A Beginner's Guide to Smart Home Security

 

Apartment Security

 

Chances are, you are looking for a way to make your home security smarter and more convenient without digging too deep into your pocket. You want to have cutting-edge gear including smart bulbs, security cameras, and sensors as part of your smart home security interface. While it might be considered an overkill, these deliver the convenience of high-end smart security, thus ensuring you have custom home security solutions.

 

What Makes a Security System Smart?

A smart security system goes beyond just sounding an alert if there are intruders at your home. This system utilizes Wi-Fi networks to connect all the devices on site. Consequently, your security system becomes more integrated, which is both more convenient and secure.

 

Types of Smart Home Security Packages Available

 

Smart Home Automation

This home security package requires that you incorporate smart tech to help with keeping your family safe. You can have a simple setup like security lights with sensors that go on when there is movement. Additional smart home automation devices would be video doorbells that record anyone that steps in front of them. You can also include spotlight cameras which will record video clips and light up all the surrounding areas the moment there is movement. The latter is particularly effective for catching intruders or stopping a stray animal from accessing your property.

 

Security Equipment

Traditional home security devices fall under this category. As the homeowner, you will be looking to take care of the risk of intrusion or vandalism. As such, you will have security cameras, burglar alarms and glass break detectors installed.

 

Environmental Monitoring

This setup involves equipment that detects anomalies in the immediate environment of your home. You will have to install equipment such as smoke alarms, leak detectors, and pipe freeze detectors. This category of devices is best for older homes that might have undetected issues.

 

Different Relay Systems Available

The different smart home security options available have different means to relay information back to you. These include:

 

Landline Security Systems

Setups under the landline security system use home phone connections to link and monitor the different devices within the security system. This system has been phased out as it is easy to tamper with, and remote locations often have interrupted cell reception.

 

Broadband Security Systems

This type of security system connects to a professional monitoring center via the home owner's internet connection. Unfortunately, the moment your home internet network goes off, your cameras are rendered obsolete. Still, the broadband security systems are harder to tamper with. Additionally, it is easy for you to self-monitor your security system.

 

Cellular Services

Cellular services are more on the pricey side of smart home security systems. While you do not have to deal with hardwiring and periodic power outages, you will need a professional to monitor the system and the supporting cellular connection.

 

What to Look for in Smart Home Security Systems

 

Home Security Features

Before installing a smart home security system, you first want to determine what security features you want. For instance, you might want a nanny cam to monitor what goes on within the home when you are not around. You might also want features that enable you to communicate with the people within the house remotely. Additional features to look out for would be if the devices support wireless connections.

 

Mobile Support Availability

As you shop for a smart home security system, you want to find one that supports mobile apps across different operating systems. The application helps you stay connected even when you are away. A mobile app introduces an additional layer of convenience and safety as you can automate the whole security setup.

 

Cloud Storage for Videos and Images

Having an IP camera cloud storage system means you have an off-site storage database that is not prone to deletion. Fortunately, this backup offers you an extra level of protection.

 

Push Alerts and Notifications

A reliable smart home security system should support wireless communication. This includes having an integrated modern alarm system that can send instant push notifications the moment an anomaly is noticed.

 

Professional vs Self-installation

As highlighted, smart home security has become increasingly popular in the recent past. While installing some of these technologies is easy, a professionally installed system stands to provide greater service.

As such, consider talking to your home security company, particularly pertaining to what features you will be seeking. While you might assume that the system you want to have installed does not have enough bells and whistles to warrant professional help, it would be prudent to let a professional guide you through the right-sized security package and the add-ons you might want incorporated.

The allure of smart home security is getting stronger, especially with the rise of cybersecurity threats. Consider the tips mentioned above for a smart home security setup as you look for apartments to rent in Boston.