The worldwide residential security market is set to exceed $13 billion by 2027, increasing at a 24.58% annual growth rate. With the total smart home count reaching 258.54 million, it’s obvious that people have started to recognize the significance of smart home security systems and no longer view residential safety as a luxury.
As surveys indicate, modern customers are eager to invest in smart security systems, including residential ones, and will pay higher rents for intelligent homes.
This blog will cover how a smart home security system works, list its must-have features, and look at examples of popular home security apps. We’ll start with defining a smart protection system for home and move on to its advantages.
What is a home security system?
An intelligent residential security system is a network of devices that operate in sync with each other to provide advanced household protection and monitoring.
The core components of such a network include the following:
1. Access limitation tools
Intelligent locks enable homeowners to lock and unlock their doors remotely using their smartphone or voice commands. The most innovative locks feature fingerprint scanners, which are way safer than traditional code and password locks.
2. Activity detectors
Modern households use sensors capturing motion, glass breaks, door, and window openings as well as smoke or harmful substances and emissions. These sensors track unusual activity and changes in the surroundings and report them to residents.
3. Surveillance
Video surveillance is also an integral part of a strong residential security network. Indoor and/or outdoor cameras monitor the building, record footage, and allow users to watch live video feeds from their phones or computers.
4. Audible sirens
Another traditional part of a security system is a sound alarm. Modern home surveillance tools use audible sirens or chimes to warn dwellers and deter intruders.
5. Voice assistants
Some intelligent home protection platforms integrate popular voice assistants allowing owners to operate them with voice commands.
6. Monitoring service
Many intelligent household protection systems feature a professional monitoring service capable of alerting the authorities if a break-in or another urgent situation occurs.
7. Emergency buttons
These are physical or virtual devices that allow residents to instantly summon emergency assistance in the event of a crisis or threat. Panic buttons are designed to provide a rapid response to potentially dangerous situations, such as a break-in, medical emergency, or any other threatening circumstance.
8. Control panel/hub
The control panel connects all the other network components in one central node and manages them. It acts as a centralized hub for enabling and disabling the system, managing smart home appliances, and receiving notifications.
The integration of these units creates a solution that can be customized according to the resident’s preferences and provide complete protection.
Smart home security: Key operation principles
How does a smart home security system work? Household security networks include numerous intelligent devices that connect to a central management panel. The latter connects to the Web, which enables owners to track it through an app and operate it remotely when necessary.
For example, if a sensor in your apartment is activated, your phone receives a signal. A security app will ask you to take action or disable an alarm.
Smart home platforms leverage innovative tech to detect and respond to possible threats in real-time. They can also work in sync with other smart devices to provide an all-inclusive home automation and security solution.
The pros of a residential security system
Smart systems for residential security outperform ordinary ones in several ways. Residents can rest assured their property is safe when guarded by an intelligent protection network. Users can also check up on it anytime, remotely.
More specifically, the benefits include the following:
Remote tracking and management
Modern security networks are managed via remote control. Residents can also talk to visitors or give instructions to domestic personnel in a remote mode.
Instant notifications
If anything deviates from the norm, users get instant alerts through home security mobile apps. A homeowner, for instance, will get timely notifications about a turned-on electrical appliance, tap leaks, or an unexpected visitor.
Valid security calls only
Dealing with false alarms can be daunting. If an emergency squad is tasked to secure a home, owners may actually be charged a hefty sum for a false security call. With intelligent smart home systems, false alarms are no longer an issue.
Intruder prevention
A notification that the smart household protection system is in place acts as a perfect shield from burglars and intruders. Most criminals hoping for quick and easy access will be easily deterred by an intelligent home protection system.
Difficult to disable
It’s also quite difficult for perpetrators to disable a residential security network by simply cutting off the cord. Such platforms use wireless technology and can’t be easily put out of action.
Financially justified
Apart from having your property protected and secured, a good digital security system can actually get better insurance packages for real estate owners, thus making it a wise investment.
Comprehensive protection, real-time monitoring, financial benefits and great usability are making smart home security apps and systems a popular choice for today’s tech-savvy owners of residential property. In the next section, we will look at examples of some popular home security mobile apps and systems.
6 Real-life examples of top systems and apps for residential security
The apps and systems for all-inclusive residential protection are showing an impressive adoption rate. According to Statista.net, 21.4% of all global households will have such solutions in place by 2025. Some home security mobile apps, however, are more popular than others.
Below, we have listed the best home security system apps according to app store users.
1. SimpliSafe
A home security mobile application for a namesake household protection platform that enables residents to manage their security appliances using phones and tablets.
The software sends notifications about alarm events or other activities and enables users to view live feeds from cameras. The app also features customization, managing access and permissions, viewing logs, and tracking the history of events.
2. Vivint
Another app for managing a residential security platform. Users can perform various functions such as activating or turning off their system, viewing live video feeds from surveillance cameras, and managing appliances and energy consumption.
What sets it apart from similar home security mobile apps is the convenient interface and the compatibility with popular thermostat brands, and other domestic devices.
3. XFINITY Home App
The software is intended for XFINITY residential security customers. The software allows them to remotely manage their domestic systems and interconnected appliances. The key features include motion and entry alerts, live surveillance, home automation management, and history logs.
The features may vary depending on the specific package and devices chosen by the client. The app is compatible with devices from an extensive list of manufacturers such as Zen, Nest, and Sengled Element.
4. ADT Pulse
A mobile app with extended remote control functionality. Although the software’s main focus is protection, it can also manage other appliances and home automation systems. For instance, users can control and schedule heating, cooling, and lighting for energy efficiency.
The app provides a convenient environment for viewing feeds from the surveillance cameras, reviewing event logs and sensor check-ups. Users can also set up custom notifications and alerts based on pre-defined triggers.
5. Alarm.com
A platform that integrates security, home automation, surveillance and energy management. Alarm.com combines a range of functionalities and systems that can be managed through a website or a mobile app.
The platform also integrates with professional tracking services by authorized security dealers and is capable of sending emergency squads if necessary.
These top smart security systems provide a complete and thorough approach to residential safety and automation, providing users with enhanced control, convenience, and confidence.
In the next section, we will list the typical smart residential security capabilities that you should consider if you aim to create a home security mobile app.
Looking to develop a home security app?
By building a home security app, we at Eastern Peak can help you introduce your innovative ideas for smart home, address specific customers’ needs, and differentiate you from competitors.
Key features of a home security mobile app
Creating a mobile app comes as an integral part of building a residential security system. The feature set will differ depending on the solution’s functionality and components, however, some features are the absolute must-have.
Also, if you want your app to work with most of the available smart domestic devices, consider introducing the basic feature set.
Remote operation
Your security mobile app should allow users to access and manage their security network remotely. This includes features like arming and disarming the system, operating intelligent devices, and adjusting settings from anywhere with an internet connection.
Timely alerts
The app should send real-time notifications to users’ mobile devices for various events, such as safety breaches, motion detection, door/window openings, or alarm triggers. Users should receive alerts promptly, and be able to take immediate action if needed.
Live surveillance
A home security app should provide live video streaming from surveillance cameras located outside and inside the property. Homeowners should be able to view camera feeds in real-time, switch between different cameras, and have the option for two-way audio communication if the cameras support it.
Event history and video playback
The app should store event history logs, including timestamps and details of past security events. Additionally, it should allow users to access recorded video footage from cameras for playback, enabling them to review specific incidents or events.
Geofencing
Geofencing is a useful feature that allows users to define virtual boundaries or zones. The app should support geofencing capabilities, enabling users to receive automatic notifications or trigger specific actions based on their location, such as entering or leaving the specified zone.
Personalization and set up
Best smart home security systems should offer customization options to meet individual preferences. Customers should be able to tweak settings, schedules, and rules according to their specific requirements. This may include setting up different modes (e.g., home, away, sleep), adjusting notification preferences, or creating automation rules.
User and access management
The security mobile app should allow users to add and remove user accounts, assign different levels of access and permissions, and the ability to set up temporary or guest access for individuals such as family members, friends, or service providers.
Integration
Integration with other tools and platforms enhances the overall functionality and convenience of the residential protection system. The app should support integration with compatible devices, enabling users to manage multiple smart home features from a single interface.
System health and status tracking
The app should provide information on the health and status of the system’s units. This includes tracking battery levels, connectivity status, and any potential issues or malfunctions. Users should be alerted to low battery levels or connectivity problems that may impact the platform’s effectiveness.
Support and help resources
The best smart home security system apps should include support and help resources, such as FAQs, tutorials, troubleshooting guides, or direct contact with customer support. This ensures that users can easily find assistance if they encounter any issues or have questions about the app or their security system.
By incorporating these core features, home security system software can provide users with convenient and efficient control over their smart protection network, ensuring a seamless and user-friendly experience.
Summing up: Building a home security system
In years to come, smart home technology will continue to impact our everyday lives. Intelligent domestic devices are likely to become even more interconnected, allowing for seamless communication between various devices and platforms.
AI-powered assistants and algorithms will continue to enhance connected home automation through personalization, learning individual preferences and adapting to residents’ needs.
The demand for smart home automation is increasing, and there are still plenty of untapped opportunities for entrepreneurs to introduce new and unique smart home development services. By building a home security app, businesses can introduce their innovative ideas, address specific customers’ needs, and differentiate themselves from competitors.
Looking for a tech partner to help you create smart home security applications? Contact us now for a free consultation!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a smart home security system?
A network of interconnected devices constructed to enhance the safety of a residential property. It merges traditional residential security components with advanced automation and connectivity features enabled through the Internet of Things (IoT) technology.
What is an example of smart home security?
A domestic network including interconnected appliances like surveillance tools, audible sirens, detectors and sensors, locks, and a central control hub operated through dedicated mobile software, is an example of smart residential security in action.
What are the benefits of smart security for your home?
Enhanced protection, remote monitoring, increased awareness, video evidence, and integration with intelligent devices and tools. Insurance benefits, confidence, and professional protection from criminals are other indisputable advantages.
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About the author:
Oleg Roberman, Chief of Delivery at Eastern Peak
With strong technical background and outstanding project leadership skills, Oleg helps Eastern Peak customers introduce competitive advantages and instill productive changes in every process by resolving complex business issues and managing multicultural teams through innovation and creative thinking.
