What to look for in a smart home security system

Investing in a smart home security system can be a great way to give your property the protection it needs. Whether you live in an apartment or a house or need a business security system, there are many factors to consider. But, with so many smart systems out there, it can be overwhelming to know where to begin your search; not just for the right products, but the right service as well. 

So, where to start? Check out this guide to help you understand what you should be looking for in a smart home security system.

What is a smart home security system?

A smart home security system integrates with your home’s Wi-FI in order to give you control of the system from your devices. In addition, some smart home security offerings work with other smart home technologies, like Amazon Alexa or Google Home, in order to provide additional home automation capabilities. For example, imagine saying “Alexa, Tell SimpliSafe to arm in away” as you leave your house and arm your home security system. A smart home security system can consist of everything from doorbell cameras and smart door locks, to indoor cameras and motion sensors. 

The Benefits of a smart home security system 

Implementing a smart alarm system has many benefits, especially if you’re comparing it to a hardwired system. These benefits include:

• Ease and convenience, from purchase to installation and use.

• Peace of mind with monitoring from any device.

• Ability to add or remove equipment and services as needed.

• Ability to customize your equipment in a way that best fits the security needs of your home.

• Get notified of security alerts, including fire, gas, and flood alerts.

• Check on your home when you’re far away, including looking after your children to make sure they’re safe at home.

• Deter crime and porch pirates, just by having a system visible.

• Often more affordable than legacy security systems and easy to choose a system based on your budget and needs.

How to find the right smart security system

Though smart home security systems have many advantages, you might find that you don’t need an entire set-up to get what you’re looking for out of the system. And, when evaluating which system or company is ideal for you, it’s important to know you're not being encouraged to buy anything that you don’t need right now.

So, before you start looking, it might be helpful to ask yourself these questions with the aim of narrowing down your search:

What’s the purpose of your security system?

Why are you considering investing in a smart home security system in the first place? Is it because you’re looking to stop people from stealing packages off your front porch, or you want a full-throttle system to protect your entire home? Or, something in between? Keep this in mind when searching for the best option. 

What’s your budget?

One great thing about smart home security systems is the ability to design them around your budget. If you understand the importance of investing in a system but you just don’t have a huge budget for it, you can talk to a security professional and let them know your needs and what you’re looking to spend. They can help you find the best blend of both works.

Do you want flexibility or a fixed contract?

Hardwired security systems often come with fixed contracts and are more expensive. But, one of the perks of a smart home security system is that it allows you to be flexible. You can pay for your equipment and add and remove more equipment as well as services, whenever it’s convenient for you (or, rather, no longer convenient!). 

Do you need help with installation?

One of the reasons that hardwired systems cost more money is because they require a professional to come to your home to connect the devices up to your home’s wiring. But, with a smart home security system, people are often able to install what they need to on their own, which can save time, money, and the stress of having to set aside a day for a technician visit. 

All this considered, if you still feel that you need help installing your smart home security system, most companies offer setup assistance as well. Start thinking about what would make you feel most comfortable, so you can see what works for your budget.

Do you want professional monitoring?

Some people might be hesitant about investing in a smart home security system because they’re concerned with the responsibility that comes with having to constantly monitor the system yourself. The alerts that you get on your device can feel like an extra reason to worry. 

But, the “smart” side of these systems means you can customize what would require an actual alert (versus a notification), when and how you get alerts, as well as who to alert in the event the system is triggered. And, just like having the flexibility to choose between DIY installation or professional installation, most smart home security companies offer professional monitoring, too. 

What to look for in a smart home security system

Once you understand what your answers are to the questions above—as well as what you may still need guidance with—you can begin your search. But, in addition to knowing what you’re looking for, how do you know that you’re choosing the right services to help you?

A smart home security system service should:

• Have different options for equipment and customization.

• Integrate with other smart home automation systems you use, like Google Home or Amazon Alexa.

• Offer professional monitoring and installation as an added service.

• Be able to guide you to choosing the best options for your needs.

• Offer solid, clear information on what you're getting with the service/equipment you choose.

• Guidance and support for using the system as well as easily accessible troubleshooting guides.

• Clear information regarding costs.

We understand that there are many home security providers to choose from, so visit SimpliSafe today to find the right smart security system for your home!