If you decide to have a new alarm system from ADT, a technician will install the system at your home or business and then guide you on the alarm codes for both arming and disarming the system. The use of the default alarm code is usually the entry of a four-digit number. As a security measure, ADT advises changing the alarm codes often- this serves as an added security precaution. Modifying the code can be done directly from the keypad of the alarm system and it is also an easy process. Let me explain the procedure in detail so that you can follow each of the steps mentioned below.

Before You Begin

However, before changing the current ADT alarm system code, it is crucial to have the existing functional code. This is something you will have to input before you can push a new code in. If you have lost your current code for whatever reason you may have to contact ADT customer support and the user is usually asked to verify an identity before the codes can be changed.

Additionally, think about whether you need a change of the main master code and or secondary ones or just the master code. This is the main code used to control the whole alarm system and it can be used for all the functions. Most secondary codes are for those who need restricted access such as the family caregiver, house help, or sitters who can only program the car and disarm the alarm system.

Last but not least, as to the new alarm code you have chosen, it is up to you whether you want to stick to four digits or add two more digits, so, it will be six digits to provide extra protection. ADT systems can hold codes of between four and six digits, depending on the range of codes being used. What you have to know is that if you decide to have a longer code, it will take you a longer time to input the code each time you want to activate or deactivate the system.

Outlined below are procedures to change your ADT alarm code:

Follow these simple steps to change your ADT alarm master code or any secondary codes programmed into your system: 

  1. If the system has been armed, you should then input your current master code, which is composed of four digits, to disarm the system.
  2. Turn on the keypad and press the CODE or PROG button from the keypad until a menu for the “Master Code” appears on the screen.
  3. This will require you to input a fresh master code that is between four and six digits long. The keypad should display a message of ‘code change accepted.
  4. To modify any other secondary codes that may have been programmed in the system, perform steps two and three over again.

Check the functionality of the newly generated master code and the newly generated secondary codes by initiating an arm and disarm operation of your system. If none yields a positive result, then the steps of the process two to four should be redone.

Some of the Guidelines to Consider When Selecting a Good Alarm Code

The following guidelines should be observed when choosing a new ADT alarm code; Do not choose a combination of numbers such as dates of birth or straight number sequences that would be easy to identify. Instead, consider the following tips: Instead, consider the following tips:

Choose numbers in a sequence that cannot be guessed easily by using the first four numbers for security and the first six numbers for enhanced security.

  • It is also important not to use numbers that are in sequence or close to each other such as 111111 or 123456.
  • Avoid using personal dates or other numbers likely to be unearthed through social networks or guessed by anyone close to you.
  • It is advisable to change your alarm codes for instance every six to twelve months for privacy purposes.
  • The best place to keep your written alarm code should not be at home, but rather in a safer place such as in a safety deposit box.
  • It is also recommended to avoid having the alarm code begin with the same number sequence that it ends with since this is easy for someone to crack.
  • It is advisable not to give your alarm codes to other people, especially those who live outside your household. In this case, grant them secondary codes when you allow only restricted access to the system.

If you follow these pointers, it will make it possible for you to come up with a more random and secure ADT alarm code not easily guessable by possible burglars. Perhaps, using different codes at different times is another measure to enhance security in your home or business alarm system.

Adding Secondary Alarm Codes

In the ADT alarm system, you can set other secondary codes in addition to the master code while using the master code on the keypad. This allows for some family members, pet sitters, or housekeepers to use various features such as arming/disarming the security system while denying them the right to add or delete codes.

To add a secondary four to six-digit ADT alarm code: 

  1. With your account logged in either online or with the smartphone application, navigate to the ADT Pulse login.
  2. To add a new user, click the Add User button and then input all necessary information for the new user profile.
  3. Choose options for the second code – only for the code, for code and disarm, for the Code & panels, video, etc.
  4. Reveal the new secondary alarm code to only those members of the household who have been authorized to know.

Alarm Code Best Practices

To ensure your ADT alarm system remains secure, keep these best practices in mind related to your system codes: 

• Do not disclose alarm codes on social media platforms or any other social surfaces • It is strongly recommended that you do not use any numbers that may be associated with your birthday, address, or other personal information. • A master code should be changed every six to twelve months. • Secondary codes should be assigned to ensure specifically defined system functions are limited when several users have access • This is done by deleting any old secondary codes that are no longer relevant to the current set of household members. • If ever you think that a code has been compromised, call ADT without delay.

One of the key aspects of managing your alarm system is to carefully control the number of individuals who have the codes to disarm the alarm system so that you can both secure your home or business as well as provide convenience to the other people in your home such as family members, pet sitters and other people who you may occasionally allow into your home.

Protect your home today with ADT’s top-rated security solutions!

Call now at +1 877-470-7879 to get a free consultation and find out how you can secure your home with the best in the business. Don’t wait—ensure your peace of mind with ADT!