
To visualize this, it can be thought of as a hierarchical chart, or a tree.Ī practical attack exists to create a working master key for an entire system given only access to a single master-keyed lock, its associated change key, a supply of appropriate key blanks, and the ability to cut new keys. Larger organizations, with more complex systems, may have several levels of master keys, where the top level key works in all of the locks in the system. For example, a standard 6 pin cylinder, which was designed to be operated by only one key, can be operated by up to 2 6 = 64 keys if there are two shear points in each chamber. The fact that some pin chambers have two shear points allows for more options when picking and it also allows for more keys to operate. Master keyed lock systems generally reduce overall security. A far more secure (and more expensive) system has two cylinders in each lock, one for the change key and one for the master key.

For example, master keyed pin tumbler locks often have two shear points at each pin position, one for the change key and one for the master key. Locks that have master keys have a second set of the mechanism used to operate them that is identical to all of the others in the set of locks. These master-keyed locks are configured to operate with two, or more, different keys: one specific to each lock (the change key), which cannot operate any of the others in the set, and the master key, which operates all the locks in the set. Usually, there is nothing special about the key itself, but rather the locks into which it will fit. When you order a set of master keyed locks, you'll receive a unique key for each of the locks as well as a shared master key that can open all the locks.Master key turning a pin tumbler lock with two shear pointsĪ master key operates a set of several locks. Here at Commando Lock, though, you can purchase master keyed lock sets. Most local retailers such as these only sell basic locks without a master key. You probably won't find master keyed locks available for sale at most home improvement or general goods stores. If an employee loses his or her key, you can use your master key to open the employee's lock. Most importantly, you'll have a master key that you can use to open all your employees' locks if the need arises. Using master keyed locks, each of these employees can have his or her own unique lock. If you run a business, you may need to provide certain employees with a unique lock. When should you use master keyed locks? It's not uncommon for business owners, managers and administrators to use master keyed locks. The only difference is that master keyed locks support the use of a master key, which is capable of opening all the locks in the master keyed lock system. They feature a shackle connected to a body that you can open by inserting and turning a key. Master keyed locks look and function just like any other padlock. At the same time, you'll also receive a master key that can be used to open all 10 locks. If you purchase 10 master keyed locks, for example, each of the 10 locks will have a unique key. Whether it consists of two master keyed locks or 200, though, each lock supports a unique key as well as a shared master key. Rather, they are sold in multiple units as part of a master keyed lock system. Overview of Master Keyed LockĪ master keyed lock is a padlock that works with both a unique key as well as a master key. You can avoid problems such as this by choosing master keyed locks. If you happen to lose one of these keys, you won't be able to open the lock to the respective unit. If you manage an office complex with a dozen different units, for example, you may have 12 keys - one for each of unit. When managing multiple locks, it's difficult to keep track of all the keys.
