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If you want to set up and customize your home security system yourself, we recommend ADT Self Setup for its impressive cameras and monitoring service.
Updated September 30, 2024
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Remember the days when home security systems needed technicians to come out to your home and set them up? Thankfully, as technology has improved, now all you need is a stable Wi-Fi connection and a spare space on your mantle.
There are even DIY-friendly security companies specializing in this type of equipment. I took some of them for a spin to see which ones performed best based on ease of installation and total costs. ADT Self Setup took first place, not only because it took me about 45 minutes to install, but also because of the quality of the Google Nest product range.
That said, I was also really impressed by SimpliSafe and Cove. Keep reading as I compare these top DIY security systems.
We’ve found that the best way to make unbiased and trustworthy recommendations is by testing home security systems ourselves. That means buying the equipment, installing it in our homes, and testing it for weeks and sometimes months. It helps us get a feel for what it’s like to live with the security system and learn about its response times, apps, and features. We then use these experiences to make honest recommendations.
Multiple factors can impact testing home security systems, but we find ways to make like-for-like comparisons. For starters, we install and test all the security systems in one house – a two-story, 2,200-square-foot home owned by one of our home security experts. Using a real house instead of a lab means we can accurately assess real-life scenarios and make reliable recommendations.
We also buy the same devices for every home security system and install them in identical locations. You can see the places we regularly choose to set up equipment below.
We looked at multiple factors when choosing the best DIY home security systems. Drawing on our industry knowledge and experience, these are the factors we believe are the most important:
Using these criteria, here is how we arrived at our top five picks:
Rating the Best DIY Home Security Systems
We only cover security and safety equipment. You won’t find reviews on everything from ceiling fans to video game consoles like you would on other review websites. We focus on security and safety, and we’re experts at assessing security systems so our readers get insightful and detailed recommendations. The specialists who worked on this review were:
Our team has over 75 years of combined industry experience, making us the most accomplished home security team online. Since 2016, SafeHome.org has been featured in multiple major outlets, including The Washington Post and The New York Times. As a team, we have achieved:
| ADT Self Setup | SimpliSafe | Cove Security | Alder | Frontpoint | abode | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ranking | 1st | 2nd | 3rd | 4th | 5th | 6th |
| Rating | 8.6 | 9.2 | 8.8 | 8.8 | 8.7 | 8.0 |
| Contract length | Monthly | Monthly | Monthly | 36-months | Monthly or 36-months | Monthly |
| Subscription cost | From $29.99 per month | From $19.99 per month | From $17.99 per month | From $35 per month | From $49 per month | From $5.83 per month |
| Equipment cost | From $194.98 | From $249.96 | From $90 for hub and keypad | From $360 | From $79 | From $139.99 |
| Install time | 45 minutes | 25 minutes | 20 minutes | 35 minutes | 30 minutes | 15 minutes |
| Review | ADT Self Setup review | SimpliSafe review | Cove review | Alder review | Frontpoint review | abode review |
You’ll rarely hear ‘ADT’ and ‘DIY’ mentioned in the same breath – or at least that used to be the case until March of 2023 when ADT launched its Self Setup packages. It was everything I expected from an ADT security system, and then some.
For a couple of years now, ADT has been offering Google Nest Cams as part of its original, pro-installed systems. And surprisingly, ADT Self Setup came with those same Google cameras. I have more to say about these cameras in my Google Nest Cam review, but all in all, they are some of the smartest cameras I’ve tested. They all have person detection, facial recognition, and extremely insightful and detailed notifications.
The first thing I did after receiving my ADT Self Setup package was unpack everything. What immediately jumped out at me was the size and shape of the base station. It’s a rectangular tower about six inches tall and four inches at the base. It wasn’t going to fit in with my entertainment system where I originally intended to put it, nor would it look good there. Fortunately, I had some extra space next to my router.
Next, I downloaded the ADT+ app as instructed in the manual and entered my details. From there, it was just a matter of turning on the base station, connecting it to Wi-Fi using the app, and then turning on each individual component. I also had to download the Nest Home app and create an account for the Nest Cams, by the way. But don’t worry; you’ll be able to link your Nest account with ADT to view your cameras from the ADT+ app.
Pro Tip: If you don’t like Google Nest, but like everything else about ADT Self Setup, you can still get other options for cameras. Just reach out to their customer support, and they’ll help you find a camera that works for you.
All told, I spent about 45 minutes setting up ADT Self Setup. The component that needed the most time to install was the outdoor camera because I had to mount it on my exterior wall with screws. But overall, ADT Self Setup is a true DIY option from ADT.
>> Learn More: Where to Place Security Cameras
As you probably know, ADT’s pricing isn’t the most wallet-friendly, but ADT Self Setup is breaking that stigma. It is more budget-friendly than ADT for two reasons. Being a DIY system is the first reason. It doesn’t require an installation fee so that’s $99 saved instantly compared to the original ADT system. The second reason is the lower equipment cost. ADT Self Setup’s packages are somehow cheaper than ADT packages by a lot. Here’s a quick comparison:
| Packages | ADT Self Setup | ADT Pro Install |
|---|---|---|
| Build Your Own | $194.98 | $499 |
| Starter | $389.96 | $778 |
| Premium | $744.92 | $1,586 |
Not only are ADT Self Setup packages cheaper, they also come with almost the same number of components as their ADT Pro Install counterparts. That said, ADT Self Setup doesn’t offer financing options, so the package fee is going to come right out of your pocket. With ADT Pro Install, you can choose to finance your equipment.
Setting up the ADT Control Panel
Now, for monitoring, here’s a quick and easy rule of thumb to remember: If your ADT Self Setup includes security cameras, you’ll pay $45.99 per month for the Complete plan. Otherwise, you can choose the $29.99 Secure plan. That’s the same as what pro-installed ADT systems charge. However, ADT Self Setup allows self-monitoring, just like SimpliSafe.
| Monitoring Options | Professional or DIY |
|---|---|
| Installation | DIY |
| Smart Platform Integration | Alexa and Google Home |
| Equipment Cost | Packages starting at $499 |
| Monthly Monitoring Cost | From $29.99 |
| Contract Length | Monthly |
SimpliSafe was originally designed for renters, which is why it takes the top spot on my list of the best security options for apartments, but it’s since expanded its offerings to cover just about any dwelling you can imagine. Its equipment is all well-designed and extremely easy to install, which I’ll talk a little more about below.
SimpliSafe’s standout feature, at least in my opinion, is its new Fast Protect Monitoring. When coupled with one of its new Smart Alarm indoor cameras, a SimpliSafe technician will be able to monitor a live feed of your home in the event of an emergency and relay that information to authorities — and even speak to you while everything’s happening through the camera itself. This type of response is unique, and SimpliSafe is one of the few services out there I’ve seen offer anything like it.
Like I said above, when I reviewed SimpliSafe, I was pretty impressed with its equipment — especially the new stuff like the aforementioned Smart Alarm camera, its new carbon monoxide detector, and its improved motion detector. I had a bit of trouble connecting the keypad to the base station, but that’s actually my fault. I got a little overzealous and did things a bit out of order, which caused some problems. If you just download the app first and follow the on-screen instructions, you won’t run into any problems.
Pro Tip: A few of my devices, like the Wireless Indoor Camera, took about ten minutes to set up. It needed some time to connect to the Wi-Fi, and then it had to install a sizable firmware update. I went and made a coffee while it did its thing.
Like most DIY systems, SimpliSafe relies on command strips to affix most of the equipment — the motion sensors, the keypad, the contact sensors — to the wall. This is a bit of a double-edged sword, especially with the heavier pieces of equipment. I understand that being able to peel and stick stuff makes SimpliSafe one of the best security options for renters, but when it comes to permanence, it’s not my favorite solution. Luckily, most of the equipment did come with mounting brackets for folks who want to drill everything into the wall. Either way, I was done with my setup in about 25 minutes.
SimpliSafe Essentials Kit
Another big selling point of SimpliSafe is its affordability. I have more on this in my guide to SimpliSafe’s pricing, but the quick version is this: It offers several equipment packages and an option to build your own.
Keep in mind that SimpliSafe is almost always running a sale, so it’s rare that you’ll have to pay full price for one of its systems. At the time of this writing, it was offering 40 percent off any new system when you sign up for Fast Protect Monitoring.
Speaking of monitoring, there are several options. SimpliSafe offers a free self-monitoring option, which makes it one of the best no-fee systems out there, as well as regular monitoring for $19.99 per month and Fast Protect for $29.99 per month. Keep in mind that you won’t have to sign a contract with SimpliSafe, so if you ever want to adjust your level of service, you can.
Did You Know? If you want to interact with your security system using Alexa or Google, you’ll need the Fast Protect Plan. I usually ask Alexa to arm the system when I’m leaving, so I don’t need to worry about entering my pin number at the control panel or opening the app on my phone.
| Monitoring options | Professional and DIY |
|---|---|
| Installation | Professional and DIY |
| Smart platform integration | Alexa and Google Home |
| Equipment Cost | Packages starting at $249.96 |
| Monthly Monitoring Cost | From $9.99 |
| Contract Length | Monthly |
Hands down, Cove is one of the best affordable security systems out there. Notice I didn’t say “cheap.” Cheap implies a lack of quality, and that’s not Cove. This company is all about giving you the most bang for your buck.
Cove has been around since 2018, and it’s made quite a mark in the home security space. Not only is the setup lightning fast, all of its equipment is high-quality, durable, and designed with a modern touch. I also really appreciated its three-tiered response system.
Cove is one of the few systems that provide a physical manual to help you get set up, but there are really only four steps. Those are:
The second step — after setting up the panel — will walk you through placing all of your sensors and cameras, which can all be mounted with minimal headache. The majority of their equipment can be affixed using included command strips, while bigger pieces of equipment like outdoor cameras will require screws.
The Cove Control Panel during the setup process.
When I was reviewing Cove, I was able to get everything set up in about 20 minutes, start to finish. That said, I have the same complaint about Cove that I do about SimpliSafe: Sometimes the command strips didn’t feel secure, so I screwed some of the components into my walls and door frames. The last thing you want is to wake up at 2 a.m. with your heart racing because a sensor popped off the wall and tripped your alarm. Trust me; it’s happened to me.
Similar to Frontpoint and Alder, Cove does require professional monitoring, but it doesn’t require a long-term contract like Alder and ADT do — just month-to-month. Also, that professional monitoring costs less than half what it does with the other systems on the list. Cove’s basic monitoring plan is just $17.99 per month. Keep in mind that if you want mobile app control or smart home integrations, you’ll have to go for the premium plan — Cove Plus — which costs $27.99.
Did You Know? I also signed up for Cove Cloud+, which is $2.99 per month per camera. My other option was to buy a micro SD card from Amazon to store my videos locally.
If you’re in the market for a Smart-Home compatible security system, check out the next entry on the list or read my list of the best smart security systems in the industry today.
Regarding equipment costs, you’re going to find that Cove is extremely affordable. I have more on that in my guide to Cove’s prices.
It doesn’t offer any pre-made packages, instead asking customers to build out their own systems. I actually prefer this method because it ensures you’re going to get exactly what you need and nothing that you don’t.
In all, I paid about $300 for my Cove system. For context, the Frontpoint system was about $500, and the SimpliSafe System was about $600. If you’re looking for security on a budget, Cove should definitely be on your shortlist.
| Monitoring Options | Professional |
|---|---|
| Installation | Professional or DIY |
| Smart Platform Integration | Alexa and Google Home |
| Equipment Cost | From $90 for hub and keypad |
| Monthly Monitoring Cost | From $17.99 |
| Contract Length | 1 month |
When I put Alder to the test, I found that the system was essentially hassle-free. It works right out of the box and doesn’t require you to put any holes in your walls or potentially electrocute yourself when trying to install a security camera. Don’t ask me how I know.
Add to that a long list of features and exceptional design, and you’ve got a great option for a DIY home security system — especially if you’re looking for a solid security system with cameras. Alder’s cams are some of the best I’ve tested.
Alder offers a super-simple setup. I found its equipment to be really well designed, with a low profile and sleek, rounded edges. Everything can be mounted using command strips or some minor hardware installation — no need to get out the stud finder or hardwire anything. In all, it took me about 35 minutes to get everything up and running.
Did You Know? I recommend wiping the Control Panel screen down after setting it up. I used this great mode called “screen cleaning,” which turned off all the controls on the panel for 30 seconds so I could wipe off my greasy fingerprints. Nice touch, Alder!
One of the really cool things about Alder is that it doesn’t require a base station. Unlike SimpliSafe or Frontpoint, Alder’s keypad is the connection point for all of its equipment, meaning it pulls double duty. I really liked this approach and didn’t have to figure out a place to stash another piece of equipment. This is really handy because my partner is really particular about what can and can’t go on the mantel.
Unfortunately, my partner was not impressed with the Entry Sensors. They stood out like someone wearing bright orange Crocs to a wedding. In fairness, they are similar in size to Ring’s Entry Sensors, but Alders are bulkier. It’s the same for their entry sensor, which is so big it should have a range of 180 degrees. However, it’s only 90 degrees.
Alder’s Entry Sensor compared to Ring’s Entry Sensor.
Here’s where Alder loses more points with me. There is nothing transparent about its pricing on its website, and you have to call a customer service representative to build out your system. I have more on this in my guide to Alder’s prices. I’m a millennial. You know how much I hate picking up the phone.
That said, even though it’s a DIY system, you don’t have to pay any upfront equipment fees — it’s all built into your monthly contract. That’s right. You’ll have to sign a 36-month contract with Alder, but some people don’t mind the commitment when you can avoid a big equipment bill upfront, like what you might see with SimpliSafe. Keep in mind that your monitoring costs are going to be between $30 and $55 per month, so that’s something to consider when you’re factoring this system into your budget.
Did You Know? Alder has a 30-day money-back guarantee if you decide it’s not for you. In comparison, Cove and SimpliSafe offer 60 days, while ADT gives you six months.
If you’d rather not sign on the dotted line, you might head over to my list of the best no-contract security systems. You obviously won’t see Alder over there, but there are plenty of good options for commitment-averse folks.
| Equipment cost | Packages starting at $360 |
|---|---|
| Monitoring options | Professional |
| Monitoring cost | Starting at $35 per month |
| Contract length | 36 months |
| Installation options | Professional or DIY |
| Smart Platform Integration | Alexa and Google Home |
One of the best wireless security systems in the industry today, Frontpoint has always been a disrupter in this space. It was a pioneer of the DIY security movement along with Ring and SimpliSafe, and while it might not have the same name recognition as its competitors, you shouldn’t discount it.
From the time I unboxed my Frontpoint system, everything just made sense; everything just worked. At no point during my setup process was I confused, wondering where a piece of equipment should go or how it should be installed. Frontpoint has clearly taken a lot of time designing its systems with users in mind.
When comparing Frontpoint and SimpliSafe, you’ll see that Frontpoint offers a few more options for equipment compared to SimpliSafe. The major components are all there — the security cameras, the entryway sensors, the motion sensors — but Frontpoint also offers a few bells and whistles, like garage door tilt sensors and glass-break sensors. We’ll get more into that in the section below, but for now, let’s talk about what it was like to set up this system.
All my Frontpoint equipment ready to be set up.
In a word, easy. In two words, very easy. You can read more about this in my Frontpoint review, but everything is packaged thoughtfully, and the setup process is intuitive — whether this is your 100th DIY project or your first. Once you plug in the hub and download the app, you’ll be walked through step-by-step, detailed instructions on how to install everything.
There are two things I’d like to mention. First, Frontpoint’s hub is one of the most aesthetically pleasing pieces of security equipment I’ve used. It has a sleek, opalescent look that you won’t feel you immediately need to hide behind a houseplant. Functionally, it works using dual connections: Wi-Fi and cellular LTE, with the latter being the primary. This redundancy is to add increased dependability, which I really appreciate.
Pro Tip: Ok, there is one thing I don’t love about the Frontpoint Hub. At night, the green light glows so bright that it looks like you’re storing radioactive waste. Thankfully, I was able to jump into the app and schedule when to dim the brightness.
Second, Frontpoint has some of the best customer service for a security system. I ran into a bit of a hiccup when one of my entryway sensors wasn’t connecting to my hub, but after a quick call, everything was up and running — no wait times, no hassle of replacing equipment. In all, it took me a little over half an hour from boxes to a fully protected home.
Similar to SimpliSafe, Frontpoint offers a few security packages.
I do want to point out that you can pretty much ignore that regular price column. Frontpoint is always running a sale, so I’ve included the current discounted prices as well. While they might not be exactly the same when you’re shopping, they’ll be a lot closer to the sale price than the retail price.
I do want to point out that you can pretty much ignore the regular prices displayed on the website. Frontpoint is always running a sale, so that $400+ package that’s selling for $79 isn’t a limited-time deal. That’s pretty much what the package costs all year.
When it comes to monitoring, Frontpoint is a bit of an outlier. All of its systems are professionally monitored, with no option for self-monitoring. This is a pretty big drawback in my eyes. And, at $49.99 per month, it’s not exactly cheap. I would argue that it could be worth the investment for some folks since Frontpoint has some of the best professional monitoring in the industry.
Did You Know? The monthly monitoring cost also includes identity theft protection. So, if you’ve got a separate subscription, you might be able to save some cash by using Frontpoint instead.
| Equipment cost | Packages starting at $79 |
|---|---|
| Monitoring options | Professional |
| Monitoring cost | Starting at $49 per month |
| Contract lengths | Monthly or 36 months |
| Installation options | DIY |
| Smart platform integrations | Google Home, Alexa, and Siri |
One of the most technologically advanced systems I’ve ever tested, abode is a great option for folks looking for the ease of a DIY system with some of the futuristic flair of smart home automation.
While still keeping things affordable with a DIY setup, abode lets users integrate and control all sorts of third-party smart equipment into the network to add some security and a whole lot of convenience. When I was testing out this system, I used my Alexa to go into “at-home mode” every morning; I can turn on my lights and turn down the air conditioner just using my voice. For more information on that, check out my guide to the best Alexa home security systems.
Despite all of the high-tech bells and whistles, the core abode system is extremely easy to set up and install. Plug in your Gateway, connect it to your home internet network using the included Ethernet cable — don’t worry, this step is just for the setup; you can connect it to your Wi-Fi later — and download the app. The app will tell you step by step how to set up and install the other pieces of equipment you purchased, like your motion sensors and security cameras.
Pro Tip: There’s a tiny button on the back of the sensors you need to press before mounting. I accidentally skipped that step, so I had to unmount each sensor and push it to get the devices to connect properly. But it only set me back about five minutes.
The one drawback I found during this setup process was that the Gateway tends to make a lot of noise throughout the day, depending on how active your system is. Mine was always beeping and booping — so much so that I took to calling it R2-D2. It actually got a little annoying living with it day-to-day, but the good news is I was able to quiet him down by going into the system settings on my phone and selecting “Mute all sounds.” Easy enough!
The place in the app where you can mute all those annoying beeps.
Like I said above, abode keeps things affordable. While it’s not as cheap as Cove, it’s still squarely in the “reasonable” category.
Similar to Frontpoint, abode tends to keep its “regular” prices really high and always offer a sale. I’m not a huge fan of this sales tactic, but it’s not the worst thing either. At least you can see how much the packages cost on their websites, unlike Vivint that requires you to call to get a quote.
My test system cost me around $450 when all was said and done, but you might want to pick up some professional monitoring; that will run you $20 per month. Also, since its contracts are month-to-month, you can always change things up.
Pro Tip: I recommend using your 30-day free trial by subscribing to the Pro plan. If you find it’s not for you, it’s easy to switch to another tier or cancel it.
| Monitoring Options | Professional and DIY |
|---|---|
| Installation | DIY |
| Smart Platform Integration | Alexa, Google Home, and Apple HomeKit |
| Equipment Cost | From $139.99 |
| Monthly Monitoring Cost | From $6.99 |
| Contract Length | Month-to-month |
More and more, homeowners are thinking of home security as a must-have item. Our research shows:
Living in the U.S., where property crime is a worrisome trend, it's comforting to know you — or a professional — can watch over things 24/7. However, DIY installation of home security systems offers its own benefits. For many people, the investment in a home security system is only possible when they do not have to pay extensively for installation, as the best DIY home security options have shown. But why is it so beneficial? Here are a few key reasons most homeowners benefit immediately from these solutions:
Simply put, installing a system yourself keeps the costs low. Providers that require professional installation will often charge you $100 or more for that service, and oftentimes, these systems are permanently wired and installed. If you don't mind picking up a drill, you can save that money and also have the flexibility of being able to move your system with your family.
Many of the DIY home security systems are straightforward investments. Unlike the top professionally installed systems in the market, DIY security systems typically don't require long-term contracts. This can help to significantly reduce the overall cost. If the company does have a contract, it will typically be a month-to-month plan. This makes it easier for the homeowner to terminate the contract without expensive fees. It also allows you to switch systems or make changes as you would like to, keeping you in control of your home's security.
If you value flexibility, you really need to consider do-it-yourself options. After all, you may decide to change the location of a camera or upgrade to newer equipment down the road. Heck, that big book deal might hit, and you'll finally buy that condo down in Puerto Rico and retire. If that's the case, a DIY security system tends to be more convenient since equipment doesn't need complex hardwiring. If you don't want to jump into the deep end of home security quite yet, a DIY system with no contract is probably the best-case scenario for you.
From Anthony Travaglia, Retired Police Officer, Home Security Expert:
A wireless system is not only easier to install and less expensive than a wired system, it is also harder for criminals to defeat. With the old hardwired systems, a burglar could cut the power and phone line from the outside, causing the system to turn off. Now the systems run off Wi-Fi or cellular and are much harder for criminals to disable. Experienced burglars look for some kind of security system or cameras before they attempt to make entry into your home. So the harder it is for them to turn the system off, the better. Most criminals will think twice before making entry into a residence with a security system because they know police response time is quick, especially if the system is monitored by a professional monitoring company.
Having a home security system is the single most important thing you can do to protect your family and your property. But, as you know, choosing the right system can be time-consuming due to the number of options and the vast amount of data out there. That's why it's much easier to use a review website such as this one, where all the information has been compiled and broken down into easy-to-read bits of information.
Setting up the latest version of the SimpliSafe Motion Sensor.
Here are a few suggestions for choosing the right home security system for your particular situation.
How Easy Is It to Install?
The main reason people buy a DIY home security system is that they are generally easy to install. However, that's not the case with all of them. Therefore, be sure to review the installation instructions before deciding on which one you feel you can install yourself.
Does it come with customer and/or technical support?
Even though most DIY home security systems are easy to install, there is still a chance you might need to clarify something if an issue comes up that is unique to your installation. Therefore, it's important the brand you choose has a customer service and/or technical support department you can contact if you have a question.
Is the brand you've chosen reputable?
Before you make a purchase, be sure to review any company's equipment quality and reputation. You need to know if the equipment is going to hold up and if your chosen brand will stand behind its products if they should fail.
Everything I bought for my Cove home security system.
Yes, I realize you have probably already thought about this; however, if you don't spend some time comparing your options, you could end up not getting the most for your money. That's why it's so important that you take advantage of the side-by-side comparisons that can be found on reputable review websites. Being able to see all the most popular brands, their options, and pricing side-by-side is the best way to make sure you are getting the most for your money.
Well, that depends. If you are a renter, you will probably need to get your landlord's permission in writing before purchasing and installing an alarm system. Your landlord might have restrictions due to privacy issues and aesthetic concerns. So, be sure to ask first.
Yes, in most cases. A lot of insurance companies will offer up to a 20 percent discount on their homeowners insurance policies if you install a security system, regardless of whether or not it's a DIY system. However, the discount will probably be less if you skip the monitoring.
There isn't a right or wrong answer to this question. It really depends on your particular situation. So, it's best to look over the pros and cons of each, as well as review the side-by-side brand comparisons, your available tools, skill set, and budget to determine which route is best for you.
Most wireless DIY home security systems communicate via a cellular connection and have a backup battery, which means you won't lose your security system if the power goes out.
It depends on what kind of wireless system you have. If your system is Wi-Fi only, it won't work if your internet connection fails. However, if it uses a cellular signal as a backup, it will work if your internet goes down.
The best wireless DIY security systems offer the same benefits as hardwired systems. Here are the essential features and extras to consider.
Several DIY wireless home security systems include a quality control panel. This feature lets you arm and disarm the system, and it often has a panic button if you need to connect with an emergency operator. Certain control panels offer live-voice assist, and others have modern touch screens that put your home security and home automation controls in one sleek device.
The best DIY home security systems truly excel when it comes to entry sensors. These magnetic sensors are placed on door frames and windows. When the system is active and the magnets separate, the alarm sounds, and you will likely receive an alert. DIY systems come with easy-to-install (velcro or command-strip mounted!) entry sensors. You'll have them up in no time flat.
Chances are your DIY security system will bundle in motion detectors. These infrared devices are simple to set up and work around the clock to monitor the inside of your home. The moment one of them senses movement, the alarm sounds and alerts are sent. And don't worry about your dog tripping the sensor. Most devices are smart enough to distinguish between pets and people.
Burglars break windows. It's in their nature. So, it's important to outfit your home with glass-break sensors. The sensors have built-in microphones that listen to the sound frequency of breaking glass. When a sensor detects glass breaking, it sounds the alarm and sends an alert. This DIY feature is often sold as an upgrade, but it's worth it. Don't pass on glass-break sensors.
Panic buttons are another top feature of DIY home security systems. Users can strategically mount these around their home. Put them in the bathroom, the kitchen, or the garage — and don't miss a beat when a break-in occurs. Panic buttons are especially helpful for seniors who live alone and often come built in to control panels, keychain fobs, and necklace pendants.
DIY home protection from a keychain? It almost sounds too good to be true. But a remote control puts your security commands on a tiny remote, perfect for a keychain. Arm and disarm the system, hit the panic button, and simply enjoy the controls that fit in your pocket or purse. It's the 21st century, after all, and we'd expect nothing less.
DIY wireless home security systems almost always offer mobile access — an impressive feature powered by a companion app. Simply log in to the app to access your controls. You can arm and disarm the system, monitor activity, view live camera feeds, and even control home automation features. What's not to love about mobile access?
The best DIY home security systems are compatible with home automation features. We're talking about everyday household features — like heating and cooling, lights, and door locks — now made possible to control with your smartphone (and, in some cases, your voice!). Often, these features fit seamlessly into your wireless home protection ecosystem. Your life just got a whole lot easier.
It's no secret that hardwired home security systems have their limitations. Lines can be cut, and power can go out. But today's best DIY alarm systems are powered by cellular monitoring. They get their juice from a cellular signal (similar to your phone), which just about guarantees around-the-clock, uninterrupted protection. Get 24/7 home security the modern way — only with cellular monitoring.
