What Is AT&T Internet Air? And How to Get It
AT&T Internet Air is a wireless, 5G internet service that can provide reliable speeds with simple, affordable pricing. The service is currently available in limited markets.
What Is a Smart Home Security System?
Smart home security systems boost security by connecting a home to the internet, and to you, through the use of wireless technology, which includes sensors, cameras, detectors, cameras and more. Smart home security systems are essentially the wireless, “smart” version of a traditional, wired home security system, which makes them more convenient, customizable and even more secure.
Table of Contents
- What Is a Smart Home Security System?
- Smart Home Security Systems vs. Traditional Security Systems
- Smart Home Security System Devices
- DIY vs. Professional Install Smart Home Security Systems
- Best Smart Home Security Systems Providers in 2022
- FAQ
Summary
Smart home security systems use wireless security technology to connect your home to the internet, and to you when you are away. Smart home security systems come in a variety of packages, including DIY kits, professionally installed plans and build-your-own setups. Depending on how comfortable you are with smart home technology, you can opt to set up your own system, or leave it to the professionals. There are systems for homes, apartments and more, meaning everyone who wants a smart home security system should be able to find one that aligns with their home situation and budget.
What Is a Smart Home Security System?
A smart home security keeps your home online and automated, bolstering security while doing it. A typical smart home security system features a network of devices connected via Wi-Fi or Z-Wave that communicate wirelessly and can be controlled remotely. These devices, including sensors, doorbells, detectors, locks, thermostats, lights and cameras, work to automate home processes and give you peace of mind and convenience, all in one package.
Note that different devices may require different control configurations based on the technology involved. For example, detectors and light bulbs require less power than cameras, meaning they can be controlled by Z-Wave signals, as they do not use much power. Cameras are typically connected via Wi-Fi to your system because they need a stronger signal.
This is why it’s often a good idea to opt for a professionally installed smart home security system, like from ADT, rather than build your own. ADT systems also offer perks like 24/7 professional monitoring that DIY kits can’t really contend with. You don’t want any of the devices you buy to be incompatible with one another! Of course, the DIY route is still a viable option if you are tech-savvy and know how to properly put together your smart home puzzle.
Smart Home Security System Devices
There are many different smart home security system devices to choose from and add to your security arsenal. You can even add home automation devices to your smart home security system with a professionally installed or DIY setup.
Smart video doorbells
Monitor your door with a smart doorbell that features video and speaker functionalities
Smart video cameras
Capture footage of important indoor and outdoor areas in real time, and keep footage in cloud storage
Sensors
Place on or near doors and windows to detect movement
Detectors
Detect smoke, carbon monoxide and more and send notifications directly to your phone and authorities
Smart door locks
Arm your doors with security codes and create custom codes for trusted users
Smart lightbulbs
Create customized atmospheres and control your lights from anywhere
Smart thermostats
Save money on utilities expenses with a smart thermostat that adjusts your home’s environment
Smart vacuums
Make cleaning a bit easier by employing a robot assistant
Let's Find Your Perfect Internet and TV Plan. Compare, Buy and Save.
Step 1 of
Please Wait ...
DIY vs Professional Install Smart Home Security Systems
Choosing a DIY system versus a professionally installed smart home security system boils down to your comfort working with technology in order to save some upfront money. When it comes to something as important as keeping your family and home protected, you will want to be sure you know what you’re doing. If you’re tech-savvy and want to take security matters in your own hands, you can buy a DIY kit from a top brand – like Frontpoint, SimpliSafe or Ring – and set up your system yourself.
If you want to leave it the professionals, opt for a professional installation from a brand like ADT or Vivint. These brands are the experts in home protection and offer modern smart home technologies, and will demonstrate how to use all the devices properly. Other DIY security providers like SimpliSafe even offer professional installation for a fee.
DIY Smart Home Security Systems
| Popular DIY Security Systems | Upfront Costs (starting at) | Recurring Costs (starting at) | Smart Devices Available | Best Perk |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Frontpoint | $99 for build-your-own package, $129 for base package | As low as $3.19/mo. | Door/window sensors, motion sensors, glass break sensors, smoke/heat/carbon monoxide detectors, indoor/outdoor cameras, video doorbells, door locks, plugs, thermostats | Easy setup, control your whole setup and manage alerts with Frontpoint app |
| SimpliSafe | $195.97 (w/ interactive monitoring) | Starts at 93 cents per day monitoring | Base station, video doorbells, keypad, entry sensors, motion sensors, indoor/outdoor cameras, panic button, sirens, key fob, temperature/glass break/water sensors | No contracts, easy setup |
| Ring | $199.99 | $3/mo. for Ring Basic plan | Video doorbells, cameras, lighting | Stick Up Cam 30% off when purchasing Video Doorbell |
DIY Smart Home Security Systems Pros and Cons
Pros
- Simple installation
- Easy customization
- Mix and match smart devices
- Take devices with you
Cons
- Monitoring costs are typically extra
- Need to be somewhat tech-savvy to set them up properly
- Upfront costs can be steep for some people
Professionally Installed Smart Home Security Systems
| Popular Professionally Installed Smart Home Security Systems | Upfront Costs (starting at) | Recurring Costs (starting at) | Devices Available | Best Perk |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ADT | Starts at 47 cents per day (ADT Smart Home) | $49.99 for pro monitoring (ADT Smart Home) | Touchscreen panel, mobile app, remote arm/disarm, door/window sensors, motion detector, door locks, cameras available with Video & Smart Home package | Free Google Nest Doorbell and Outdoor Camera with qualifying purchase |
| Vivint | Starter package available, call National Broadband to learn more | Starter package with monitoring information available when you call | 24/7 monitoring, mobile app, intrusion detection, touchscreen panel, video in premium packages | Professional installation with $0 activation |
Professionally Installed Smart Home Security Systems Pros and Cons
Pros
- 24/7 professional monitoring
- Peace of mind knowing system was installed and is monitored by experienced professionals
- Tons of mix and match smart devices available
Cons
- Can be very pricey
- Not as flexible as DIY systems
- Lengthy contracts
Best Smart Home Security Systems Providers
| Provider | DIY or Pro Install | Upfront Costs (starting at) | Recurring Costs (starting at) | Contract |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ADT | Pro install | Starts at 47 cents per day (ADT Smart Home) | $49.99/mo. for pro monitoring (ADT Smart Home) | 36 months |
| Vivint | Pro install | Call for more info | Call for more info | 42-60 months |
| Frontpoint | DIY | $99 for build-your-own package, $129 for base package | As low as $3.19/mo. | Month-to-month |
| SimpliSafe | DIY | $195.97 (w/ interactive monitoring) | 93 cents per day monitoring | Month-to-month |
| Ring | DIY | $199.99 | $3/mo. for Ring Basic plan | Month-to-month |
Frequently asked questions
What are the best smart home security providers in 2023?
Top smart home security system brands include ADT, Frontpoint, Vivint, SimpliSafe and Ring.
What is the difference between a DIY and professionally installed home security system?
Customers are responsible for setting up their own system when they choose a DIY package. With a professionally installed system, a technician will come to your home to set up your system. They will also demonstrate how it works and how to make the most out of your technology. Both DIY and pro-install packages have professional monitoring plans.
Where can I learn more about smart home security systems?
National Broadband has home security experts who can answer questions and even sign you up with a smart home security provider, including ADT, Vivint and Frontpoint.
