Figure 12: Digital Lock
Electronic or digital locks are electronic or battery-powered locks that do not require the use of physical keys to gain entry [9]. They are employed as an alternative to traditional mechanical locks, with the automated features providing a more creative security solution based on its intended usage (figure 12) [9]. To prohibit access, digital locks, like any other door lock, require a latch or a bolt that can run across the door and the doorframe. What distinguishes them is how the latch or bolt is operated. RFIDs, pin codes, fingerprints, cellphones, and other devices are used to operate digital locks [9]. Digital locks are most typically used on automobiles and doors, but they may also be used on lockers, furniture, and closets. The reviews for these locks for vehicles and doors are mixed, but for businesses that employ lockers and cabinets, the benefits of digital locks outweigh the benefits of traditional key locks [9]. The advantages of a digital lock is that you won't have to wprry about loosing a key, all you will need to remember is the code [9]. However, a disadvantage of digital locks is that they can lag and remain locked even if the correct pin is entered [9]. If this lasts a few days, the whole system would need to be replaced which would cost a lot of money [9].
Figure 13: Card Locks
There are 2 types of card locks that were created, magnetic card locks and smart locks [10]. Magnetic card locks, which are commonly used in hotels, include a slot into which you may put your key card [10]. When the card's magnet makes contact with the magnet within the lock, the door is unlocked (figure 13). A computer is in charge of smart card locks [10]. They have a scanner that can validate the microchip in your card when you place it in front of the lock. The chip, which functions similarly to a barcode, unlocks the door to whoever has access to it [10]. Cards are less bulky and lighter than a set of keys, and they allow for quicker access to many places [10]. The fact that there is no code to remember is a huge plus. Smart card locks are also more secure since they do not need to be changed when a user loses his or her card [10]. Access rights connected with a lost card can be easily deleted. Furthermore, each card stores access logs, which aids investigations in the event of a break-in [10]. An advantage of card locks is that not only will you not need to remember a pin, but if you lose the card, only the card will have to be replaced and not the whole locking system. Replacing a card does not cost a lot of money and it would take less than 10 minutes to replace [10]. On the other hand, a disadvantage of card locks is that they can also lag but this rarley occurs.
Lock-picking