Digital keypad locks work by first requiring a user to enter a PIN code into the numeric keypad. Since the lock is digital, it has a power supply. If a user enters a code that has been programmed in the lock, it will disengage the deadbolt and allow the user to open the door.

Electronic door locks with codes, often called "keypad" or "smart" locks, work by replacing a traditional physical key with a digital authentication system. Inside the lock, a circuit board is connected to a keypad (either physical buttons or a touchscreen). When you enter the correct numeric sequence, the board sends an electrical pulse to an actuator or solenoid, which physically retracts the deadbolt or latch. In 2026, many of these locks are "smart-enabled," meaning they connect to home Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, allowing owners to generate "temporary guest codes" for travelers or service workers—a high-value feature for Airbnb hosts. These locks are powered by internal batteries and usually feature a mechanical key backup or a 9V battery terminal on the exterior for emergency power. The premier benefit of these systems is the "frictionless" entry they provide, eliminating the risk of lost keys and offering a high-quality layer of security through customizable access logs that track exactly who enters and when.