Digital door locks and smart locks have become indispensable in modern homes and digital businesses. They make everyday life safer, more flexible, and more comfortable. But what exactly do terms like "electronic door lock" or "keyless entry" mean?
This guide answers all important questions and helps you find the right solution for your home, business, or vacation rental.
What is a digital door lock?
A digital door lock, also known as a smart lock, is an electronic system that allows door access without a traditional key. Instead, you use:
- Smartphone apps
- Fingerprint sensors
- PIN codes
- RFID chips or transponders
- Voice assistants like Alexa or Google Assistant
Digital locks give you more control over your access, offer real-time logging features, and make access management significantly easier than with traditional keys.
How does a smart lock work?
Smart locks either replace the existing lock cylinder or are mounted directly over the existing lock. At ELCON, both options are available:
- Cylinder replacement: The EL2 and the EL20 directly replace the existing lock cylinder.
- Surface mounting: The EL50 is mounted over the existing lock; no replacement is needed.
In both cases, control is via the ELCON App, PIN entry, or directly via Bluetooth. Through the app, you grant usage rights, view events, and open or close your door remotely. ELCON's remote function works via the ELCON Bridge, without expensive third-party hardware.
What types of smart locks are there?
Smart Digital Cylinder
Replaces the existing cylinder in your door. Fits most standard doors without drilling or wiring. Ideal if you want to keep the existing door panel.
ELCON models: EL2 and EL20. To the overview of all smart digital cylinders.
Motorized Smart Lock
Mounted over the existing lock and controls it electronically. No intervention in the door mechanism is necessary, quick installation.
ELCON model: EL50. To the overview of all Smart Locks.
Electronic Door Handle and Door Fitting
Complete solution that combines handle and locking function in one device. Ideal for a complete replacement of the door fitting.
ELCON models: smartHANDLE and EL31.
While many manufacturers specialize in one product category, ELCON covers all three areas and offers individual solutions for different requirements.
The Advantages of Smart Locks
More Comfort in Everyday Life
Never search for or duplicate keys again. Access can be granted or revoked via app in seconds.
Family members, friends, or service providers can be easily invited without you having to be on-site. PINs or temporary codes can be changed at any time. No stress with lost keys, no waiting for the handyman.
At ELCON, user roles can be flexibly managed in the app, without each user having to create their own account.
Higher Security
- Temporary access for guests or cleaning staff, which automatically deactivates
- Real-time event logs
- Encryption according to AES-256 standard
You control exactly who gets access and when. Some providers store data on US servers or in third countries. ELCON stores data exclusively GDPR-compliant in Europe.
Flexibility and Remote Access
Whether you're traveling, at the office, or simply don't want to go to the door: via app, you have access at any time. Add new users, change existing rights, open the door remotely – everything is done with a few clicks. No key handovers, no waiting times.
Suitable for Every Life Situation
Smart Locks adapt to different requirements:
- Private households benefit from easy access control for the whole family and less key chaos. Learn more
- Vacation rentals and hotels digitize their check-in process and offer guests a modern, contactless experience. Learn more
- Businesses use role rights, logs, and time windows for efficient access management. Learn more
Installation & Commissioning
Most smart locks can be installed without drilling or wiring. A step-by-step guide leads you through the process, and the app then handles the setup.
ELCON also offers professional installation for all products, should you want to be on the safe side.
Integration into Smart Home Systems
Smart locks can be connected to Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa, and common smart home platforms. ELCON offers a direct and stable connection without additional third-party hardware.
This allows you to open doors by voice command or automate access processes in conjunction with lighting, alarm systems, or cameras.
Which Smart Lock is Right for You?
That depends primarily on your door and your requirements. Three questions help with the decision:
- Door and Cylinder: What are the dimensions of your current lock cylinder? Is a surface-mounted model suitable, or do you need a cylinder replacement?
- Access Method: Do you want to open via app, PIN, transponder, or multiple methods simultaneously?
- Remote Access: Do you need remote control, or is Bluetooth sufficient for close range?
Not sure? The ELCON Compatibility Check guides you to the right solution in a few steps.
Conclusion
Digital door locks are no longer a niche technology in 2026, but a mature, everyday solution for private households, vacation rentals, and businesses. More comfort, more control, more security, without key chaos and expensive locksmith services.
ELCON stands out with Austrian development and manufacturing, GDPR-compliant data storage in the EU, no subscription fees, and reliable offline operation via Bluetooth.
Discover all Smart Locks or go directly to the Compatibility Check.
