Smart devices have made it into just about every corner of modern life, but what about your home security system? Odds are good that you've already got light bulbs and possibly even thermostats that you can control from your phone, but pairing your security system can provide many benefits that extend beyond simple conveniences. Many new security system installations feature smart home features, but if you're currently using an old-style system then it may be time to consider the advantages that can come with an upgrade.
Understanding the Smart Home Ecosystem
Before you can understand the benefits that come from having a smart home security system, it's first important to understand exactly what's meant by "smart." Unsurprisingly, this mostly comes down to integration with your home's network and the other smart systems in your home. This means that your security system can have a variety of additional features as it can be linked in to other home automation devices.
Increased Integration Means Increased Coverage
Although security systems will vary from company to company and between pricing tiers, smart systems generally provide the option for more than just basic security protection. In addition to protecting your home from break-ins, your system can also monitor other sensors in your home. For many basic or slightly upgraded packages, this includes equipment such as carbon monoxide detectors and smoke detectors. Since your smart system is all linked together, you'll be able to view the status of these sensors on your phone or other smart devices.
You'll Be Able to Stay Up-to-Date
Devices linked to your network are also linked to the internet, and this means that they can be updated in real time by your security company. If a device has a known vulnerability or other software issue, it can be patched remotely. Often, these updates are done automatically and you won't even be aware that anything has changed. Even better, many companies update their devices with additional features, so your system can actually evolve over time.
You'll Also Be Able to Stay Informed
One of the primary advantages of any smart system is that you can link its functionality to your phone. This means that not only will you be able to monitor the system from within your house, but you'll be able to receive status updates on the go as well. This is more than just a convenience, however. By receiving updates and monitoring sensors from your phone, you'll be able to make informed decisions about any possible problems that much more quickly. If an alarm is triggered, you'll be able to check on the status of your whole system to determine if the security company should contact emergency services.
While smart systems can be a costly upgrade, their benefits are worth it for many homeowners. If you're still getting by with an old, unconnected system, it's a good idea to schedule a consultation with a smart alarm company to see if an upgrade might be a good decision for you.
