ADT is among the industry’s biggest home security service providers, serving millions of people in North America. It is also important to note that almost all ADT alarm systems have a master code set by default, which enables users to activate or deactivate the system as well as modify other parameters. The best practice is to do this as soon as the ADT system is installed since the default master code may be easily guessed and for convenience to avoid having to remember the code. It only takes a few moments to change your master code and the feeling that no other person but you has access to your safe can be reassuring.

Things You'll Need:

  • The master code set up on the existing ADT alarm system
  • This is the interface used in setting up the alarm system and also in arming or disarming it.

Step 1: Access the User Menu The first step is accessing the user’s menu by typing the command ‘/user menu’ on the keyboard. The first thing that the user has to do to change the ADT alarm master code is to go into the user programming mode. This mode is useful in that it provides an opportunity to make alterations to several parameters of the system. 

  1. Ensure that your alarm system is not engaged. After successfully entering a code or pressing 9 for auto codes, the keypad will display ‘Ready to Arm’.
  2. If you already have a 4-digit master code, program this on the keypad. The keypad will display asterisks on the screen while you are entering the code to ensure that the code entered is not easily recognizable.
  3. Following the input of the code, the keypad will display the message “Master Code 20”. This means that you have selected or activated the user programming mode of the theremin.
  4. Now you merely dial the number “1” on the keypad. This will take you to the Master Code menu Press the switch 6 and 5 at the same time for 2 seconds to get to the Master Code menu.
  5. Please input the new 4-digit master code that you want to set. Once more, if the numerals are typed, the keypad will show that the asterisks have been entered.
  6. Please provide the new 4-digit master PIN code you wish to set to confirm it.
  7. The LCD of the keypad will show “Master Code Changed” and then it show “Master Code 20” to indicate that the new master code has been set.
  8. You will then use the keypad to press the “Off” button to exit the call.
  9. The keypad will show another message such as “Ready to Arm” This is an indication that you have come out of the User Menu.

You will from now on use a new 4-digit master code to arm, disarm, and make any other possible modifications to the system. Ensure that the number code you decide on is one that you alone can easily remember but nobody else can guess easily. Specifically, it is recommended not to use details that are directly related to a person – such as birthday or address.

  • They also should not be chosen from easy numbers sequences that can be easily guessed such as 1111 or 1234.
  • Avoid repetition in the same digits, like 12,12 or 20,20.
  • Do not use personal details…like your street address numbers or phone numbers that can be guessed quite easily.
  • It is advisable to set a strong integer number code between four to eight digits for a more secure account. One, longer codes are more difficult to crack as compared to shortcodes.
  • It is recommended to change the master code of your home at least twice a year or every time someone who has access to the code is no longer with the family.
  • The last thing you want is to have someone who requires entry into your home during an emergency lack the code since all relatives with the code are related to the other.
  • It is advisable to write your master code and keep the paper that contains the code safely hidden if you forget the code. It is best to keep this in a super secure area perhaps in a safe deposit box.
  • It is also important not to give your alarm code to anyone outside your home, say a visitor or a contractor unless it is extremely necessary. Modify it when you no longer need to give them privileges or when they misbehave.

Conclusion

There is no better feeling of relief than properly resetting the master code after the ADT alarm security system has been installed. We can avoid this by modifying it from the default code provided by ADT for security purposes. It is equally important not to compromise the new master code to various safety measures including avoiding easy-to-guess numbers, limiting access and disclosure, changing the code at least twice a year, and storing it in a safe place in case one forgets it. These small measures will go a long way in ensuring that your home is as secure as possible as you go about your daily business securely in the knowledge that your home is safe.

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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!