What is a good security feature for an exterior door?

A rim lock is considered a good security feature for an exterior door because it provides an additional layer of security beyond the standard locking mechanisms typically found with doorknobs. Rim locks are installed on the surface of the door, making it difficult for intruders to tamper with the locking mechanism without drawing attention. They also often have a deadbolt feature that makes it much harder to force the door open compared to standard locks.

The effectiveness of a rim lock is further enhanced when it is used in conjunction with other security features, such as solid-core or steel doors, which provide increased resistance to physical attacks. This combination significantly improves the overall security of an entry point.

While other choices may offer some level of security, they generally do not match the effectiveness and reliability of a rim lock in preventing unauthorized entry. Hollow core doors are less secure than solid doors and may easily be compromised. A chain lock can provide some security, but it is more susceptible to being bypassed compared to a rim lock. Standard doorknobs typically come with basic locks that are easy to pick or force, making them inadequate for exterior doors without additional security measures in place.