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Thanks to smart security systems, it's easier and more affordable than ever to monitor your home from pretty much anywhere. At PCMag, we've been reviewing smart home security solutions for nearly 20 years. We test these products in our own homes, evaluating the installation and user experience, response times, component and monitoring options, contractual requirements, and value for the price. Our mission is to provide you with accurate, unbiased information to help you choose the best smart home security system for your needs and budget. All of the products below are worth considering, but SimpliSafe ranks number one for DIY security, Abode is our top pick for smart home compatibility, and Vivint is the best option if you need professional monitoring. Read on for all of the best smart home security systems we've tested, followed by the factors you should consider before deciding how to secure and monitor your home.
Our Top Tested Picks
SimpliSafe Home Security System
Bottom Line
- 5.0 - Exemplary: Near perfection, ground-breaking
- 4.5 - Outstanding: Best in class, acts as a benchmark for measuring competitors
- 4.0 - Excellent: A performance, feature, or value leader in its class, with few shortfalls
- 3.5 - Good: Does what the product should do, and does so better than many competitors
- 3.0 - Average: Does what the product should do, and sits in the middle of the pack
- 2.5 - Fair: We have some reservations, buy with caution
- 2.0 - Subpar: We do not recommend, buy with extreme caution
- 1.5 - Poor: Do not buy this product
- 1.0 - Dismal: Don't even think about buying this product
Read Our Editorial Mission Statement and Testing Methodologies.
If you want to secure and monitor your home without spending a bundle or signing a long-term contract, there's a lot to like about the versatile and easy-to-use SimpliSafe Home Security System.
Pros
- Affordable, well-designed hardware
- No monitoring or contract required
- Diverse monitoring options, including real-time crime intervention
- Easy, free DIY setup or optional paid professional installation
- Cellular and Wi-Fi connectivity, the latter of which is optional for privacy
Cons
- Very limited integration with other smart home devices
Abode Iota All-In-One Security Kit
Bottom Line
- 5.0 - Exemplary: Near perfection, ground-breaking
- 4.5 - Outstanding: Best in class, acts as a benchmark for measuring competitors
- 4.0 - Excellent: A performance, feature, or value leader in its class, with few shortfalls
- 3.5 - Good: Does what the product should do, and does so better than many competitors
- 3.0 - Average: Does what the product should do, and sits in the middle of the pack
- 2.5 - Fair: We have some reservations, buy with caution
- 2.0 - Subpar: We do not recommend, buy with extreme caution
- 1.5 - Poor: Do not buy this product
- 1.0 - Dismal: Don't even think about buying this product
Read Our Editorial Mission Statement and Testing Methodologies.
The Abode Iota Smart Security Kit is a versatile, all-in-one DIY system that combines strong home monitoring, smart home integration, and flexible expansion at a competitive price.
Pros
- Sharp 1080p camera
- Works with numerous third-party devices
- Alexa, Google Assistant, HomeKit, and IFTTT support
- Local storage
- On-demand professional monitoring available
- Easy to install
Cons
- Some components can be pricey
- No free cloud storage
Vivint HomeProtect Pro
Bottom Line
- 5.0 - Exemplary: Near perfection, ground-breaking
- 4.5 - Outstanding: Best in class, acts as a benchmark for measuring competitors
- 4.0 - Excellent: A performance, feature, or value leader in its class, with few shortfalls
- 3.5 - Good: Does what the product should do, and does so better than many competitors
- 3.0 - Average: Does what the product should do, and sits in the middle of the pack
- 2.5 - Fair: We have some reservations, buy with caution
- 2.0 - Subpar: We do not recommend, buy with extreme caution
- 1.5 - Poor: Do not buy this product
- 1.0 - Dismal: Don't even think about buying this product
Read Our Editorial Mission Statement and Testing Methodologies.
The excellent Vivint HomeProtect Pro security system offers 24/7 professional monitoring and remote control of your cameras, door locks, heating, and more.
Pros
- Speedy event response
- Offers remote control of door locks, cameras, thermostats, and sensors
- Responsive touch screen
- Supports Alexa and Google voice commands
- No lengthy contract required
Cons
- Requires a monthly subscription for remote access
- Some components can be pricey
Ring Alarm Pro
Bottom Line
- 5.0 - Exemplary: Near perfection, ground-breaking
- 4.5 - Outstanding: Best in class, acts as a benchmark for measuring competitors
- 4.0 - Excellent: A performance, feature, or value leader in its class, with few shortfalls
- 3.5 - Good: Does what the product should do, and does so better than many competitors
- 3.0 - Average: Does what the product should do, and sits in the middle of the pack
- 2.5 - Fair: We have some reservations, buy with caution
- 2.0 - Subpar: We do not recommend, buy with extreme caution
- 1.5 - Poor: Do not buy this product
- 1.0 - Dismal: Don't even think about buying this product
Read Our Editorial Mission Statement and Testing Methodologies.
The Ring Alarm Pro is a powerful all-in-one home security system that pairs reliable protection with built-in Wi-Fi 6 networking, making it an excellent choice—especially if you also need a new router.
Pros
- Built-in Wi-Fi 6 mesh router
- Excellent power and internet backup solutions
- Supports Alexa voice control
- Works with lots of Ring and third-party devices
Cons
- Lacks Google Assistant, HomeKit, and IFTTT support
- Some features require a subscription
ADT Front Door Protection
Bottom Line
- 5.0 - Exemplary: Near perfection, ground-breaking
- 4.5 - Outstanding: Best in class, acts as a benchmark for measuring competitors
- 4.0 - Excellent: A performance, feature, or value leader in its class, with few shortfalls
- 3.5 - Good: Does what the product should do, and does so better than many competitors
- 3.0 - Average: Does what the product should do, and sits in the middle of the pack
- 2.5 - Fair: We have some reservations, buy with caution
- 2.0 - Subpar: We do not recommend, buy with extreme caution
- 1.5 - Poor: Do not buy this product
- 1.0 - Dismal: Don't even think about buying this product
Read Our Editorial Mission Statement and Testing Methodologies.
The ADT Front Door Protection Security System gives you everything you need to monitor and protect your home from intruders and porch pirates while letting you grant access to contractors, family, and friends.
Pros
- Tight integration with Google Nest, Yale devices
- DIY or professional installation
- Helpful Trusted Neighbor service
- Z-Wave compatible
Cons
- Requires 24/7 monitoring plan
- Some add-on components are pricey
Arlo Home Security System
Bottom Line
- 5.0 - Exemplary: Near perfection, ground-breaking
- 4.5 - Outstanding: Best in class, acts as a benchmark for measuring competitors
- 4.0 - Excellent: A performance, feature, or value leader in its class, with few shortfalls
- 3.5 - Good: Does what the product should do, and does so better than many competitors
- 3.0 - Average: Does what the product should do, and sits in the middle of the pack
- 2.5 - Fair: We have some reservations, buy with caution
- 2.0 - Subpar: We do not recommend, buy with extreme caution
- 1.5 - Poor: Do not buy this product
- 1.0 - Dismal: Don't even think about buying this product
Read Our Editorial Mission Statement and Testing Methodologies.
The Arlo Home Security System is a flexible, easy-to-install DIY solution with uniquely versatile sensors and strong smart home integration, but its best features require extra hardware and pricier subscriptions.
Pros
- Integrates with all Arlo doorbells and cameras
- Uses multifunction sensors
- Works with IFTTT
- Supports voice controls
- No-contract professional monitoring
- Easy to install and manage
Cons
- Cellular and battery backup capabilities cost extra
- No Z-Wave connectivity
Eufy ExpertSecure System E10
Bottom Line
- 5.0 - Exemplary: Near perfection, ground-breaking
- 4.5 - Outstanding: Best in class, acts as a benchmark for measuring competitors
- 4.0 - Excellent: A performance, feature, or value leader in its class, with few shortfalls
- 3.5 - Good: Does what the product should do, and does so better than many competitors
- 3.0 - Average: Does what the product should do, and sits in the middle of the pack
- 2.5 - Fair: We have some reservations, buy with caution
- 2.0 - Subpar: We do not recommend, buy with extreme caution
- 1.5 - Poor: Do not buy this product
- 1.0 - Dismal: Don't even think about buying this product
Read Our Editorial Mission Statement and Testing Methodologies.
The Eufy ExpertSecure System E10 is a powerful, feature-rich DIY security solution with excellent local storage and smart AI capabilities, but its high price makes it best suited for existing Eufy users.
Pros
- Local video storage
- Dual-band Wi-Fi with cellular internet backup
- Works with most Eufy cameras and doorbells
- Supports Amazon Alexa and Google Home integrations
- Battery backup
Cons
- Professional monitoring not yet available
- Data plan required for cellular backup
Ring Alarm Security Kit
Bottom Line
- 5.0 - Exemplary: Near perfection, ground-breaking
- 4.5 - Outstanding: Best in class, acts as a benchmark for measuring competitors
- 4.0 - Excellent: A performance, feature, or value leader in its class, with few shortfalls
- 3.5 - Good: Does what the product should do, and does so better than many competitors
- 3.0 - Average: Does what the product should do, and sits in the middle of the pack
- 2.5 - Fair: We have some reservations, buy with caution
- 2.0 - Subpar: We do not recommend, buy with extreme caution
- 1.5 - Poor: Do not buy this product
- 1.0 - Dismal: Don't even think about buying this product
Read Our Editorial Mission Statement and Testing Methodologies.
The Ring Alarm Security Kit is an affordable, easy-to-use DIY home security system that performs reliably and integrates well with the company's ecosystem.
Pros
- Affordable professional monitoring available
- Supports multiple wireless platforms
- Loud siren
- Easy to install
Cons
- Doesn't support IFTTT or HomeKit
- Bulky contact sensors
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- Ring Alarm 2nd Generation 5-Piece Kit — $199
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- Get the Best Prices On Home Security Systems — Download Our Free Price Comparison Tool $0
- RELATED:
- Best Indoor Security Cameras
- Best Outdoor Security Cameras
- Best Video Doorbells
- Best Floodlight Cameras
- Best Smart Locks
EDITORS' NOTE
August 17, 2026: With this update, our lineup of recommended smart home security systems remains unchanged. The existing picks have been vetted for currency and availability. Since our last update, we reviewed and evaluated one new security system for potential inclusion in this roundup. We currently have two security systems in PC Labs for evaluation, from ADT and Ikea.
- Affordable, well-designed hardware
- No monitoring or contract required
- Diverse monitoring options, including real-time crime intervention
- Easy, free DIY setup or optional paid professional installation
- Cellular and Wi-Fi connectivity, the latter of which is optional for privacy
- Very limited integration with other smart home devices
Ease of use, affordability, and flexible configuration and monitoring options make the SimpliSafe Home Security System our top choice for DIY security. SimpliSafe offers preconfigured packages for homes of all sizes, and its components can be purchased separately to create your own package or expand an existing one. Additionally, it provides professional installation and monitoring at a reasonable cost if needed.
DIY fans: If you’re looking to save a bundle on home security components, installation, and monitoring, put the SimpliSafe Home Security System at the top of your list. It’s incredibly easy to install and configure.
The contract-phobic: With the SimpliSafe Home Security System, you can switch between self-monitoring and a 24/7 professional option without worrying about a contract.
- Sharp 1080p camera
- Works with numerous third-party devices
- Alexa, Google Assistant, HomeKit, and IFTTT support
- Local storage
- On-demand professional monitoring available
- Easy to install
- Some components can be pricey
- No free cloud storage
Aptly named, the Abode iota All-In-One Security Kit uses a base station with a built-in camera and motion sensor. It features Wi-Fi, Z-Wave, and Zigbee radios, allowing you to integrate a wide range of third-party devices, including door locks, sirens, and lights, in addition to Abode’s first-party lineup of entry, water, and glass-break sensors. It offers on-demand professional monitoring and supports Apple HomeKit, Alexa, Google Assistant, and IFTTT, making it one of the most versatile home security systems available.
Smart home security newbies: The Abode iota All-In-One Security Kit provides an excellent starting point for anyone looking to add a DIY smart security system to their home or apartment. It’s easy to install, extremely expandable thanks to extensive support for third-party devices, and compatible with nearly every home automation platform on the market.
People who want an all-in-one solution: Many security services focus on cameras and entry sensors, but the Abode supports water and carbon monoxide sensors, and smoke alarms, too.
Apple fans: Many home security systems are compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant, but support for HomeKit is less common. If you use Apple's home automation platform, the Abode iota All-In-One Security Kit will fit right in.
- Speedy event response
- Offers remote control of door locks, cameras, thermostats, and sensors
- Responsive touch screen
- Supports Alexa and Google voice commands
- No lengthy contract required
- Requires a monthly subscription for remote access
- Some components can be pricey
The Vivint Smart Home security system is a comprehensive option that provides 24/7 monitoring and full control over door locks, cameras, thermostats, and lights. You can even monitor your car while it is on the road. This pricey system delivered speedy emergency response times during testing and is easy to control via a colorful 7-inch touch-screen video panel, a mobile companion app, or Alexa and Google Assistant voice commands.
Hands-off homeowners: The Vivint Smart Home security system is ideal for homeowners who need a professionally monitored system and don’t want to handle installation. A trained professional installs every component, including the handy touch-screen video control panel, and the company provides excellent telephone and in-home technical support.
Those who need professional monitoring: Vivint offers 24/7 remote monitoring, providing peace of mind, especially for individuals who are often away from home.
- Built-in Wi-Fi 6 mesh router
- Excellent power and internet backup solutions
- Supports Alexa voice control
- Works with lots of Ring and third-party devices
- Lacks Google Assistant, HomeKit, and IFTTT support
- Some features require a subscription
The Ring Alarm Pro is a hybrid DIY home security system that doubles as a Wi-Fi 6 mesh router. It earns high marks for its easy setup, reasonably priced monitoring options, and ability to bring Wi-Fi 6 connectivity to every corner of your home. It features an auxiliary battery that enables continuous operation for up to 24 hours and a cellular radio for internet connectivity in the event of a power outage. Moreover, PCMag readers tell us they love Ring's smart home security products more than any other brand.
People looking to improve Wi-Fi connectivity: If you’re in the market for a smart home security system and want to upgrade your home network to Wi-Fi 6 at the same time, the Ring Alarm Pro accomplishes both tasks. It features a built-in Eero 6 router that can be paired with satellite nodes to provide Wi-Fi 6 coverage for homes of all sizes. You can customize this versatile system with a variety of sensors, and it's compatible with all of Ring’s video doorbells, cameras, and lighting devices.
Ring users: This system only makes sense if you already have Ring devices or are willing to invest in them for any future cameras, doorbells, or other smart home products you may want to add to your setup.
- Tight integration with Google Nest, Yale devices
- DIY or professional installation
- Helpful Trusted Neighbor service
- Z-Wave compatible
- Requires 24/7 monitoring plan
- Some add-on components are pricey
The ADT Front Door Protection Security System provides everything you need to monitor and protect your home from intruders and porch pirates, while also allowing you to grant access to trusted individuals, such as contractors, family, and friends. The system is highly customizable and integrates seamlessly with Google Nest, Yale, and Z-Wave devices. ADT offers a range of starter packages, and compatible components can be added later if your needs change. While the system is easy to install yourself, you can also opt for professional installation if you prefer.
Google users who don't mind a subscription: This smart home security system is a solid choice if you already use the Google Home platform and are willing to pay for the obligatory 24/7 professional monitoring.
Frequent travelers or hosts: This system works with ADT's Trusted Neighbor service, which allows you to grant access to your home to friends, neighbors, and workers through the ADT+ mobile app. You can even set up Familiar Faces, so your front door automatically unlocks when a trusted person arrives.
- Integrates with all Arlo doorbells and cameras
- Uses multifunction sensors
- Works with IFTTT
- Supports voice controls
- No-contract professional monitoring
- Easy to install and manage
- Cellular and battery backup capabilities cost extra
- No Z-Wave connectivity
The Arlo Home Security System works seamlessly with the company’s full lineup of smart home devices, as well as many third-party products via IFTTT. It gives you the option to keep an eye on your property yourself or pay for a 24/7 monitoring plan that unlocks many emergency response options and a suite of family safety features via the separate Arlo Safe app. We really like the system’s multifunction sensors that can detect motion, water leaks, ambient lighting, and more, though we wish the hub included battery backup and cellular capabilities (those features require an add-on).
Existing Arlo users: If you already own or are planning to buy Arlo smart home devices, this is the security system to get.
Homeowners who need a variety of sensors: Arlo's multifunction sensors are advantageous if your home is prone to environmental issues, such as water leaks or freezing temperatures. The sensors also react to the sound of a smoke or CO alarm.
- Local video storage
- Dual-band Wi-Fi with cellular internet backup
- Works with most Eufy cameras and doorbells
- Supports Amazon Alexa and Google Home integrations
- Battery backup
- Professional monitoring not yet available
- Data plan required for cellular backup
The Eufy ExpertSecure System E10 pairs the company’s cameras with a base station and an assortment of sensors to help you monitor your home. It’s compatible with most of Eufy’s indoor and outdoor cameras, video doorbells, and smart locks, and it offers up to 16TB of local storage, AI-powered search and object detection, dual-band Wi-Fi, cellular backup, and battery backup. It's easy to set up, and all components worked well in testing, providing instant motion alerts and reliable geofencing.
Existing Eufy users: If you already use Eufy cameras, smart locks, smoke detectors, or sirens, you can easily connect them with the ExpertSecure E10 system and control everything from the same app.
Subscription avoiders: The S1 base station included with the Eufy ExpertSecure System E10 supports up to 16TB of local storage, so you don't need to pay cloud fees to access recorded footage. For now, the ExpertSecure E10 is strictly a self-monitored system, which means you’ll have to alert authorities in the event of a break-in, fire, or other emergency. That said, Eufy will offer professional monitoring options in the near future
- Affordable professional monitoring available
- Supports multiple wireless platforms
- Loud siren
- Easy to install
- Doesn't support IFTTT or HomeKit
- Bulky contact sensors
The Ring Alarm Security Kit is an affordable five-piece DIY home security system that is expandable and offers professional monitoring at a reasonable price. It works with the entire Ring lineup of video doorbells, indoor and outdoor security cameras, and lights, as well as with many third-party Z-Wave and Zigbee smart devices, including door locks and smoke alarms. The system performed wonderfully in our tests and is easy to install. Add-on components are comparable in cost to those for SimpliSafe or Abode systems.
Existing Ring households: The Ring Alarm Security Kit is a smart choice if you already own one or more Ring devices, such as doorbells, cameras, or lights. You can choose to self-monitor via the Ring mobile app or subscribe to a Ring Home plan that unlocks 24/7 professional monitoring and unlimited cloud video storage for your Ring cameras.
The Best Smart Home Security Systems for 2026 Compare Specs
What Is a Security System and How Does It Work?
A smart home security system connects to your Wi-Fi network, allowing you to monitor and control your security devices via an app. There are many different systems available across a wide range of prices. Depending on your needs, you can go with a system that you monitor yourself or pay a subscription fee to have professionals surveil your home 24/7 and contact your local fire or police departments when an alarm triggers. You can even take advantage of on-demand monitoring services when you're away on vacation. Of course, the more coverage you have, the more you should expect to pay.
Entry-level systems cost the least and usually include some door and window sensors, a motion detector, and a hub that communicates with these devices via one or more wireless protocols such as Wi-Fi, Z-Wave, Zigbee, or a proprietary mesh network. (Matter is another standard to keep an eye on. It has launched, and products are arriving slowly.) You can add extra door, motion, and window sensors to provide coverage for your entire house and build a comprehensive system that includes door locks, garage door openers, indoor and outdoor surveillance cameras, lights, sirens, smoke and CO detectors, water sensors, and more.
A word about wireless protocols before we go further: In a perfect world, all home security components would use the same wireless standard to communicate with the main hub, but factors such as power requirements, signal range, price, and size make it virtually impossible to settle on just one. For example, smaller components such as door and window sensors typically use Z-Wave or Zigbee technology because they don't require a lot of power and can run on smaller batteries. They also operate in a mesh topology and can help extend the range of networked devices. However, neither protocol provides the bandwidth you get with Wi-Fi, which security cameras rely on for smooth video streaming, for instance. Moreover, a hub connects and controls Z-Wave and Zigbee devices, whereas you can control Wi-Fi devices on your home network from an app. Finally, Z-Wave and Zigbee devices use AES 128 encryption and operate in a closed system with a dedicated hub, making them more secure than Wi-Fi devices.
Any smart security system worth its salt offers components that work together seamlessly and adhere to custom rules. For example, you can create rules to have the lights turn on when a sensor detects motion, have your doors unlock when a smoke alarm goes off, or set a camera to begin recording when a sensor triggers. Some systems store recordings locally on an SD card or a solid-state drive, whereas others offer cloud storage. Local video storage is a good choice for do-it-yourselfers on a budget, but you have to be careful not to overwrite video you might need later. Cloud storage makes it easy to house and access videos, but it can cost hundreds of dollars per year, depending on your subscription. Some systems offer both cloud and local storage, and some provide a dedicated storage drive that offers DVR capabilities with time-lapse recording, making it easy to find a video of an event that took place at a specific time.
All of the systems we've tested feature an app that lets you use your smartphone as your command center to arm and disarm the system, create rules, add or remove components, and receive push notifications when alarms are triggered. Most apps also allow you to view live and recorded video, lock and unlock doors, change thermostat settings, and silence alarms. Some apps even use your phone's location services to automatically arm and disarm the system based on your physical location. The more expensive systems usually come with a wall-mounted panel that serves as a communications hub, featuring a touch-screen display that lets you do everything the app does. The display lets you communicate with a professional monitoring service when an alarm goes off and view video from any installed security camera.
DIY vs. Professionally Installed Home Security Systems
Do-it-yourself security setups are ideal for budget shoppers because they can save you a bundle on installation charges and subscription fees. Most DIY systems are easy to install and are available as kits that you can configure to suit your needs. As your needs change, you can order additional sensors and other components at your convenience and pair them with the system within minutes.
A basic, entry-level DIY system might support only one or two wireless protocols and usually offers a limited selection of add-on components. In contrast, more expensive DIY systems support multiple wireless protocols and are compatible with dozens of add-on components. Some DIY systems are self-monitored: You still receive alerts when devices trigger, but it's up to you to contact the local authorities if there's a break-in or a fire. That said, DIY vendors are increasingly offering professional monitoring services. If you're leaning toward the DIY route, check out our story on building a home security system.
Although many systems use wireless components that you install with double-sided tape, some high-end systems require professional installation. These soup-to-nuts systems typically cost considerably more than DIY systems, and most offer 24/7 professional monitoring, but you may have to enter into a multi-year contract and pay a hefty termination fee if you break it. They usually use touch-screen hubs that contain RF, Wi-Fi, Zigbee, and Z-Wave radios, allowing them to communicate with and control a multitude of components, including door and window sensors, door locks, glass break detectors, indoor and outdoor cameras, light switches, motion and water detectors, smoke and CO alarms, thermostats, video doorbells, and a host of other home automation devices.
With a professional monitoring system, an agent will first try to reach you via the two-way control panel before calling your listed phone number if a smoke or intrusion alarm triggers. If you fail to respond, the agent calls 911 to dispatch an emergency responder to your home. The nice thing about professionally installed systems is you don't have to lift a finger; after you place your order, a technician comes to your home, sets everything up for you, and shows you how the system works. It's important to note that in some areas, you may need to obtain a permit to install a security system in your home.
Nearly all of the latest DIY and high-end home security systems offer support for voice control via Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and, in some cases, Siri. Those voice assistants let you unlock doors, change thermostat settings, open the garage, and arm or disarm your system with a simple command to a connected device, such as a smart speaker. If you want to stick with Alexa for your smart home security system, make sure to check out our setup guide. Many systems also support IFTTT applets, allowing you to configure a floodlight to turn on when your garage door opens (or similar).
Should I Get Professional Monitoring?
Whether you go with a DIY system or a professionally installed one, you have to pay a monthly or annual monitoring fee, and in some cases, you also need to pay a monthly fee to offset hardware costs. With most DIY systems, such as the SimpliSafe Home Security Kit and the Ring Alarm Security Kit, you purchase the hardware outright and can avoid any monthly fees if you decide to self-monitor. If you add monitoring, fees vary. SimpliSafe, for instance, charges $20 per month for its no-contract monitoring service.
Monitoring for professionally installed systems tends to be more expensive. We detail these prices in each of our reviews.
What Is the Best Affordable Home Security Camera System?
If you live in a small apartment and want to keep tabs on things when you're not home, a security camera can get the job done for a lot less money than a full security system. Nearly all standalone security cameras connect to your home's Wi-Fi so you can see what's going on from your phone or tablet. Most also have built-in sensors that can detect motion or sound and subsequently send you notifications about those events. You can usually tweak the camera's motion sensitivity to prevent false alarms from pet activity or passing cars when the camera is near a window, and create a schedule that turns the sensors on or off during certain hours of the day.
Some of the more expensive cameras feature humidity and temperature sensors and interact with other connected home devices, such as thermostats and smart lighting systems. If you want to save some money and avoid a monthly fee, look for a camera with an SD card slot that lets you record video when motion or sound triggers; just remember to back up your recordings every so often before the camera overwrites them. Alternatively, look for a camera that offers a cloud storage plan.
An outdoor camera is ideal for keeping an eye on what's happening outside of your home. These devices are weatherproof and typically require a nearby ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlet to supply power, although a handful of battery-powered models are also available. As with their indoor counterparts, outdoor cameras connect to your Wi-Fi network and let you view live video on your phone. They are fairly easy to install, but if you're not familiar or comfortable with electrical wiring, you may want to hire a professional electrician for the setup.
Most outdoor cameras offer motion detection with push and email notifications, night vision, and cloud storage for event-triggered video. Some pull double duty as floodlights or porch lights. Other models can even distinguish between a passing car, an animal, and a person. Look for an outdoor camera that integrates with other smart home devices, such as garage door openers, external sirens, and smart switches.
What Is the Best Video Doorbell?
Video doorbells offer an easy way to see who is on your front steps without opening the door or even getting close. These devices connect to your Wi-Fi network and send an alert when someone approaches your doorway. They record video when someone presses the doorbell or detects motion, and they usually offer two-way audio so you can speak with the visitor remotely from your phone.
Most video doorbells use your existing doorbell wiring (two low-voltage wires) and are fairly easy to install, but battery-powered models install in minutes. Some work with other smart devices, such as door locks and sirens, and support Alexa voice commands and IFTTT.
Look for a model that offers high resolution (1080p), a wide-angle lens (140 to 180 degrees), night vision up to 30 feet, and affordable cloud storage for recordings. Sometimes, it's helpful to see what happened just before or after a visitor approaches your door. For that, you need a doorbell that uses pre-buffering to record the action that occurs before someone presses a doorbell or sets off the motion sensor.
Are Smart Locks Worth the Money?
A smart lock is typically part of a robust smart home security setup, but you don't have to invest in a full-blown system to use one. If you use a home automation hub to control things like lighting and thermostats, you can add a Z-Wave or Zigbee smart lock to the system without much effort. Alternatively, if you don't have a home automation hub, look for a Wi-Fi or Bluetooth lock that comes with a mobile app. Smart locks use standard pre-drilled holes and are fairly easy to install. Some models use your existing keyed cylinder and deadbolt hardware to attach to the inside of your door. In contrast, others require you to remove your existing interior and exterior escutcheons and replace the deadbolt and strike hardware.
You can open or close smart locks via a mobile app, and most models can notify you when someone locks or unlocks a door. Many smart locks even allow you to create permanent and temporary access schedules for family members and friends based on specific hours and days of the week. Features to look for include geofencing (uses your phone's location services to lock and unlock the door), voice activation (via Alexa, Google Assistant, or Siri), support for IFTTT, and the ability to integrate with other smart home devices.
Plenty of smart lock models are available, including keyless, no-touch locks; touch-screen locks; combination, keyed, and touchpad locks; and locks you can open with a biometric fingerprint reader.
We also have a beginner's guide to setting up a smart home if you want to do more than just secure your property.
Homeowners Insurance Discounts With Security Systems
Depending on your provider, you might be eligible for a discount on your home insurance if you have a home security system or other protective devices, such as monitored smoke detectors or a sprinkler system. Allstate, Progressive, and State Farm are just a few insurance providers that acknowledge such discounts.
"While the home security insurance discount you might receive for installing a security system won’t cover the cost of the system itself, the peace of mind and sense of protection for you and your family may be worth it in addition to any future savings you may also incur," according to Progressive.
Discounts vary by company, so be sure to contact your home insurance agent to learn how you can lower your rates and to see if you qualify.
Can You Hack a Home Security System?
Like any product that connects to the internet and uses wireless technology, smart home security systems (particularly those that lack encryption) are vulnerable to hacking. Hackers can sit outside your home and use a laptop and software to intercept wireless signals from your system, thereby suppressing alarms and disabling sensors. Other devices allow hackers to generate radio noise that can jam communications between the sensors and the hub.
Additionally, malicious actors can hack devices that connect via Wi-Fi, such as security cameras and smart door locks, to gain access to your home network. A skilled hacker can then use your Wi-Fi devices and other network resources to carry out Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks against larger networks. Perhaps even more disturbing is the idea of some stranger monitoring video from your indoor and outdoor security cameras.
You can take several steps to make sure your home security system is safe from cyber intruders. For starters, you can replace the system's default password with a unique one that contains a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols. If possible, change your password from time to time. Additionally, make sure your home network is secure. Check the security settings on your wireless router and consider models that add an extra layer of software protection.
Some security system vendors use frequency hopping technology to prevent signal jamming, whereas others use embedded encryption. Neither feature is standard; check with the manufacturer if you require an extra layer of security.
In addition, keep an eye on your camera access logs. If you notice camera activity at odd hours or at times when you know nobody is at home, it may indicate a system compromise. Finally, make sure your system software and all of your connected devices are up to date. Firmware updates often address security issues and can help protect your system from infiltration.
