Once you make the decision to secure your property with a security system, the next step—finding the right solution—can leave you feeling confused and full of questions.
Can I do it myself? Am I getting the right level of security? What’s the latest technology out there?
That’s why the IC Realtime team wanted to compile some of the most common home security system questions we hear from our customers so you can fast-track your research and find the best solution for your security needs.
Ready? Let’s jump in:
The Top 5 Home Security Systems Questions
1. What are the main types of security systems?
While there are many different makes and models out there, home security systems generally can be organized into two types:
- Sensor event-based alert systems, such as burglar and fire alarms, which provide crucial notifications in response to specific triggering events, ensuring a rapid response in emergencies.
- Integrated security systems, including interactive security cameras, which offer real-time surveillance and remote access, allowing homeowners to stay connected and informed about their property's security at all times.
In both cases, security systems can be configured with "event tripwire" criteria that can trigger a notification to a property owner or monitoring center.
However, security systems with cameras allow users to verify the authenticity of an event, letting them see, hear, record, and in some cases interact with the location to prevent false alarms or thwart intruders earlier.
2. Who installs home security systems?
While DIY home security systems have become more commonplace, there are definitely some trade-offs. Because these models are designed with DIY buyers in mind, they prioritize ease of installation over including advanced features that allow your property to be more fully secured.
On the other hand, an integrated system with multiple cameras and additional functionality for control, redundancy, and storage can be installed by most alarm companies, audio/visual integrators, and home automation companies.
3. What should I look for in home security camera gear?
While there are many different makes and models out there, home security systems generally can be organized into two types:
- Sensor event-based alert systems, such as burglar and fire alarms, which provide crucial notifications in response to specific triggering events, ensuring a rapid response in emergencies.
- Integrated security systems, including interactive security cameras, which offer real-time surveillance and remote access, allowing homeowners to stay connected and informed about their property's security at all times.
In both cases, security systems can be configured with "event tripwire" criteria that can trigger a notification to a property owner or monitoring center.
3. What should I look for in home security camera gear?
While every property and use case is unique, there are several common elements that every buyer should include on their must-have list:
- A warranty that is backed by the manufacturer, proving their trust in their gear’s dependability.
- A factory-supported local installer with access to U.S.-based factory technicians for installation and configuration assistance.
- An 8-channel (at minimum) recorder that gives your system room to grow as your security needs expand, even if you don’t use all of the inputs initially.
4. What's the most cost-effective home security camera system?
The most cost-effective security camera system is an internet protocol (IP) camera that includes built-in wired and/or Wi-Fi network capability. This allows the security cameras to be used individually and accessed remotely. Some IP-based camera systems also have a built-in SD card or access to a cloud-based recording system.
These devices can also be managed through a network video recorder (NVR), a specialized digital recording device used to store and manage video footage from IP cameras and other network-connected video sources.
However, if you already have some legacy coax cameras, look for an IP/coax hybrid recorder that lets you keep using existing direct-connect coax cameras while adding newer IP cameras.
5. Do I need a permit for a home security system?
Every jurisdiction is different, so you’ll have to contact your local building or permitting office either online, in person, or by phone. If you lease your property or live in an HOA or a condo, there may be additional rules you need to follow.
While DIY cameras are designed for easy indoor self-installation, outdoor systems and commercial-grade cameras need an experienced home security system installer with the right licenses, experience, and tools to ensure your security systems are up to code.
Bringing It All Together
While there is no one-size-fits-all home security system solution, what is common across the most successful installations is choosing the right gear and installer.
No matter the size or scope of your security system needs, IC Realtime can curate the right mix of products backed with the longest limited warranties in the business and supported by our U.S.-based iCare support crews.
Ready to experience the peace of mind the IC Realtime video ecosystem can bring to your home or business? Then click the link below to find the dealer closest to you:
