Security Systems

Home security has changed quite a bit since the old days of landline systems where burglars could cut the wire to sever communications between your home and a monitoring station. We’ve entered the era of smart technology, and home security is catching up to the times.

Along with a plethora of DIY offerings (think easy self-install at your own convenience vs having a professional hardwire equipment on a scheduled installation day and time), home security has expanded from the typical motion and door/window sensors to smart home technology that integrates everything from your door locks and light switches to your thermostats. The technology and terminology can be overwhelming, so we put together a guide on home security systems to help.

Red false alarm keys on keyboard

What Causes False Alarms on Home Security Systems?

A false alarm occurs when your security system alarm goes off without a proper reason. These alarms can also happen with security cameras and motion sensors that send alerts through an app or email. Anytime you receive a warning and there’s no valid reason for it, it’s a false alarm. Unfortunately, if you can’t stop a false alarm, your security system may send emergency responders to your home. That situation can be a waste of time for the responders and costly and embarrassing for you.

Tiny model house sitting on hundred dollar bills and keys

How Much Does A Home Security System Cost in 2023?

A dependable security system doesn’t have to cost you a fortune. But the initial offer you receive may look sweeter than it is, and may not contain all of what you’ll end up paying out of pocket. In addition to your equipment price or monthly monitoring fee, there are often installation, upgrade, add-on, and other hidden costs you’ll encounter after you sign up. Our experts compare the top providers and sift through the hidden fees so your wallet won’t be surprised later.

Frontpoint home security equipment on a gray background

Ring vs Frontpoint: Which Alarm System is Right for You?

Frontpoint and Ring Alarm offer no-contract professionally monitored home security systems. You can install both systems yourself, and they even use the same monitoring service. But can one protect your home better than the other?

Link Interactive home security panel

Link Interactive Review: Features, Pricing, and Much More

Link Interactive offers home security at a competitive monthly price. Unlike most providers, you don’t start with bundled equipment packages. Instead, they let you customize your system to fit your home. This way, you pay only for what you need. But how does it stack up to the competition? Our home security experts dive in and review this provider with all the details you’ll need to make an informed decision.

ADT yard sign in front yard of home

ADT Security Review: Is It Worth the Investment?

ADT is one of the oldest and possibly the most well-known home security company. With more than 140 years of experience, ADT is a household name. But does being around so long also mean it’s the best at securing your home? We lift the hood and find out in our comprehensive review.

Simplisafe smart lock with pin pad and smart phone

SimpliSafe Smart Lock Installation Guide in 11 Easy Steps

SimpliSafe’s Smart Lock syncs with their home security system. But unlike most home security components that you can easily install via a peel-and-stick adhesive, the smart lock takes some extra work. But don’t worry, it’s easier than you might think! Our experts take you through the installation process step-by-step, with a video for our visual learners.

ADT home security sign on brick exterior

Here’s How to Cancel Your ADT Home Security System

ADT is one of the most prominent names in home security. Unfortunately, as some frustrated consumers discover, that doesn’t always mean you’re the best. ADT uses an authorized reseller model to distribute and install its systems, so your experience in one city could vastly differ from another location. If you’re fed up with ADT and want to cancel, here’s how you do it.

ring alarm keypad on wall jpg

Ring Security System Installation: A Guide For An Easy Setup

Installing a security system can sound intimidating, but Ring Alarm couldn’t make it more simple. Whether you’ve already bought your Ring Alarm security system or you’re thinking about getting one and want to know what you’re getting into, this article by our home security expert Kimberly has the instructions (and a step-by-step video) on how to get your Ring Alarm system up and running.

Google Home app controlling smart home features

Best Home Security Systems That Work With Google Home In 2023

Google Home is an excellent tool for automating your home. When you combine that with a compatible home security system, you take that automation to the next level. Google Home compatible home security systems integrate with Google Home to activate voice commands to increase the ease of use.

Simplisafe 'The Essentials' security system components on a white background.

SimpliSafe Reviews (2023): Camera, Doorbell, Smart Lock, Smoke Detector, Customer Reviews, And More

You’ve seen the SimpliSafe commercials — low cost, no commitment, etc. — too good to be true? There’s no long-term contract, and you can easily relocate the system if you move homes. While the equipment itself costs more than competitors, you’ll save on monthly monitoring fees, which are some of the most competitive in the industry. We’ll help you decide if SimpliSafe can help keep your family and property safe from break-ins.

Frontpoint home security equipment on a gray background

Frontpoint Security Review 2023: Is It Reliable? The Pros & Cons

Frontpoint has security and automation equipment to help protect your home. The service and equipment are top-notch, and the DIY setup is a breeze. And now, it offers month to month agreements which makes it convenient for both homeowners and renters. But the home security space is crowded, there are tons of options. Are you really getting the best value with Frontpoint?

Close-up of Ring video doorbell in hand with floor and plant in background.

Ring Security System Review 2023: See What Our Test Showed

Ring is known for its video doorbells, and now it offers a self-monitored security system that you can install yourself. You can even sync the system with a doorbell or one of its security cameras. One app accesses everything, and all of the equipment has a modern look, unlike some of its competitors. You can opt for professional monitoring for a small monthly fee, but does it have the reputation you want from a monitoring company?

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