8 Essential Devices for a Home Security System You Can Count On
Put your Wi-Fi and mobile devices to work for you
Your home is your domain and your sanctuary—the place you should feel safest and most secure. When it comes to protecting your residence, family and belongings, your Wi-Fi connection and mobile devices have the power and the smarts to defend what matters most to you.
The Internet of Things has transformed home security. Tech companies such as Samsung, LG, Nest and Amazon are rapidly developing new and more advanced systems that integrate with mobile apps and residential wireless service. With a few taps, users can control locks and alarm systems, review security footage and monitor their homes while away.
If you’re curious about how to get started on an all-around home security system, here are 8 essentials to consider.
1. Smart Locks
Smart locks are controlled by your smartphone and allow keyless entry, locking and remote access. Features differ slightly by maker, but with many, you can program the locks to activate at a certain time, grant access to family and guests and, via an app, see who’s entered and exited. The Zwave smart lock allows multiple users with unique codes and remote locking from your device. They also interface with other security systems, including Honeywell’s Total Connect and Alarm.com.
2. Video Doorbells
Wired and wireless-enabled video doorbells can instantly tell you who’s outside your door. By pairing this with your phone, you can see live video and speak remotely to who is at your door, even when you’re not home. Video doorbells also interface with Total Connect and Alarm.com.
3. Outdoor Security Cameras
Outdoor cameras offer a wide view of your property in HD-video quality. You can view clips and footage on your phone or computer, and data is stored in the cloud. With night vision and wide-angle lenses, these cameras provide protection for your outdoor premises.
4. Indoor Monitoring Cameras
Smart home security systems detect motion around your home and can send video directly to your phone. Some can be integrated with voice assistants and others use AI to adapt to your usual habits so as not to send alerts prematurely.
5. Motion Sensors
Motion sensors are a good second line of defense across your property if an intruder attempts entry other than by door.
6. Door Contact Detectors
These are small devices that are installed on a door and can be armed to activate an alarm when the door is opened.
7. Smart Thermostats
You might not think of a smart thermostat as a “security” device, but these systems are a key tool in home automation and monitoring. Smart thermostats can make your home more energy efficient, and save on energy costs. Smart thermostats allow you to adjust your home’s temperature from your phone, even while you’re away. Some systems even send alerts when the temperature is low so you can avoid problems such as frozen pipes. Many models integrate with home security systems, as well.
8. Smart Light Bulbs
Smart bulbs, such as the Wyze bulb, can be programmed to turn on or off according to a pre-set time schedule. Not only are they cheap, but they’re effective. A light flipped on at a certain time of night makes your house appear occupied while you’re away—deterring a snooping criminal from your home.
Arvig provides home security and automation technology, including fire and break-in protection, video surveillance and 24/7 monitoring for immediate emergency assistance. Find out more here.
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