from 10 doors to thousands.

Sometimes referred to as “keyless entry,” an access credential is a virtual key. There are several types of access credentials, including PIN codes, RFID cards and key fobs, or smartphone access. If you’re considering a keyless entry system, you’ll likely use smart locks, software to control those locks, and one or a combination of these access credentials. Your choice of credentials depends primarily on the user experience you desire, but there are other factors (like brand of hardware) that may narrow your choice of credential.

A self-expiring access code refers to a PIN code that is generated for a smart lock. In order to control who has access to specific spaces and when, access control software allows you to set exact times for when the PIN is valid. For example, you might generate a PIN code for a plumber to work at your property, but specify the time it’s valid from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m., when the PIN automatically expires and won’t unlock the lock.