Lock

Locks

A lock is a mechanical fastening device used to restrict access to an area or enclosure. A lock consists of a bolt and a cylinder. It is the duty of the lock to restrict the movement of the bolt until the cylinder has allowed the bolt to be retracted. Locks are traditionally opened by using a proper key or combination. Modern locks may incorporate various digital access control features, such as biometrics. There several major types of locks with many modern high security locks being hybrid designs.

History

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Lock Designs

Combination

A keyless lock that uses numbers, letters, or symbols for input. A specific combination of input properly aligns internal components so that the lock can be opened. Most commonly associated with safe locks. Combination locks range from low to high security.

Disc-detainer

Uses flat metal tumblers that interface with a sidebar to prevent rotation of the plug. Seperate from wafer designs because discs are usually rotated rather than lifted.

Electronic

A lock that is operated via electronic means. Electronic locks provide advanced auditing and key control capabilities, but generally are not any more secure than traditional locks.

Hybrid

Hybrid locks encompass combinations of all lock designs. Many modern high security locks are hybrid designs.

Lever

One of the oldest lock types, next to warded. Uses flat metal tumblers (levers) with a gate. The levers are actuated by the key, and once aligned properly allow the bolt to be actuated. Level locks range from low to high security.

Pin-tumbler

Originally invented by the Egyptians, modernized by Linus Yale. Currently the most popular lock design worldwide. Uses moving pins to prevent rotation of the plug. Pin-tumbler locks range from low to high security. dimple and axial/tubular locks are simply pin-tumblers with modified designs.

Wafer

Uses flat metal tumblers to prevent rotation of the plug. Wafer locks range from low to high security, with the vast majority of wafer locks being low security.

Warded

One of the oldest lock designs; uses internal wards to obstruct the rotation of incorrect keys. Warded locks provide minimal security by today's standards.

Locking Bolt Mechanisms

Deadbolt

A locking bolt that is held in place by end pressure. Traditionally a square shape, but may also be a claw or hook. Extremely popular in residential and commercial usage.

Latch/Spring

A spring-biased locking bolt. May be used as the locking mechansm padlocks, namely low security or warded padlocks. Popular in residential usage.

Padlock Shackle

A steel shackle detained by ball bearings or a spring-biased protrusion. Shackles without a double-locking system are usually susceptible to shimming.

Cam

A lock that uses the actuator as the locking bolt. Popular on vending machines and file cabinets.

Compromise of Locks

Security of locks can be compromised many ways, depending on the type, manufacturer and model, and the installation and maintenance details of a target lock.

Lockpicking

Internal components are manipulated to allow the lock to be opened.

Bypass

The non-cylinder portions of the lock are attacked, such as the locking bolt or the bolt actuator.

Impressioning

A working key is duplicated or internal components are manipulated to provide a working key.

Decoding

The proper position of internal components is decoded via the key or manipulation of components.

Destructive Entry

Destruction of the lock or surrounding materials, such as a door or wall.

See also

• How Locks Work
• Key
• Lockpicking