Smart Lock & IoT Security Flashcards

Before installing a smart deadbolt, a CPL measures the door's backset. Which standard backset measurements are most common in the US residential market?

Answer: 2-3/8 inch and 2-3/4 inch

The two standard backset measurements for US residential doors are 2-3/8 inches and 2-3/4 inches, and most smart deadbolts include hardware to accommodate both.

A smart lock app requires the locksmith to 'pair' the lock during installation. What is the purpose of this pairing process?

Answer: To establish a trusted, encrypted communication channel between the lock and the authorized device

Pairing creates a secure, authenticated link between the smart lock and the controlling device so that only authorized devices can communicate with the lock.

During installation of a Bluetooth smart lock, the customer asks why their phone must be within a certain range to operate the lock. What is the most accurate technical explanation?

Answer: Bluetooth Low Energy has a typical effective range of 30–100 feet under ideal conditions

Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) typically operates effectively within 30–100 feet under clear conditions, though walls and interference can reduce this range significantly.

A CPL is programming guest access codes on a smart lock for a vacation rental property. What is the most secure approach to managing these codes?

Answer: Create unique, time-limited access codes for each guest that expire at checkout

Unique, time-limited codes ensure that each guest's access automatically expires at checkout, eliminating the need to remember to delete old codes and preventing code sharing.

When installing a smart lock on a steel door, a locksmith notices the lock's Bluetooth signal strength is weaker than expected. What is the most likely cause?

Answer: Steel doors can attenuate (weaken) wireless signals due to metal interference

Metal, including steel door construction, can significantly attenuate or reflect wireless signals like Bluetooth and Z-Wave, reducing effective communication range.

After completing a smart lock installation, what should a CPL verify regarding the physical backup access method?

Answer: That the mechanical key override is functional and the customer has physical backup keys

A functional mechanical key override ensures the customer can always gain physical access if the electronics fail, batteries die, or connectivity is lost.

A client wants to integrate their new smart lock with their existing alarm system. Which integration method provides the tightest real-time coordination between lock events and the alarm panel?

Answer: Direct Z-Wave or Zigbee integration through a compatible smart home hub connected to the alarm panel

Direct protocol integration via Z-Wave or Zigbee through a compatible hub provides low-latency, local communication between the lock and the alarm panel without relying on cloud servers.