Remote keys: definition, function & benefits

Radio keys are commonplace in vehicles. However, there are also keys in the field of building security that can be used to open doors at the touch of a button. This article shows how such a remote key works, what should be considered when using it, and what advantages it offers.

What is a remote key, and how does it work?

Simply put, a remote key is a key that does not need to be inserted into a lock to open a door. Rather, it exchanges digital radio signals with the lock and can unlock it, for example, at the touch of a button.

Although this is referred to as a key, remote keys often do not look like it at first glance. However, the function is the same. The same applies to key cards or RFID chips – these do not typically look like a key, but are used as such.

In order for you to be able to open a lock with a remote key, the appropriate digital code must be transmitted between the sender – i.e. the locking medium – and the receiver – the lock. In this way, the door is unlocked and can be opened.

The smart remote keys remember which door they belong to, so to speak. Users can also configure them to open not just one lock, but several locks.

A distinction is made between two basic technologies for remote keys:

• Active technology
• Passive technology

An example of remote keys based on active technology are transponders. Here, a button is actively pressed to unlock a door. Entering a PIN code via a special panel on the door lock is also part of the active technology.

With passive technology, on the other hand, the user does not have to do anything but hold the remote key to the lock. Key cards or Smart Tags, among other things, work in this way.

This shows that remote keys are diverse and do not always look the same.

Maximum security thanks to the remote key

The use of a remote key and the associated lock is very convenient. But this is not the only reason why many individuals and companies opt for this option. The remote key also knows how to convince in terms of security.

Especially in buildings where many people go in and out, the loss of keys is an important issue. If a conventional key is lost, this usually entails a complex and costly replacement of the entire system. This also increases the inhibition threshold to report a loss of keys at all – for example, as an employee who does not want to make a bad impression. The security risk is increased.

With remote keys, this is no longer a big issue. Since the keys are configured in software, it is easily possible to have them blocked from one moment to the next. Keys can be locked anytime and anywhere without the need to replace the system. Since it is so easy and incurs hardly any costs, users are also more inclined to report a key loss immediately, which minimizes further risks.

But what if a critical event actually occurs? Then the software of the digital locking system can be used to easily read out which remote key users last used to gain access. In addition, the log can be analyzed to detect vulnerabilities in the system.

And what about cyberattacks, which are becoming more and more common in the modern age? Thanks to high-quality encryption and careful security precautions, even digital locks can hardly be cracked. To do this, you should contact manufacturers such as BlueID, who value maximum security.

Other advantages of remote keys

In addition to the outstanding security of remote keys, the convenience is also worth mentioning. Unlocking doors is quick and easy. In addition, the access authorizations for different areas can be stored on one key. This means that you no longer have to walk around with a heavy bunch of keys, but have all permissions compactly on a small medium. And if permissions should ever change, they can be easily adjusted in the software.

The remote key no longer works? This can usually be solved quickly. It is usually due to the configuration in the software of the locking system.

Another advantage is that remote keys can come in a variety of forms. There are different access media, so users can choose the type of key that suits them best.

The flexibility of remote keys knows no bounds. They are often combined with other functions. In this way, they can be connected to the working time recording system in a company. Or you can use remote keys to start plants or machines.

What remote keys are there?

There are different types of remote keys. This means that there is an option for every requirement. The following variants are particularly popular:

• Transponder
• Smart card
• Smartphone
• PIN
• Fingerprint

Transponder

To open a lock with a transponder, a button must be pressed. This makes the process part of active technology. As a rule, transponders are robust and compactly installed and can be stored on a key ring or simply in a pocket.

Key card

Key cards – also known as Smart Cards – are a special type of chip card. These cards are particularly popular with hotels. Belonging to passive technology, these remote keys are simply held against the appropriate lock.

In addition to Smart Cards, there are also so-called Smart Tags. They are small, round plastic plates that perform the same function.

Smartphone

Your own smartphone can also be used as a remote key. Since you carry it with you all the time, this is a very practical option. The use of the smartphone proves to be very useful, especially for small locking systems. With some systems, access authorizations can also be easily transmitted by e-mail.

PIN

In the case of locking systems that are opened by means of a PIN code, there is an input field on the locked doors. If the correct code is entered, the lock can be unlocked. Like the transponder, this procedure is part of the active technology – users have to become active themselves in order to gain access.

Fingerprint

The fingerprint is also part of the remote keys. Everyone has a unique fingerprint – which is why this variant is considered particularly secure. Incidentally, this applies to all biometric methods –including facial recognition.

Result

Remote keys are convenient, offer a high degree of, security and impress with flexibility. In order to find the right system, it is important to consider the individual requirements and requirements when buying. At BlueID, you can get tailor-made locking systems that can be operated with remote keys of your choice.

‍