How to Change the Security Code for ADT Systems

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ADT security systems have more than one type of security or access code that allows users to operate the system. ADT security systems typically have a:

  • Master access code
  • Standard or user access code
  • Duress code.

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Master Access Code

The master access code represents the chief or administrator-level access to the system. When you use this code, you can arm or disarm the system; you can also edit, delete or add user or other access codes, or change specific settings for the entire system. Keep this code secure. Only share this code with those who need access to it, and change it periodically as needed. You may need to change the code because:

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  • You no longer want the people who have this code to use it
  • You're not sure who has the code and want to change it
  • A home, child or pet sitter no longer needs access to this code.

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To change an existing master code using your keypad system, you must already know that code. If you lose this number, you will need to contact ADT customer service to get the number or have a new one assigned. Be prepared with system identification and other personal information to verify you are the owner of the ADT system you want to access.

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Changing the Code

Step 1

Press the star [*] key and then the number 5 on the keypad, and enter the current master code number. If you have done this correctly, the red Armed light should come on and the yellow System light flashes.

Step 2

Enter the number 40 in the keypad, based on the model you have, to reprogram the master code in the system.

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Step 3

Enter a new four- or six-digit master code based on the system you have. After you have entered the new numbers, press the # key to indicate you have finished programming the code.

Step 4

Test the new master access code to ensure it works.

Changing User Codes

To change the user codes in the ADT system with keypad controls, press the star key and then the number 5 to indicate you want to reprogram a number. Enter your four- or six-digit master code number. Select the user access code you want to change, identified by entering 01 through 32. Enter the new four- or six-digit code. Press the # key to indicate you have finished programming. Test the new user code to see if it arms or disarms the system properly.

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Erase a Code

You can erase any code -- except the master access code -- by simply pressing the star key, then the number 5, followed by your master code. Enter the user code identifier, 01 through 32. Press the star key to erase the code, then press the # key to indicate you have finished programming. You cannot erase the master code this way -- you can only reprogram it.

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ADT Pulse Portal Systems

After changing the master code through your ADT Pulse Portal, you will also need to change it manually on your control panel via the keypad, unless you have a system that updates the control panel automatically.

Step 1

Access the pulse portal system by navigating to portal.ADTPulse.com. Enter your username and password.

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Step 2

Press the System tab on the control panel on the screen.

Step 3

Use the mouse to select Security Panel.

Step 4

Click on the Change Master Code option.

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Step 5

Enter the new code in the box that appears in the pop-up screen. Press Save when you're done.

Default Duress Codes

The default duress codes 33 or 34 can be pressed in an emergency to activate the alarm immediately; some ADT models may use other duress codes. These are part of the ADT system and cannot be changed. They are not active when in programming mode.

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