The ability to control security system components from anywhere is one of the big draws of smart home technology. Smart home security systems use Wi-Fi connectivity and smartphone apps to give you control over your system no matter where you are.
This tech has been available to DIY enthusiasts for several years thanks to companies like Nest and Philips. Now, many major monitored home security providers are also getting on board, providing apps for easy monitoring and control.
Monitored Smart Home Security Systems
Major home security companies like Vivint, ADT, and Frontpoint offer apps that allow you to control their systems with your smartphone from any location. These apps vary in appearance and overall function, but in general they all allow you to do the same things:
- View security camera footage
- Arm and disarm your system
- Program smart thermostats
- Lock and unlock doors
- Control lighting
DIY Solutions
If you don’t want to go through a professional monitoring company, there are smart security components you can purchase and install on your own that offer smartphone control. Here are a few examples of the smart security components on the market today:
- Smart lighting—Lightbulbs you can turn on or off right from your smartphone.
- Smart cameras—Cameras you can monitor and control remotely.
- Smart door locks—Deadbolt replacements that can be locked and unlocked via an app.
- Smart doorbells—Doorbells that can send an alert to your phone when someone rings. They often contain cameras that can be monitored remotely as well.
- Smart thermostats—Thermostats that can be programmed or adjusted via smartphone apps.
The advantage of these solutions is that you can choose which elements you like best rather than being locked in to what a home security company provides. The main downside to this option is that you may have to use multiple apps to control the different elements you use.
Check out our Mobile Apps for Security Systems page for more information about how to remotely control your home security system.
