keyedalike

Keyedalike is a term used in locksmithing to describe a configuration in which multiple locks operate with a single key. The standard form is keyed-alike (or keyed alike); keyedalike is a less common variant spelling that appears in some sources. In a keyed-alike arrangement, locks such as doors, cabinets, or lockers are cut and pinned to accept the same key, using a matching keyway across all affected cylinders.

Implementation typically requires matching keyways and pinning. A locksmith rekeys the cylinders or installs compatible locks so their bittings correspond to one key. This arrangement reduces the number of distinct keys in circulation and simplifies access management, particularly in buildings with many similar closures. However, the approach increases security risk: if the shared key is lost or stolen, all keyed-alike locks may be compromised; key control and timely replacement are important.

Applications include commercial properties, multifamily housing, storage facilities, and institutions where many locks need the same level of access. Keyed-alike systems can be contrasted with keyed-different systems, where each lock has its own unique key, and with master-key systems, which allow a single master key to open multiple locks while preserving individual keys for each lock. In practice, the choice between keyed-alike, keyed-different, and master-key approaches depends on security requirements, convenience, and key-management policies.