What is the Difference Between a Master Code and a Normal User Code?

The difference between a master code and a normal user code is that a master code can change itself and also add, edit, or delete normal user codes. If supported, the master code can also set the panel clock, view the event log, program schedules, and enter advanced Z-Wave settings.

Most panels support five types of codes:

Installer Code: The installer code can enter system programming. It can also set the clock, program schedules, view the event log, enter into any test mode and change both the master code and the installer code. The code can also be used to arm the system. However, the installer code can only disarm the system if it was the code that was used to arm the system in the first place. For that reason, arming with the installer code is not recommended.

Master Code: The master code can do everything the installer code can, except enter system programming, enter certain test modes, and program any installer-only schedules. The master code does have the ability to change itself, as well as add, edit or delete any other code, except for the installer code. The master code can always arm or disarm the system, regardless which code was used to arm, or if the system was quick armed. On most panels, the master code can never be deleted, only changed or defaulted.

User Codes: A normal user code can only arm and disarm the system and bypass zones. These codes can arm or disarm, regardless of which code was used to arm originally.

Guest / Babysitter Codes: These codes can always arm the system, but they can only disarm if they were the code used to arm the system in the first place. A guest or babysitter code cannot disarm if the panel was quick-armed. These codes can be used to bypass zones.

Duress Code: This code behaves just like a regular user code. However, when this code is entered, it will send a silent signal to the central monitoring station, letting the station know to dispatch help ASAP. Duress reporting can be disabled, and if it is, a duress code will behave like any other user code.