Taking the time to consider all the modern home automation and security devices now on the market can lead to a mind-blowing experience. Compared with what was available to our parents and grandparents, today’s technologies are simply astounding. So much so that a modern integrated smart security system blows first-generation home security out of the water.
A Definition of Integrated Smart Security
Before we get into all the implications of integrated smart security, it is important to define what it is. Integrated smart security is home security that fully integrates with smart home features. A quick comparison makes things clear enough:
- Traditional Home Security – Traditional home security uses devices like window and door sensors, motion detectors, and video cameras to monitor for potential property crimes. Smoke, carbon monoxide, and water can also be monitored.
- Integrated Smart Security – Integrated smart security also includes home automation devices leveraged for security purposes. Automated lighting is a perfect example. Strategic lighting can be an effective deterrent against crime.
Integrating security with home automation is easier thanks to brands developing and selling both types of equipment. Take Vivint Home Security. They are one of the leading security providers in America, but their systems can be equipped with a range of range of home automation devices as well.
On the other hand, you have companies like Google and Amazon. Their home automation ecosystems can be integrated with security cameras, smart locks, and other security devices.
The Benefits of Integration
The big question for many homeowners is whether integrated smart security is worth the investment. Is it better to go fully integrated or simply purchase a basic home security system and leave it at that? Every homeowner needs to decide that for himself based on needs, preferences, and budget. But here are the benefits of integration:
- Customized Routines – Home automation encourages custom routines. For example, you could create a custom routine that mimics how you use your lighting when you are home. Run the routine while you’re on vacation. You’ll make your home appear occupied.
- Geolocation Capabilities – Leveraging geolocation capabilities can make a home more secure in several ways. For example, equip your front door with a smart lock and your garage door with a smart sensor, and you can ensure that both automatically lock while you are driving away to work in the morning.
- Remote Monitoring – In the old days, it was difficult to monitor your own home security cameras without an expensive setup. But thanks to home automation, anyone can monitor their home cameras from anywhere in the world using a smartphone.
- Remote Access – Hand-in-hand with being able to monitor video feeds remotely is remote access to one’s entire system. Unlock your front door remotely to allow guests inside. Turn lights on and off by speaking to your smartphone. The possibilities are endless.
Of course, there are tradeoffs. Integrated smart security introduces cybersecurity risks. So a homeowner needs to know how to harden his home network against intrusion. There is also the matter of relying exclusively on electronic technology to stay safe. When the power goes out, then what?
A New Age of Home Security
Whether integrated smart security is a good deal, it is hard to argue against the fact that we have entered a new age of home security thanks to smart home technology. We can do a lot more with our homes in the 21st century compared to what our parents and grandparents could do. For me, integrated smart security makes sense. If it’s not your thing, that is good too.
