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A remote keyless system is a system designed to remotely permit or deny access to premises or automobiles. There are several RKE systems on the market, including but not limited to KeeLoq by Microchip, HITAG by Philips, and AVR411 by Atmel.
In the case of automobiles an RKS performs the functions of a standard car key without physical contact; power door locks can be locked or unlocked from several feet away or even from inside a building. (In this regard, the term "keyless" is a misnomer since the fob acts as an electronic key. Locking it in the car is just as much of a problem as doing the same with a mechanical key.)

A remote keyless system can include both a remote keyless entry system (RKE) and a remote keyless ignition system (RKI).
Remote keyless systems first began appearing as an option on several American Motors vehicles in 1983, including the Renault Alliance. The feature gained its first widespread availability on General Motors' W-platform vehicles (the Buick Regal, Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme and Pontiac Grand Prix) in 1989.

Remote keyless systems operate by broadcasting radio waves on a particular frequency. Most RKEs work on 315MHz in North America and Japan, and 433.92MHz in Europe. Modern systems implement encryption to prevent car thieves from intercepting and spoofing the signal.
The system signals that it has either locked or unlocked the car usually through some fairly discreet combination of flashing vehicle lamps, a distinctive sound other than the horn, or some usage of the horn itself.

The functions of a remote keyless entry system are contained on a key fob or built into the ignition key handle itself. Buttons are dedicated to locking or unlocking the doors and opening the trunk (or, on sport utility vehicles and station wagons, unlock/open the rear tailgate). Some cars will also close any open windows and roof when remotely locking the car. Some remote keyless fobs also feature a red panic button which activates the car alarm as a standard feature.
Some cars' engines with remote keyless ignition systems can be started by the push of a button on the key fob.

For offices, or residences, the system can also be coupled with the security system, garage door opener or remotely activated lighting devices.