What level of security is right for your business? Does it vary by industry? Which security solutions are needed and which are optional? We cover all of these questions in this blog post.

     1. Industry

Certain industries require more security solutions than others. For example, if your business is primarily a digital one or focused on e-commerce, you might need more cybersecurity protections than a storefront with mainly in-person shopping. Likewise, an IT company might not need as many cameras or smart locks as a retail location. Take a look at other companies in your industry and see what solutions they’re using. Then, consult with a professional locksmith to see which commercial security options are right for you.

     2. Budget

Your finances may also dictate your commercial security decisions. The good news is that there are different levels of security with everything from surveillance systems to door locks. You can add more features and conveniences with a higher budget, but even low-cost security solutions can be a big benefit to your business. Review your budget and allocate accordingly.

     3. Need

Certain companies or businesses might also have different needs, depending on the part of the country they’re located in and/or a history of security issues. Dallas-Fort Worth has a variety of suburbs with different crime levels and, as a business owner, you likely already know the amount of protection that would be ideal. Or, you might have a history of untrustworthy employees and need to invest in a master key system. Take a step back and consider what you really need when it comes to commercial security and then take a closer look at your best options for protecting your business.

     4. Company

Finally, the locksmith or security company you choose to partner with for your commercial security can have a big impact on your ability to successfully deter crime. Security and locksmith companies can vary drastically when it comes to expertise, customer service and product or service offerings. A-1 Locksmith has been serving DFW since 1949 and is proud to be a reliable, trustworthy and fair locksmith company. We would be happy to work with you to help you figure out the right security options for your commercial business.

If you’re interested in additional commercial security advice, stop by any of our DFW-area A-1 Locksmith locations today.

Whether you have valuables in your business, new employees or you simply want a little more peace of mind in your life, here are some security solutions to help you better monitor your business in Dallas.

Access Control / Digital Locks

Whether you need to monitor or control access to something as small as a supply closet or as large as an entire office complex, an access control system has you covered. With an access control system and digital locks, you can control when locks give access to employees and control which employees have access to them. You can customize your system based on your needs and your budget. At the end of the day, access control systems and digital locks give you more control over your business, even when you aren’t there yourself.

Intercom Systems

Wireless intercom systems these days give you visual or audible insight into what is going on at your business’ access points. Whether it’s the front entryway, side doors or the back office, installing intercom systems lets you control (and be aware of) who is going in and out of your doors… all while letting you keep the focus on the variety of important daily activities you have as the business owner or manager. There are several feature and upgrade options for intercom systems as well, so the functionality likely stretches well beyond what you picture when you hear “intercom.”

Security Cameras and Surveillance Systems

Finally, security cameras and surveillance systems are the most obvious solution for monitoring your Dallas business, but almost every business deploys some level of security cameras and surveillance simply because they’re dependable. Thanks to today’s technology, you can enjoy advanced features like biometric systems and locks, full proxy card access, motion tracking, night vision, high definition, recording and more. Of course, cameras and surveillance systems have enjoyed many technological advancements so, at least for base models, these are more affordable than ever, so any business owner in Dallas can afford better monitoring.

If you’re interested in improving the security of your Dallas business, call A-1 Locksmith at 972-284-7500 for a consultation today.

In fact, there are some commercial security improvements you might not have thought about that can give you peace of mind and add convenience (such as installing a master key system). Let’s take a look at five of them.

1. Digital Locks

Everything is going digital these days, even locks. With digital locks and access control systems, you can control access to everything from a supply closet to an entire office complex. They don’t have to be expensive, either. Digital access locks and access control systems can be customized to fit your needs and give you an extra boost of security.

2. Master Key Systems

Gain more control of your entry points with a master key system. This type of commercial security improvement lets you as the owner (or a trusted delegate) control access to all locks while giving certain employees access to only certain areas. You can even control access during certain times of the day. Whether you have an existing system you’d like to upgrade or you are interested in a new master key system, a commercial locksmith can help.

3. Voice Intercoms

Words are powerful. They can even open doors these days, thanks to voice intercom systems. If you work in an industry or location where it’s not always safe opening a door to a stranger, a voice intercom system can restrict access to your entry points until you get a verbal confirmation that you want to remotely open the door. 

4. Video Entries

If you prefer to see the person at your door, there are video intercom systems as well. These types of systems offer a variety of benefits, from letting you visually monitor your entryways and control doors to letting you communicate with any visitors. Professional video intercom systems are also more robust and feature-packed than traditional video doorbells or other solutions.

5. High-Security Locks

Finally, you may not have thought about the simple fact that you may need to upgrade your locks. With a high-security lock, you don’t have to worry as much about someone picking it, bumping it or drilling it. These types of locks are also impossible to duplicate by anyone other than the professional locksmith that designed them. 

If you’re looking to improve the commercial security of your business, give the A-1 Locksmith team a call today at (972) 284-7500 for a consultation.

If you own a business, however, it can be extremely beneficial to learn more terms related to commercial lock repair. What is a lock cylinder, for example? What are bump-proof locks all about? What does it really mean to “rekey” a building? Here are five common commercial lock repair terms that you might not know, along with their definitions.

1. Lock Cylinder

This is a pretty basic term that describes the entry point for the key in any lock — well, any lock that takes keys, of course. Lock cylinders have pins, which, when aligned by inserting the key, work to secure the lock and open it. The lock cylinder is housed in something called “lock housing.” But, basically, the lock cylinder is the main component of any key lock.

2. Rekeying

You might already know that rekeying involves making new keys for a lock. More specifically, rekeying is the process of making the lock cylinder (as mentioned above) work with a new key. How does this work, exactly? It’s all about the pins. A commercial rekeying locksmith will replace old pins with new pins that featuring a different length and go with different keys. The old key will no longer work with a rekeyed lock because the pins have been changed.

3. Bump-Proof Locks

We’ve written on the topic of “bump-proof locks” before, but in case you didn’t know, “bumping” is a technique that thieves use to bypass a lock without the need for advanced tools. It’s becoming more and more popular, which is why experts in the locksmithing industry developed bump-proof locks to combat it. These locks feature a high-security design that cannot be picked or bumped open.

4. Keyway

The “keyway” is basically how your key is cut — specifically, how the shaft of the key is cut. The keyway determines whether or not a key is compatible with a lock. Keyways can vary from manufacturer to manufacturer and from lock to lock. There are interchangeable keyways and those that are not. It’s best to consult with a commercial locksmith if you’re having trouble with finding out which keys are compatible with which locks at your facility.

5. DND

Here’s an easy one: DND means “do not duplicate.” If this is on a key, it means the owner did not want someone to make another copy of the key. Although, this is mostly a warning for locksmiths and doesn’t guarantee the key won’t be duplicated. You can, however, design certain keys with today’s technology so that it’s not possible to duplicate them.

If you’re in need of commercial lock services, give the A-1 Locksmith team a call today at 972-284-7500.

Today, we’re going to cover the latter scenario. By having a commercial rekeying company install “bump-proof” locks, you can avoid becoming the latest victim of this technique.

What Is ‘Bumping?’

First, a little more about what “bumping” is exactly and how burglars use it. They say that bumping is so easy, a child could do it — about 9 out of every 10 locks in American houses are susceptible to it. But it wasn’t always that way. Bumping originated as a technique that allowed locksmiths to access locks when they didn’t have a key. It involves taking a specially cut “bump key,” inserting it into the keyhole and using a screwdriver or other similar object to “bump” or tap the key until the pins align and the lock opens. There’s a little technique involved, but thanks to the Internet, more and more thieves are learning about it and using it.

What Are ‘Bump-Proof’ Locks?

Fortunately, just as bumping has increased, so has the rise of “bump-proof” locks. These types of locks prevent the bumping process by adding a secondary locking system on the side of the key that prevents access from a single “bump key.” To get specific, while bumping aligns the pins in a keyhole by the key user jumping the shear line and using a little torque, bump-proof locks involves lifting and rotating additional pins that a bump key can’t open. Put simply, these locks go a long way toward increasing the safety of your home.

Installing ‘Bump-Proof’ Locks

As with many household projects, you can try to find a YouTube video and install bump-proof locks yourself. Or, you could trust a local locksmithing company to do it right the first time. We’re talking about your home’s security, however. Do you really want to trust the safety of your family and belongings to a DIY project? Professional locksmiths like the team at A-1 Locksmith have years of experience changing out locks, safes, security systems and more. Furthermore, they’re licensed to operate as professional locksmiths and take customer satisfaction very seriously.

We’re here to help you better understand bumping and your options for avoiding it. Call us today at 972-284-7500 to discuss installing high-security locks in your home.

With all that being said, as an owner or operator of a business you are also probably short on the time necessary to install, manage and maintain these much-needed systems on your own.  This is where the services of a quality locksmith, such as those available at A-1 Locksmith, can be beneficial whether in implementation or upkeep.  Here we break down some of the most common commercial security hardware solutions and how they can help secure your business interests.

The Critical Nature of Doors

Doors may be an afterthought to some business owners/managers, but whether catering to customers or allowing employees on site, doors are critical to a business’s day-to-day operations.  These entryways are also one of the biggest areas of vulnerability to commercial ventures.  Multiple users of doors and facilities necessitate the need for handing out keys, keycode and fobs, presenting a host of security risks with employee turnover.  Interchangeable core door locks are a commercial business owner’s dream solution to security, providing new, secure access with only a few minutes of installation into existing door hardware.

For external rear doors, all businesses can benefit from reliable, tried-and-true door hardware such as push bars for ease of exit.  With the ability to open with little effort, however, comes to necessity of security to ensure this easy access point for would-de intruders is shut.  This is where secure top-jamb closers that safely and reliably force open doors shut, come in handy.

Monitoring, Remote Access and More

Depending on the size and scope of your enterprise, your commercial business may also benefit from other advanced security systems and protocols.  Remote access gives business and property owners the benefit to arm, disarm or confirm the status of electronic security systems, all from the comforts of home or while on the go.  Other monitoring systems such as exterior or interior camera or monitoring can allow peace of mind that your property is protected and can also provide valuable back-up for employees in need of safety, security and accountability.

Speaking of technology, commercial safety has come a long way from your standard lock-and-key set.  Digital access codes with electronic locking mechanisms are a great way to monitor individual comings and goings and can also allow owners to quickly activate or deactivate individual codes, ensuring secure access to buildings and premises.  Asset tracking, biometric security systems, fire detection, intrusion monitoring and protection and more are all available in more advanced, easy to access systems than ever before, meaning that business owners can rest assured their physical inventory, property and employees are safe at all times.

Consult with a Qualified Locksmith

If your commercial property or business is in need of these services or if you’d like a no-cost consultation regarding the available options for your individual property needs, call A-1 Locksmith today.  Our experienced and professionally licensed locksmiths are experts in tailoring security solutions for a variety of clients.  With A-1 Locksmith, you’ll know that your business assets are always secure, allowing you to focus on the things that really matter such as growing your business enterprise.

Deterrence is More Than a Sign

It’s said that the best security system is the one you end up never needing.  It only makes sense then that a crucial component of an effective security or monitoring plan involves a highly visible component capable of dissuading any would be thief.  Companies will often opt for security so discreet, you, or a would-be thief, wouldn’t even know it’s there.  Alarm monitoring signs are only the tip of the iceberg.  Consider making cameras visible and numerous throughout your business.

Who’s Watching When

Speaking of camera systems and prevention, the best security is only as good as the person monitoring the process.  While video recording will be great for identifying issues after the fact, live feeds to an internal security room or, better yet, an outsourced off-site security hub are crucial for real time loss prevention. Coupled with motion detection, this can be key.

An Ounce of Prevention

If you’re sensing a theme in our overlooked security areas, well, you’d be spot on!  Most companies overlook the fact that the real value of a security system comes from its ability to prevent loss.  A general overview of your current security measures and whether they’re designed with prevention via monitoring and deterrence is critical for real results.  Make sure that your security partner provides a big picture overview and has likeminded staff interested in protecting your business and bottom line.

Who has the Keys to the Castle

While all of the above is fine and dandy, the best security system in the world won’t amount to a hill of beans if your company is continuously handing out physical copies of keys and security passcodes to all of your employees.  Personnel turnover and lost or misplaced keys are just a few of the typical problems businesses can encounter.  Consider limiting the number of master keys to your business, those that can unlock all doors and spaces, and frequently change passwords when it comes to security system best practices. In short, be mindful of your access control.

Protect Your Biggest Asset

While your company may have expensive merchandise, valuable technology components and other tangible goods on site, every good business owner knows that their biggest asset is their