High security locks

= High Security Locks =

High security locks are locks that provide increased resistance to compromise. While many vendors market their locks as high security, only those that are given a security rating are considered high security. Most high security locks exhibit certain characteristics that improve their ability to withstand manipulation and forced entry for a given amount of time.

High Security Characteristics
Most high-security locks have many of the following included in their design to increase security. Many of these characterstics are pre-requisites for various security ratings and certifications.


 * Restrictive Keyways
 * The use of complex and paracentric keyways frustrate attacks by manipulation by making it harder to insert and manuever tools within the lock.


 * Key Control
 * The ability to control the creation, distribution, and cutting of keys for a given lock can greatly increase the security of the keying system for a given lock. Most high security locks have key bows and warding patterns that are patent protected to prevent unauthorized manufacturing. Keys to high security locks also generally require a specialized key cutting machine to produce high-quality working keys for the lock.


 * Key Differs
 * High security locks traditionally offer a very high number of real and theoretical key differs to prevent cross keying and allow for complex master keying configurations.


 * Anti-Manipulation Components
 * Almost all high-security locks have components designed to resist manipulation from lockpicking and decoding attacks. Security pins are the most popular example of anti-manipulation components in pin-tumbler locks. Some locks also have components designed to resist impressioning and key bumping.


 * High Manufacturing Tolerances
 * Increased concern over the tolerance of components to provide a manipulation-resistant and functional lock accompanies most high-security locks. Increased tolerances also help to increase the number of available component sizes or depths and promote longevity of the lock.

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