Smart locks are finally integrating the more secure, reliable Matter/Thread standard for smart home gadgets. The convenience of smart locks is unprecedented, but are the security risks still too high?

The new Ultraloq Bolt Fingerprint smart lock from U-tec uses the new interoperable smart home standard Matter and connects to your smart home via the low-powered Threads mesh network instead of Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. In addition to unlocking from your phone, you can also open it with a keypad, your fingerprint, or even a key. That all sounds great, but are smart locks really such a great idea?

“The biggest benefit of smart locks is the convenience of keyless entry and the ability to control access remotely from a phone or other smart device. This is especially useful for managing access for visitors, the HVAC technician, or the pest control company when they’re away. The downside, however, is that they’re dependent on technology; issues like dead batteries, network outages, or software glitches can present challenges,” Tony Pennix, CEO of smart home installation company Techdhome, told Lifewire via email.

The appeal of a smart lock is obvious. You don’t have to fiddle with keys. You can simply leave your door open when you get home and lock it when you leave. You can check from a distance that your door is actually locked. You can also do things that regular key locks can’t do, like grant access to repairmen or only give your cleaner access on the morning or afternoon they come by, instead of giving them a key that has 24/7 access.