A master key operates a set of several locks. Usually, there is nothing different about the key. The differences are in the locks the key will operate. 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. 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. 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. 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.
8-413: A skeleton key (also known as a passkey ) is a type of master key in which the serrated edge has been removed in such a way that it can open numerous locks , most commonly the warded lock . The term derives from the fact that the key has been reduced to its essential parts. A skeleton key is a key that has been filed or cut to create one that can be used to unlock a variety of warded locks each with
16-445: A different configuration of wards. This can usually be done by removing most of the center of the key, allowing it to pass by the wards without interference, operating the lock. To counteract the illicit creation of such keys, locksmiths can put wards not just in the center but on the outside as well, making the creation of a skeleton key more difficult. Lever lock skeleton keys are used in a lock with usually three or five levers and
24-477: A laundry room where individual residents can use their own apartment key to access these areas. Unlike a master key system, where each individual lock has one individual operating key and one common master key, a maison lock is designed to be operated by every key within the system. Because of the inherent lack of security in the maison key system, some jurisdictions prohibit the use of maison key systems in apartment and condominium complexes. In such locations, access
32-409: A set of wards that come into contact with the bit of the key only on the sides—the top is for pushing the levers to their correct heights while the warded section of the key just has to pass uninterrupted to allow the key to rotate fully. A master key system of lever locks has the same lever heights in all locks. Each door will have different wards and can only be opened by the correctly warded key or
40-444: A standard 6 pin cylinder, which was designed to be operated by only one key, can be operated by up to 2 = 64 keys if there are two shear points in each chamber. 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. To visualize this, it can be thought of as a hierarchical chart, or a tree . A practical attack exists to create
48-531: 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. Locksmiths may also determine cuts for a replacement master key, when given several different key examples from a given system. A maison key system is a keying system that permits a lock to be opened with a number of unique, individual keys. Maison key systems are often found in apartment building common areas, such as main entrance or
56-502: Is required and the original key has been lost or is not available. In hotels without electronic locks , skeleton keys are used by housekeeping services to enter the rooms. This crime -related article is a stub . You can help Misplaced Pages by expanding it . Master keying Master keyed lock systems generally reduce overall security. 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. For example,
64-656: The master key. A skeleton key has the warded section of the key removed so that it opens all the doors of a system. Some applications, such as a building with multiple entrance doors, have numerous locks that are keyed alike; one key will open every door. A keyed-alike system is different from a master key system as none of the locks have a key that can open only that lock. Skeleton keys have often been associated with attempts to defeat locks for illicit purposes, to release handcuffs for example, and standard keys have been filed down for that purpose. Legitimate skeleton or master keys are used in many modern contexts where lock operation
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