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.
Home security systems help keep our families safe and feeling secure. But what happens when you lose power? Does your system keep working? It’s important not to leave yourself in a vulnerable situation. You may need a battery backup to ensure your security system stays active when your family needs it most. Do you know if your security system has a battery backup?
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.
Want a home security system that can connect to your smart thermostat, door lock, cameras and more? Nest Secure might be the security system for you. It offers attractive, modern equipment and it’s easy to set up. But is Nest Secure worth the high price tag?
Another new entrant into the now crowded home security space, Cove Security offers equipment and professional monitoring at mouth watering prices. But at the moment the equipment line-up is rather barebones. Can Cove provide the protection you need or are you better off going with an alternate provider? Our experts dive in and find out.
ADT has two apps that allow you to control and monitor your ADT security and automation system from anywhere. Depending on the system you have installed, you’ll be using either ADT Pulse or ADT Control as your app. Our experts show you everything you can do with the ADT app and home security system.
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.
Brinks, the armored car transportation service that is known to transport money from location to location in its armored trucks, has also entered the lucrative home security market. Unfortunately, just because they’re good at protecting your hard-earned dollars on their way to the bank, doesn’t mean they’re good at protecting your valuables at home. If you’re fed up with Brinks’ home security and want to cancel, here’s how you do it.
Vivint has established itself as a leader in home security, building out its portfolio of smart technologies before competitors. Unfortunately, as some frustrated consumers discover, that doesn’t mean they’re the best (or most affordable) option for everyone. If you’re fed up with Vivint and want to cancel, here’s how you do it.
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.
Abode (not to be confused with the Adobe line of creative software) is a solid home security system for those of you who want no contracts and a low professional monitoring fee. Their all-in-one Iota system is easy to install, and there’s a wide range of equipment to choose from. So why isn’t Abode as widely talked about as its competitors? Our experts dive in to find out.
There are two types of home security systems prevalent on today’s market: those with professional monitoring and those that are self-monitored (by you and your network of contacts). The former typically includes a monthly fee ($20-$70) to cover the cost of the monitoring station, while with the latter you typically only pay for the equipment. Self-monitored systems put you in control, and with many providers you still have access to cutting-edge “smart” technology that you can control from your smartphone. Our experts review the top providers with features, pricing, pros, cons, real user feedback and more.
Guardian Protection has been around for 40+ years and is one of the old-guard security companies that require professional installation and long-term contracts. However, they have a sleek, modern system for today’s smart home and a good customer service reputation. With so many different home security options, is Guardian the best company to watch over your home and loved ones?
