Smart home security is an investment in your home, your family, and your safety. These devices equip you for surveillance at the touch of a button. Despite their recent advancements, as part of the larger smart home movement, there are factors that could dictate whether the technology is compatible with your home and security needs.
Here are six things to consider before investing in smart home security.
1. Compatible Mobile Devices
The entire point of smart products is to make them easy to use and connected to the mini-computer in your pocket. So if a device doesn’t work with your phone, that technology isn’t very useful.
Fortunately, most smart home security manufacturers are designing software that works with popular smartphone operating systems, such as iOS and Android. Take a look at the specs for the product you’re considering and find out which mobile devices are compatible with it.
Still, just because there’s an app available doesn’t mean it works well, and it’s hard to tell until after you buy the product. Combat this by reading reviews for how security tech works on your mobile device.
2. How Many Devices You’ll Need
To choose how many devices are necessary to secure your house, you’ll need to look at it from all possible angles. Any unlocked window or door could be a vulnerable spot where a burglar could get inside your home. Home surveillance isn’t just for preventing burglaries, either. It can be used to mitigate other risks as well. Use your cameras to monitor your children and pets, keep an eye on house sitters, or even detect internal threats like house fires or flooding.
The size of your house, the number of windows and entrances, and the purposes of your surveillance can help determine how many devices you’ll need and where to place them.
3. Adequate Internet Connection and Speed
The superpower of smart home devices is their ability to be remote-controlled by a mobile device. Their kryptonite, on the other hand, is their reliance on your home’s internet connection.
Rural homeowners may find it difficult to keep smart security cameras working properly if their locale isn’t serviced with an adequate internet service. Meanwhile, power outages that knock out your Wi-Fi connection can impact everyone’s smart devices.
Run an Internet speed test and compare the results to what your desired smart home device requires. Be sure to also investigate if there are any backup measures in case of internet or power outages.
4. Self-monitoring vs. Professional Monitoring
The convenience of self-monitoring is a major perk for smart home security devices. Through mobile apps, you can receive alerts when motion is detected or notifications if you’ve left your house unlocked. You’re the master of monitoring with home security, which can either be a positive or a negative, depending on how independent and involved you want to be.
Professional monitoring companies, such as ADT and Vivint, are starting to offer smart home security as well. So if you’re looking for some guidance or technological support, there are options. Just be aware that this can come with added expenses and less flexibility, as companies tend to work with their preferred devices and installation protocols.
5. Features
Consider what you want your smart home camera to be able to do. Your surveillance goals may determine which features are non-negotiable and which ones are superfluous. Some key features to look out for include:
Night vision
Weatherproof
Recording capabilities
Facial recognition
Two-way communication
HD video
Understanding your purpose for surveillance can help you purchase the tech that closely aligns with your goals and meets your needs.
6. Personal and Public Privacy
When it comes to smart home security, privacy is an important part of the conversation. There are laws pertaining to security cameras that are important to know so your surveillance measures remain compliant. Ironically, you’ll also need to take security measures that protect your security system, too. Losing your mobile device, for instance, would eliminate the efficacy of your system.
Smart devices can also impact your personal privacy when manufacturers use your personal information for ad marketing and retargeting. Additionally, hackers are the greatest threat to smart home security devices, since they can use them as a bridge to the network where you access your email and bank accounts. Implementing cyber security best practices, such as using multi-factor authentication and secure passwords, can keep you guarded against information theft.
Prioritize Your Peace of Mind
Research is your friend when it comes to smart home security, and we hope these considerations get you started. With the right device, you can implement a system that works for your needs. Don’t settle for less. Prioritize your peace of mind and keep your home, your family, and your lifestyle safe.
