Securely Updating Your Security Code: A Step-by-step Guide

By Lilyanne Rice - On Aug 04, 2023

ADT security services is one of the top-tier home security solutions providers based in the United States. The provider has become a popular household name in the country due to their technologically advanced, cutting-edge equipment and exceptional services, like professional monitoring. One of the most common equipments users get from ADT is their alarm systems. ADT offers a variety of alarms, like smoke alarms, water alarms, motion detectors, and more. All of these alarms are controlled via a control panel and can be synced with your mobile devices through ADT’s mobile app.

These alarms are protected by a security code. This security code is confidential, and only you or some relevant personnel know about it. Over time, these alarms often need to be reset in order to function properly, particularly after a power outage and battery change.

In this article, let’s take a look at some of the security codes ADT alarm panels have, and how can you change those codes if required.

Types of Security Codes

ADT alarm panels have three types of access or security codes. Each code has its own function, authorizations, and privileges. These codes include:

ADT Default Code

The ADT default code is one of the most basic codes and its only function is to allow the person to arm or disarm the system. However, despite its minimal significance in terms of security, you still would want to keep this code confidential in case any other unauthorized person can’t disarm your alarm system. The default code has no access to the alarm systems setting and configuration.

This code provides more convenience compared to security. You may often need to arm and disarm your alarm system, and entering lengthy codes or going through multiple steps every time may take a lot of time. Through the default code, you can easily arm or disarm your alarm system in a matter of seconds.

ADT Duress Code

The ADT duress code is a code for emergency situations. It’s either 33 or 34. Its main function is to manually activate the alarms when you enter it. When a user enters this code, the ADT alarm panel automatically sends an alert to the local law enforcement authorities, who will reach you immediately for help.

This code is also useful in situations when a user is being forced to enter a code. They can enter this code and their nearest police station will be informed that the user is in danger and will take it as a call for help.

ADT Master Code

The ADT master code is a very specific access code that only you, or any other users you have authorized, should know. This code provides you access to your alarm panel control and configurations. In order to edit, add, or delete any setting, you will need this code. Anyone with this code can also access your personal information. Make sure you don’t share this code with anyone else unless you plan to give them access to your alarm panel.

The master code also enables users to change other security codes on their alarm systems. For example, if you need to change your duress code, you’ll require your master code. We’ll take a look at that in detail later in the article.

How to Change Your ADT Security Codes

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how you can change your ADT security codes without any professional help.

Changing the ADT Default Code

The very first step of changing the ADT default code is to press star on your ADT control panel’s keypad and follow it by pressing 5.
After this, the ADT panel will ask you to enter your ADT master code to proceed. Make sure you remember your master code correctly.
After entering the master code, select the code you want to change, starting from 01 to 32.
Now, you’ll be required to enter the new code of 4 or 6 digits, You can choose any combination of numbers you like. However, it’s advised not to choose obvious combinations that are easy to guess, like 1234, etc.
If you have entered the new code and want to save it, all you need to do is press # and the control panel will save the new password.

Changing the ADT Duress Code

The ADT duress code is a code for emergency situations and alerts the local law enforcement authorities of any emergency you might be in. Therefore, ADT doesn’t allow changing these codes yourself at home. Usually, ADT control panels have a duress code that is 33 or 34. However, some systems also use 2580. If you’re unsure what your dress code is or want any further information or clarity regarding anything, make sure to reach out to ADT security customer service.

Changing the ADT Master Code

As mentioned above, your ADT master code is the most powerful code because it can give you access to your personal information, setting, and configurations. Due to this, this code needs to be secure at all times. If you suspect anyone, who’s not supposed to know your master code, knows your master code, make sure to immediately change it.

However, this can only be done if you know the existing master code. If not, you’ll have to reach out to ADT customer service and prove your identity before they allow you to change the master code. Here’s a step-by-step guide to changing the master code yourself at home.

Start off by pressing the star key on your ADT panel’s keypad, and then press 5.
Enter the existing master code. If you enter the right master code, a red light indicating the system is armed will show up on the ADT control panel. A yellow light will also flash once.
Next, you need to enter the number 40. This allows you to proceed to change the master code.
After this, the control panel will ask you to choose a new 4 or 6-digit master code. Make sure you choose a combination that’s not easy to guess. However, make sure to choose a combination that you’ll easily remember.
Press the # key to save the settings.

You can also test the system by entering the new master code in order to ensure the new code has been saved. In some systems, this is done automatically. However, in some, you’ll have to manually change the master code on the control panel if you changed the master code on your ADT portal.

You can do so by:

Visit the ADT Pulse website and enter your email/username and password to log into your account.
Select the security panel settings on the screen.
Click on the change master code option.
Enter the new master code you created and save the settings.

Final Thoughts

ADT alarm panels are protected by a variety of security codes. These codes ensure you are safe in emergency situations, and your information is protected as well. You can change some of these codes if you want, however, some codes, like the ADT duress code, can not be changed. If you need any further assistance with changing your ADT security codes or have any questions, you can get in touch with the ADT customer service team today.