ELI5: What are Locks?
Locks on doors and cabinets are the most basic way to keep people out. Some use metal keys, some use number codes, and some even scan your fingerprint — but they all do the same job: keep the wrong people on the other side.
Definition
Locks are fundamental physical access control devices that restrict entry to secured areas. Security+ recognizes three primary lock categories: mechanical (traditional key-based), electronic (keypad/combination or smart locks), and biometric (fingerprint, retina). The choice of lock type depends on the security level required, audit trail needs, and operational requirements such as managing access for many users.
Key Details
- Mechanical locks: Traditional key-based; inexpensive; limited audit capability; keys can be copied; difficult to revoke access without rekeying.
- Electronic locks: Keypad codes or proximity cards; easier to revoke access (change code or deactivate card); can provide audit logs of entry times.
- Biometric locks: Fingerprint, retina, or facial recognition; strong authentication; can log individual access; expensive; subject to FAR/FRR considerations.
- Combination locks: No key required but combination sharing is a risk.
- High-security locks include features like anti-pick pins, anti-drill plates, and hardened steel cores.
Connections
- Parent: physical-security — a fundamental physical access control mechanism
- See also: access-control-vestibules-mantraps, access-badges