A master key system is a clever and practical security solution that allows multiple keys to open one or more locks — while a single master key can open them all. It’s widely used in offices, apartment blocks, schools, and commercial properties to control access levels across different areas.
In this blog, we’ll explain exactly how master key systems work, their benefits, and whether they’re the right solution for your home or business.
Contents
Use the links below to jump to a specific section.
- What is a master a master key system?
- How do master keys work?
- Different types of master key system
- The benefits of master key systems
- Are master key systems secure?
- What’s the right system for you?
- Things to consider before switching to a master key system
- Master key systems from Thornhill security

Christmas brings excitement for many, both children and adults alike. The delights of festive foods, gift giving, and spending time with the family are the pinnacles of a great Christmas. But, unfortunately, Christmas is also a prosperous and joyous occasion for thieves across the globe.
Year upon year, commercial and retail industries experience the most amount of crime compared to any other sector with over 12,000 crimes reported in 2015 in the UK. This figure is far lower than previous years as many retailers have worked to improve the security of their businesses. Security is paramount to any business who wants to prevent crime against them, a break in can have devastating effects on a business and depending on the nature of the break it can compromise client confidentiality.
Think of a burglar and what do you picture? Maybe you imagine an individual in a black and white stripped top, black eye mask, a swag bag over his shoulder and a crow bar in the other hand. Well, this stereotypical view is certainly no longer the case, if it ever was, as smart burglars are unfortunately making themselves known.
Ensuring the security of your home or business property should be of the highest concern. Did you know that it only takes 12 minutes for a thief to gain access to your home and run off with all of your valuables?
a healthy bottom line, your list of to dos are potentially endless.