The definition of a smart security system isn’t well-standardized yet, but it generally means the system includes components with some type of network connectivity. This network is typically the internet in the case of home systems, although it could be a private network.
The communication protocols most commonly used by smart security systems include Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. Both allow you to remotely perform functions with a variety of devices like a computer, phone or tablet. Many smart security systems also include a separate system console that’s installed in the home.
In addition to security, smart security systems may provide you with the ability to control other functions such as lighting, temperature, safety, and entertainment. This is usually the case when the smart security system is an integrated component of a smart home, rather than a standalone system.
6 Benefits of Smart Security Systems
The benefits of a smart security system over a traditional home security system may be classified into the following areas:
- Alarm systems
- Premise automation
- Internet-based monitoring
- Speakers
- Utility bills
- Environment
1. Alarm Systems
The alarms for smart security systems automatically alert a monitoring station that’s staffed 24 hours a day, seven days a week. These staff members receive information such as the nature of the alarm, allowing them to dispatch appropriate personnel such as firefighters or police.
An alarm system is part of any smart security system due to its ability to deter crime and lessen its severity when it does occur. Insurance companies have long recognized the effectiveness of alarms by reducing the premiums of policyholders who have systems installed in their homes.
For example, the Insurance Information Institute has calculated that the reduction in insurance premiums for homeowners with a comprehensive alarm system is between 15 and 20 percent.
Furthermore, the Electronic Security Association (ESA) reported in 2015 that the cost of a break-in was 39 percent less for homeowners with a security system, resulting in an average savings of over $2,000.
2. Premise Automation
Premise automation is one of the key characteristics that distinguish a smart security system from a traditional security system.
This feature includes a variety of specific capabilities that help you to manage your home remotely.
A video doorbell is a standard component of premise automation due to its convenience and frequency of use. It primarily consists of a camera that lets you identify a person at the door from another part of the house or from a remote location. Most are equipped with a two-way communication system enabling you to talk to the person, whether they’re invited or not.
Additional Features of Premise Automation
Other features offered through premise automation include the ability to control locks, which is a vital security measure since about 30 percent of home burglars gain entry through unlocked doors and windows.
Turning lights on and off is another security feature of premise automation that also helps save energy. Premise automation includes controlling devices such as thermostats and appliances, which is both a convenience and an energy-saving measure.
3. Internet-Based Monitoring
The ability to monitor a home over the internet is one of the biggest benefits of smart security systems.
In addition to the convenience of viewing the home from any location, internet-based monitoring has no wires to cut. This advantage greatly reduces vulnerability to physical attacks when compared to traditional security systems.
The benefit of wireless monitoring is important because about 20 percent of burglars cut the wires to the alarm system during a break-in, according to a 2012 study by the University of North Carolina.
Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) Cameras
Smart security systems allow you to view any of its CCTV cameras in real time. These cameras serve as a deterrence to break-ins and make it easier for police to identify, locate and apprehend suspects.
CCTV cameras may be located inside and outside the home, depending on the specific model. Exterior cameras may be limited to the front door in the case of a garden home, but homeowners with large properties like a ranch may need to install several exterior cameras.
4. Speakers
Smart speakers like Amazon’s Echo or Google’s Home are a feature that’s unique to smart security systems.
These speakers can be seamlessly connected to a security system, enabling you the power to control the system by voice. Many homeowners love being able to lock and unlock doors without the need for a mobile device.
5. Utility Bills
Having the capability to turn lights on and off remotely can reduce utility bills significantly without sacrificing security. This is especially true if you frequently travel.
It’s easy enough to simply leave some lights on when going on vacation, but this strategy is highly wasteful of electricity. Placing lights on a timer is a more effective method of giving the impression that someone is home while saving energy, but it still creates a predictable pattern that burglars can easily recognize.
Automatically programming lighting controls as part of a smart security system is the optimal solution for energy-efficiency and home security.
6. Environment
Although home security is closely associated with protection from burglaries, it also includes protection from environmental hazards.
Fire is one of the most common of these hazards, yet the detection of gases is becoming an increasingly important part of home security as well. Carbon monoxide is particularly hazardous because it’s odorless and lethal in small concentrations.
Smart security systems often include CO2 and fire monitoring, which offers automatic protection for you and your family.
Gain Control With A Smart aSecurity System
According to data from the FBI’s 2015 Uniform Crime Reporting Statistics, a burglary occurs in the United States every 13 seconds.
This makes security a vital part of home ownership.
The primary advantage of smart security systems over traditional systems is the ability to monitor and control home security functions remotely. These capabilities greatly increase the convenience of home security because you are now able to perform security functions from a mobile device.
