Alarm Grid Tips: Don't Arm Using Your Installer Code

Hi DIYers! Today, we're presenting another basic security tip. This tip is to never Arm or Disarm your system using your Installer Code. That system code should only be used for programming, and it should be kept at its default to prevent you from being locked out of programming later.

If you go to Arm your system, you will often be prompted to enter a system code. Normally, you will use your Master Code or a standard user code to complete the Arming process. However, you will notice that your can technically Arm using your system's Installer Code. By doing this, you will make it possible for you to Disarm using that same code later on. But if you use your Master Code or a user code to arm, then you will not be able to disarm using your Installer Code.

The problem with using your Installer Code to Arm and Disarm is that an intruder may know the code and use it to gain access to the system. Default Installer Codes are usually common knowledge, and an intruder will often try one of these codes in a quick attempt to disarm. While keeping the Installer Code at its default is good practice, you will never want to use this code on a regular basis. Instead, you should only use the Installer Code to enter programming when the system is already Disarmed.

The default Installer Codes for many popular security systems are as follows:

• Honeywell Systems - 4112
• 2GIG Systems - 1561
• Qolsys Systems - 1111
• Interlogix Systems - 4321
• DSC Systems - 5555

If you are using one of these codes to Arm and Disarm your system, then you should stop this practice immediately. Instead, you should use your system's Master Code to arm and disarm. Make sure you change the Master Code from its default before using it to control your system. Set it to a unique code that is difficult for others to guess, but easy for you to remember. Then use that unique and personalized code to Arm and Disarm when needed. If you need to create any additional system codes, make sure they are not obvious for an intruder to guess. You can Arm and Disarm using a standard user code just like you would a Master Code.

If you are an Alarm Grid customer with questions about system codes, please reach out to us. We want to make sure you are using a secure code to Arm and Disarm your system and that you are not putting yourself at-risk for a security breach. Please email us at support@alarmgrid.com, or call us at (888) 818-7728 during our normal business hours of 9am to 8pm EST M-F. We look forward to hearing from you.